The 10 most common organizing mistakes
Organizing your space can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. In my experience organizing, I have seen many clients experience common mistakes when they want to get organized. I wanted to share these with you and give you suggestions on how you can avoid making these mistakes.
#1: Not having a plan or not putting it on your schedule
Going into an organizing project without a clear plan can lead to frustration and disorganization. Before you start, take some time to determine what needs to be organized, what resources you will need, and how you plan to tackle the project. It also helps you stay accountable if you actually put this block of time into your calendar. Even if you prefer to organize in smaller blocks of time, put it on your calendar! Just make sure to give yourself enough time to start AND finish a project in the time you have allocated. And remember, it will always take longer than you think, so start with smaller projects!
#2: Not decluttering first
Trying to organize clutter is like trying to paint a wall while you still have pictures hanging. Sure, you can paint around the pictures, but you really just created more problems for yourself. The same is true for organizing before getting rid of things you don’t need. Organizing is actually the second step, decluttering is the first thing you need to plan to do. Get rid of anything that is no longer useful, doesn’t fit, or is broken.
#3: Buying pretty bins as a way to motivate you to organize
This works as well as buying cute workout clothes to help you go to the gym more, it just doesn’t really work. When you buy bins and other organizing supplies before you have decluttered and thought of the systems you want to put in place, you end up with a bunch of expensive plastic products that don’t work and then become MORE clutter.
#4: Not having a system
Once you have decluttered and made a plan, it’s important to have a system in place for organizing. This could be as simple as using appropriate baskets or bins to group like items together, or as complex as implementing a color-coded labeling system. This also needs to be a system that everyone in your household can follow.
#5: Not maintaining the system
Even the best organizing system will fail if it’s not maintained. Make sure to regularly clean and organize your space to keep it clutter-free. If you have a system in place but it’s not working, then it is ok to come up with a new system. Sometimes we have to try things on to see what fits our needs.
#6: Not utilizing vertical space
Often, people forget to use the space above their heads. Utilize vertical space by installing shelves or hanging organizers to maximize storage space. Not everything has to be stored on a flat surface at eye level and below. There is so much potential for storage above our heads, but we don’t often think to use that space.
#7: Not storing items where they are used
While it is nice to keep “like things with like things”, there are times it is more important to keep things stored where you use them, even if you use them in more than one spot in your home. Take cleaning supplies for example. Sure, you can keep them all in a hall closet, but it is better to keep some in the kitchen and some in the bathroom. Otherwise, what will happen is that all those items will eventually migrate to where they are actually used and then there won’t be an intentional place to store them, so they become clutter!
#8: Not letting go of sentimental items
This is a difficult one for sure. It’s understandable to want to hold onto items that have sentimental value, but it’s important to remember that memories are in our minds, not in our possessions. Keep only the items that truly bring you joy and let go of the rest. Or maybe your grandma hand knit you 20 sweaters that you don’t really wear, but you want to keep. Try holding on to only 1 or 2 of them that you enjoy the most and then donate the rest.
#9: Not taking breaks
Organizing can be physically and mentally exhausting. Make sure to take breaks and give yourself time to recharge. You’ll be more productive and efficient if you take care of yourself. Also keep in mind that stopping completely will decrease your motivation, so make sure your breaks are short enough to give you enough time to finish what you started!
#10: Doing it alone
Tackling large organizing projects on your own can be super overwhelming. Enlist the help of your family and friends, or even hire a professional organizer to help you! Not only will you get more work done in the allocated time, but you will be able to keep your energy going because you have someone there to help you make decisions and come up with creative systems and ideas. This is especially helpful if you have ADHD and need help getting through the tedious task of organizing!
By avoiding these common organizing mistakes, you’ll be able to create a space that is functional, efficient, and enjoyable to be in. Remember, organizing is a process, not a one-time event. Stick to your plan, maintain your system, and you’ll reap the benefits of a well-organized space. And if you need help, reach out!
Happy Sprucing!
