People traditionally write resolutions at the start of a new year. These lists usually include a goal for personal improvement, like fitness or home organization. While well-intentioned, many of these projects do not get completed.
People get distracted by other tasks, overwhelmed by what they set out to do, or simply lose steam. If one of your new year's resolutions is to organize your home, here are a few things that could help.
Declutter Before Buying Storage Solutions
One of the biggest mistakes people make when tidying their closets is rushing out to buy storage boxes before decluttering. If you get clear containers or stackable boxes without clearing out unwanted items from your cabinets, you will only move your clutter around or put them in containers. In the end, you might have even more things to get rid of, especially if you buy organizers that turn out to be unsuitable for your needs.
Always declutter before buying an organizer. If you do, you'll get a container that is the appropriate size. You will also be more likely to get rid of items that you might keep "for another time" if you did things the other way around. If you'd ever attempted to clear out your closet, you know that this is highly likely! So, make a clean break with items that you don't need and trim down your pile of belongings to start.
Follow "One In, Two Out" When Buying Items
Get rid of two things every time you add an item to your shelf or your closet. When you don't regularly edit your closet or shelves, you are bound to increase the number of items in your home. If you practice one in, two out regularly, you'll get better at it, and you won't have more than what you need at any given time. Seek help from a home organization consultant if you want to learn how to do this consistently.
Have A Donation Box Ready When You Declutter
When you're tidying up your home, keep a box within eyesight so you can put the donation pile straight in. If you keep your Donate pile in one corner of your home, you will be less likely to move it out later. Give yourself momentum by adding to the donation pile as you declutter. Once you have finished sorting, you should have all the items you wish to donate in the same box (or boxes). Then, take it to a donation drop-off as soon as possible. If you don't, you're also giving yourself more time to take things out of the boxes and keep them.
Review And Declutter As Often As Necessary
Finally, do not wait until the start of a new year to declutter your home. You can take items out of storage or decide to donate no matter the time of the year. This is an excellent quarterly or even monthly practice. Frequent decluttering keeps your closets organized and prompts you to keep your resolution of having an organized environment.
Your home is the place you spend the most time, so it will naturally accumulate belongings. Organizing your home will help you get in the right headspace. Aside from being a great way to start the year, an organized home is a great way to honor your activities and give them the right space.
Partner with Rescue My Space if you need help in organizing your home. We are home organization consultants in Houston, TX, and we help declutter everything from pantries to bathrooms, bedrooms, garages, and more. Browse our portfolio or contact us today for details.