Organizing your home

 I’ve written a workbook ebook; it will soon be going for a final edit before a possible printing. My focus is on adapting the home for life changes and is not heavy on the organizing side.

However, each individual and each family unit will face different challenges.

Our society (at least American) has pushed the idea that “more is better.” However, I'm afraid I have to disagree. In part, this mindset leads to disorganization.

One needs a vision of what the home's finished version should be to meet one’s expectations.

Things within a home need a contained designated space. Limits or maximums need to be set for each type of item.

When organizing, you need to contain the necessary “accumulation” to achieve organization.

Collections can easily get out of hand—these are as varied as individuals.

Peter Walsh urged people always to consider where you would display or use something before you bought it. I consider that statement to be a game-changer.

Shoes, purses, hats, tee shirts, belts, vests, coats, sweaters, costumes, jewelry, makeup are all things that can quickly become overwhelmingly abundant.

Toys, books, sentimental objects of art and framed pictures can quickly cover all open spaces.

Work tools and kitchen appliances can quickly expand to needing additional space for storage.

Then, there is paperwork—I thought computers were supposed to reduce the consumption of paper. There is a constant need to separate, shred, and file various hard copies of bills and documents. These documents are prioritized before fun magazines, trade magazines and reports, pictures, and sentimental cards.

You also need to include maintaining a digital filing system for documents and email, pictures, and interests.

I’ve taken several organization classes, participated in various decluttering events, and can tell you that organizing must become and remain an ongoing living method. One must change one’s habits, adopt a new way of keeping the home clean, and organized. If not, one goes back to the same disorganized way of doing things.

Personally, I start with the kitchen when cleaning—after all, it is the heart of the home.

Next- the bathroom needs to be clean and usable—it is a necessary room (in more than one way.)

The living room is the first room company visits—you do not want to be perceived as a slob, so this room must be cleaned and maintained.

The bedroom—my oasis (and castle) is the place where I relax.

The computer area—where the paperwork gets done, and bills are paid. Not to mention the primary contact with others when we cannot leave our homes.

Timing is everything. You will not get anything done if you do not set aside a block of time and a date to organize things—and do not forget the maintenance aspect of keeping an area organized. Most projects will take longer than you think. You need to set small goals that lead to completing larger tasks. This will result in an ongoing series of daily things.

As for having help when organizing, many hands lighten the load—but only if they help positively. Seek help for what needs to be done—especially if it is not your area of expertise.