“Get Sorted” Tips
Wondering how to begin your organizing project? A plan of action helps to achieve the best results. Remember these “Sorted” helpful tips:
sort
Sort through everything. Start in one area of your home at a time, say the kitchen, then go cabinet by cabinet, drawer by drawer, and pull everything out.
At this stage, start to identify what you use and what you don’t. You’ll recognize you don’t need five vegetable peelers or perhaps the wooden spoons have seen better days. By pulling everything out, it’s easier to make these determinations because you can actually see what’s been hibernating behind those cabinets for so long.
organize
Organize everything. After sorting, organize what you are keeping into similar categories. Keeping like with like helps keep everything contained and identifiable.
This is also a good time to note what organizational tools you may need to tailor your space. For example, maybe drawer organizers would help keep the junk drawer tidy? As you organize, trust your gut on your decision-making, don’t second guess. There is a reason you haven’t worn that coat in over five years!
reduce
Reduce as much as you can. Ask yourself, do I really need this? When’s the last time I used/wore it? Try to avoid talking yourself out of eliminating things you don’t need with the “I may need it someday” justification.
Clutter is an accumulation of too much, period. In order to create an organized and tranquil space, you will need to reduce the amount of stuff. If you are having a hard time deciding, create a “six-month” box. Place items in the box, mark the date and store them away. When six months is up (and you haven’t touched the box), take it straight to donation.
tailor
Tailor a new system that suits you. Remember, organizing is not about perfection.
What makes sense? If everyone dumps their shoes near the front door, perhaps placing a shoe storage cabinet near the front door will reduce “shoe dumping”? Tailor your space to suit the needs of you and your family.
execute
Execute…now is the time to put everything away into the new system. Also, communicate to everyone in the home that this new system will go into effect for everyone to follow.
donate
Donate everything that didn’t make the cut. Take donations directly to your car and drive your donations to your charity of choice. If you allow donation bags/boxes to pile up in the hall closet or garage, chances are they will stay there.
