I've read many, MANY books on organization over the years, in an attempt to bring myself sanity. Or something. I've found that they all have their methods, but the basics boil down to the following:
1. Like goes with like.
The spices should be in one cabinet.
The measuring cups and spoons all in one place. All the instruction
manuals should live together in harmony. And so forth.
2. Real Estate--location, location,
location.
Frequently used items should be the
easiest to get to. Moderately used items should be moderately easy to
get to. Rarely used items should be on top shelves, in attics, in the
back of closets, etc. Sometimes this takes a little evaluation, but
it makes for a more efficient home.
3. When in doubt, toss it out (don't
hoard it!).
If you're unsure about how useful an
item is, box it up and put it away for six months to a year. If you
don't use it, you probably don't need it, but maybe someone else
could.
4. Be flexible, be firm--do your
maintenance.
If a location or a system isn't
working, take the time to evaluate it and think of ways to improve
it. Don't be afraid to change it, BUT don't ignore it.
5. Communication.
LABEL EVERYTHING. Then no one has an
excuse for putting things in the wrong place.
Also:
Set goals--take care of your
organizing in small chunks at a time. It's very easy to get
overwhelmed.
Pace yourself--be content with
achieving a little bit. A little bit is better than none at all.
Get rid of stuff--as you sort through a room, have three boxes labeled Keep, Toss, Give Away. Sometimes I'll add a To Be Fixed box, but that's it. Everything should fit into those categories. If you're undecided, go back to Rule #3.
And last, but never least:
Take a moment to enjoy your
accomplishment!
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