Adios Chaos

 

Chaos - a total lack of organization or order

Wow! Don’t we all have a little bit of CHAOS in our homes? From a whole room full of it, to just a closet. There is a feeling of “ughhhh” every time you see it, and the overwhelming thought of “I just can’t get organized”.

I am here to tell you that YOU can do it! One of the easiest things for me to do is throw stuff away. I have no hesitation or second thoughts. I actually enjoy throwing things away. I do a happy dance and everything. lol But I realize that there are a lot of people that just can’t let go of things.

If you have a desire to get organized, I have a few personal tips that you can use. In a few steps you can be well on your way to having a chaos-free home.

1. Get rid of extras

De-clutter before you organize. Start with a BIG trash bag and lots of patience. I admit it can feel overwhelming at first, but just take a deep breath; then take your time. If it helps, do a little bit everyday. No need to try to tackle it all at once.

Ask yourself these two questions to determine if you should keep an item.

1. Do I really, really LOVE this?

2. Do I really NEED this?

If your answer is no, or maybe, then get rid of it! Take it to Goodwill, have a yard sale or just throw it away.

We tend to keep all kinds of stuff thinking that “one day” we are going to use it or need it, and we end up with piles of unused clutter. At the end of the day, we can’t find anything. Months or years go by and we don’t even know what we have. So, I say if you didn’t even remember you had it, and you lived fine without it, then let it go. Of course, there are sentimental items that don‘t fit any criteria, such as pictures, special memories, your kids’ school art, cards, etc. If it’s very special to you, then it should stay.

2. Organize and Store

Everything must have a place. Start by separating your things and categorizing them, then decide how and where to store them in a place which is practical for you. You can use things that you already have at home, such as plastic containers, drawers, a flower pot , tin cans, mason jars or shoe boxes! Use labels to help you remember where everything goes. Utilize your shed, attic or garage for the long-term storage items that do not need to be kept handy.

Remember, it doesn’t have to be flawless; just make it your personal preference. The only right way to organize is how you want it. Different people have different styles and needs. Do what works for you!!

3. Maintain/Prevent

When you are finished, look around. Enjoy the “Oh, it’s finally done, and I am feeling so good about myself” moment. Cherish it, and don’t forget it.

It’s really easy to let things get out of hand, again. So stick with it, maintain the order, try your best to put those scissors back in the drawer, and promise yourself to try not to keep every empty box, sale paper, etc.

Strive to make it your routine to always put things back where they belong. And remember… you don’t need to keep EVERYTHING!

I hope these tips can help you. If you have any tips that you can share, feel free to comment!