Staying organized is one of the challenges in daily life. And while some are certainly more into organization than others, we can all make an effort to stay on top of things. Yay us! Even when life gets busy, here are some common organizational mistakes you can avoid. If you can keep from letting these things happen, you should be in pretty good shape. Let’s go!
1. Buying “Organizers”
If you’re buying stuff that’s supposed to keep you organized, those things will likely end up turning into extra clutter. You might buy a set of shelves or boxes to help you feel better about your organization, but chances are, you already have what you need. You just need to go through the process of pulling things together. Do that first, then see if you need anything else to hold different things.
2. The Junk Drawer
Get rid of the junk drawer? Yeah right! Well, it’s true. Think of your junk drawer. Isn’t there a logical place for all that stuff, and you just haven’t taken the time to put it away (or throw it away)? That drawer could be used for so many other things. Decide to get rid of what you don’t need, and put everything else in its proper place. You’ll feel better — promise!
3. Thinking Your House is Too Small
Don’t have room in your house to exercise, have a home office, or entertain? Hogwash! You probably don’t need a bigger house, or a remodel, or that wall removed. What you do need is to organize your rooms into what makes sense for how you live. Need office space? Okay, decide if you really need that huge dining room table or hutch. Could you put a desk there or use the table as a workspace Monday-Friday? Go room by room and decide if you’re using each one for the right purpose for you.
4. The Mail Pile
Don’t let mail pile up. Sort it as soon as you get it. Put the junk in the recycle bin where it belongs before you even bring it inside. Then, create a space in your desk or get a wall file for the stuff that’s actually important. And as soon as bills are paid, file the ones you need to keep and shred or recycle the rest. As with most things, daily upkeep is the key. And did you know you can opt out of a lot of junk mail?
5. You Love a Freebie
It’s really hard to resist free stuff, isn’t it? Well, guess what? Nothing is free! Even if you don’t end up paying for it with money somehow, you WILL end up paying in the form of free space that isn’t free anymore. See? There’s always a string attached. Free samples, free gifts…whatever it is, you probably don’t need it. Just say no!
6. Taking Big Bites
When starting an organizing venture, don’t bite of more than you can chew. Begin with small steps (like the mail). Let those habits take hold before moving onto something else. Trying to do everything all at once usually backfires — and only ends up making a mess. You don’t need a perfect overall plan — just start small and see where it takes you.
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