As January ushers in a new year, many find ourselves looking around their homes and wondering where to begin. Organization is not a one-and-done process. After decades of collecting and not throwing things away, decluttering and organizing might seem daunting. This year consider a systematic approach, getting organized can be manageable and rewarding.
Set A Goal
It is hard to get to the finish line if you have not set a goal to reach for.
Remember why you want to get organized. Maybe you are thinking about downsizing? Or your drawers and inbox are overflowing? Or maybe you do not want to trip on the piles on the floor.
Once you have set your goal, break it down into small tasks. Be sure to set aside regular time to make it happen.
The Art of Letting Go
Consider implementing the “one-in-one-out” rule: remove one existing item for every new item that enters your home. This simple practice helps maintain order and prevents clutter from accumulating.
As you sort and organize ask yourself three questions: Have I used this in the past year? Does it hold genuine sentimental value? Would someone else benefit more from this item?
Creating Sustainable Systems
Organization isn’t just about decluttering—it’s about creating systems that work for your lifestyle. Place frequently used items at quickly accessible heights to prevent stretching or bending. Use clear containers to store similar items together, and label everything clearly. How do you sort and save your mail, medical and vital documents?
Document Management is Critical
Important papers require special attention. Create a filing system with marked folders for medical records, insurance policies, banking information, and emergency contacts. Store these in a waterproof, fireproof box, and ensure family members know their location. Keep a separate folder for time-sensitive documents like bills and upcoming appointments. Consider scanning essential documents as digital backups.
Embrace Digital Organization
In today’s digital world, virtual clutter can be just as overwhelming as a physical mess. Set up a simple folder system on your computer for emails, photographs, and documents. Create specific folders for family photos, important emails, and digital documents. Scan your important documents: such as Advance Directives, Living Will, and Power of Attorney so you have them at your finger tips.
The Joy of Photo Organization
Organizing family photographs can become a meaningful project. Sort photos by decade or special events, and consider giving them to friends or family. You can also create digital albums that can be easily shared with family members. This process often sparks wonderful memories and creates opportunities to share stories with younger generations.
Continue the Momentum
Once you’ve established your organization systems, maintaining them becomes crucial. Set aside time regularly to keep things tidy. Remember that organization is an ongoing process, not a one-time event.
Organizing can be tough. Think about finding an organizing buddy. Spend one hour today at your home organizing together and then spend time at their home doing the same thing. Remember you can also bring in a professional to help,
Getting organized isn’t about achieving perfection—it’s about creating a comfortable, safe, and manageable living space that enhances your daily life. As you embark on this organizational journey, remember to celebrate small victories and be patient with yourself. The result will be a more peaceful home environment and the satisfaction of knowing you’ve created order from chaos.
Jill Wisehart, Life Transition Specialist
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