Next week we’re having a “Get Organized” week in our office. It’s a time to clean up our workspaces and get rid of old documents. Personally, I can’t wait to throw all the old documents in my file cabinets into the shredder, it’s time to let them go!
Clutter has a way of creeping into our homes, workplaces, schedules, and even our minds, often without us realizing it. One day your desk is clear and your calendar is manageable, and the next you’re overwhelmed and feeling like you’re always playing catch-up.
Getting organized isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating simple practices you can maintain in your everyday life. With the right approach, organization can reduce stress, save time, and help you feel more in control.
I’d love to hear about some of the ways you stay organized! Share your tips in the comment section below.
Simple tips
I came across a list of organizing tips from realsimple.com and, to me, they seemed to be attainable and not overwhelming, so I wanted to share a few of them with you.
Set a Timer – Set a timer and then begin whatever organizing task you’ve been procrastinating.
Take 10 Before Bed – Spend 10 minutes doing a task before getting ready for bed.
Create an Everyday Caddy – In a caddy, put only the items you use each morning to get ready. This will reduce those little decisions and save time.
Toss Junk Mail at the Door – Add a bin next to your front door and immediately toss junk mail and other unnecessary stuff.
Follow the One In, One Out Rule – If you bring in something new, get rid of something old.
Make Some Labels – Using clear, durable labels takes your organization system to the next level.
Just Get Started – Break a giant to-do list into more manageable tasks; focus on one area to start.
Tools that can help
Practical tools can help you create routines that make staying organized easier.
📦Physical Storage Solutions – these items help keep physical belongings in order and reduce clutter:
Containers and Bins: Airtight containers for pantry items, stackable bins for general storage.
Drawer Organizers: Inserts to help compartmentalize kitchen utensils, office supplies, socks, etc.
Shelving Units and Carts: Rolling carts, over-the-toilet organizers, blanket ladders, etc.
Hanging Organizers: Wall-mounted racks for mops and brooms.
Bags and Pouches: Packing cubes for travel, cosmetic bags, and small zipper pouches.
🗓️Planning and Documentation Tools – these products focus on organizing time, tasks, and information:
Planners and Calendars: Physical daily or weekly planners and desk calendars.
Note-Taking Tools: Notebooks, sticky notes, and smartphone apps.
Filing Systems: Binders, folders, and cabinets to keep physical documents and paperwork in order.
Labels and Label Makers: To clearly mark the contents of containers, files, or drawers.
📱Digital and Productivity Aids – technology can be used for organization:
Smartphones and Apps: Built-in tools like reminders and email filters help manage daily life and communication.
Software and Platforms: Digital tools such as spreadsheets, collaborative calendars, and project management software.
Gadgets: Products like e-readers to reduce physical book clutter.
NCP Panel Members: Please remember to scan any items you buy to help with your organizing tasks. These might include some of the items listed above and more.
Getting organized doesn’t happen all at once, and it doesn’t have to look the same for everyone. The goal is creating routines that make daily life easier and more enjoyable. Start small and focus on what works for you.
Regards,
Taylor
More from NCP
Start Small, Stay Organized
Squeaky Clean Facts
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I make small daily goals so by the end of the week 1 I will have a major job finished.
Love the tips. Especially the one in and one out. That has kept my closet less cluttered. It alway stop me from buying the same garment twice.
Leaving a comment for Taylor just wanted to say Hi. I love this app I have used it for a few years I’ve recommended it to a few of my friends who also use it now. 🙂 just read the new notifications on the app and was recommended to leave a comment for Taylor. I think I’m the first one I don’t see anyone else doing it but I could be wrong. I’m at the max C-score which is the all-star one I think. That’s how much I like this application. Dedicated user for life. Best application ever. Have a good day, thank you for your time in reading this comment. 🙂 God Bless.
Love these tips! Definitely going to try the Timer technique ASAP! Thank you 😀
Hi I will defuse the one in. One out. So need to get things organized in my home
I group like items together and give them a home. Looking for a pair of scissors? They are in the scissor box in the office or the knife drawer (they cut) in the kitchen! I am an organizer by nature. I drive others, who shop with me, crazy because I am always cleaning up as I shop! When I am in other people’s homes I really have to sit on my hands so I won’t start organizing. Dr’ s offices, banks etc … you will catch me straightened up the pamphlets. My late husband learned to become an organizer and now living with my sisters they tolerate me!
I set a time frame to purge and organize. Main goal work on one area. It is easy when putting up the things to keep to change area organizing. When I stick to the area I started with I see the improvement quickly.
Recently had old forms of family movies and CD’s of photos converted to flash drives. Reduced clutter and preserved memories.