Does Anyone Have the Time?

It won’t come as a surprise to many of you but I could spend an entire article on the upsides of being organized - less stress, always knowing where your keys are, being able to put your belongings away faster, etc.  And yes, your daily routine will thank you. However, even I, Maureen Fallon, champion of all things organization, lover of the Container Store can concede that there is one downside, a small one, but the biggest excuse everyone uses - TIME.  You gain time at the end of your organizing journey because you give time at the beginning. Although, who are we kidding, there really is no end to the organizing journey… but I digress. I will admit that this is the hardest part of this entire process - making a substantial time commitment to getting your house/life in order.  

It has occurred to me that there’s no better time to dip your toe in this process than summer. It’s nice to feel lighter in the summer. I suggest  starting small, one area at a time, and perhaps one area per week.  Be very honest with yourself when deciding what goes and what stays.  Have big bags ready for the things you can donate* and another that is not appropriate to donate but can be sent to a textile recycling place*.  Here is a small list of items that can be easily removed from your home without too much fuss:

YOUR CLOSET:

Shoes that you haven’t worn in a long time, and most likely won’t in the future

Handbags that you haven’t used in a long time

Old underwear, pjs, t-shirts and bathing suits

LINEN CLOSET / BATHROOM:

Towels that are frayed

Sheets that you no longer use

Make up that is old, especially the free samples we all hold on to

Meds that are past their expiration date

YOUR KIDS CLOSET:

Clothes that no longer fit 

Clothes that they really don’t like and will not wear

Shoes that no longer fit

Socks that are missing a pair (if they haven’t showed up by now, they never will)

THE REFRIGERATOR:

Anything that has passed its expiration date

KITCHEN CUBARDS/PANTRY:

Anything that has passed its expiration date

Anything that was bought and no one wants to eat it

THE OFFICE: 

Old mail (I would suggest shredding anything personal)

Magazines that have passed their prime

Past emails on your computer (this can be done while watching TV some evening)

BOOKSHELVES:

Adult and children books that have been read and not going to be read again

Textbooks (these cannot be donated but can go into your recycling)

Books that are damaged or ripped that you no longer need or want (also recycling)

Sometimes having a list and sticking to it makes the whole process easier. These are just a few suggestions that will hopefully give you that wonderful feeling of satisfaction, and maybe even the desire to do more.  Please do not get overwhelmed.  Schedule a block of time each week and maybe involve your family so they can get on the less clutter bandwagon too.  This list is all very doable, and will  put you in good shape when Fall rolls around.  Who knows, maybe by then you will want to tackle even bigger projects like the basement or garage?!

If you have questions or need any assistance, contact Living Simple at livingsimple.info.  We help make organizing easy for stress free living!

*   Donations of children clothing, books or textile recycling are accepted at 914 Cares

*   Donations of adult clothing, books, and household items are accepted at Greendrop