Taking the plunge to get organized can be a daunting, but incredibly rewarding task. Staying organized requires functioning systems and habits. If you live with others who don’t share your passion for this life changing journey you’ll quickly find yourself frustrated and burnt out. So how do you get your family involved with organization? Here are 5 tips to get started:
1. Have THE family talk
Your family wants you to be happy and in a healthy head space, at least they should (if not that’s another talk altogether). Try calling a family meeting to discuss why you want to be organized and how it helps you all. A simple talk can go a long way towards getting everyone on the same page. Also, take this opportunity to share ideas so that you can best meet everyone’s needs and capabilities.
2. Micro vs Macro Sorting
Much like one size does not fit all, not everyone organizes in the same way. Your brain may crave micro sorting – sorting and storing like items to minute detail. But others may function better in a macro sorted environment with items grouped in broader categories. Some also might need to be able to see things, while others prefer out of sight. In a household with multiple people, you may find multiple organization types. Get to know how each individual functions best and see where you can meet in the middle.
3. Collection Basket Method
The collection basket method is great for families with young children and others who tend to stop and drop. A collection basket is a place to temporarily gather items before returning them to their homes. The basket can fit in with your decor and is easily carried around the house to return things where they belong. If you re-home each evening it can be a quick clean up task for whole the family.
4. Location, location, location
Choosing the right location to store specific items is half the battle. Keeping things where they are used most will cut down on finding things scattered about. For example, if toys are stored in a bedroom but played with in the family room, you’ll constantly battle toy clutter. While toys in the family room might not be your ideal decor, it’s a better solution than the continual struggle of moving toys back and forth.
5. Organization Routines
Finally, routines are the core of clutter-free habits. The more you stick with them, the easier they become (and the less whining is involved). Try setting a timer every night for 15 minutes and see how much your family can pick up. Create an after dinner clean up check-list that has to been completed before you all can sit down and watch your favorite show. Or try selecting a specific day(s) of the week to do laundry. These scheduled tasks will quickly form into habits to help keep your home effortlessly organized.
As I always say, an organized home is a happy home! I hope these tips help get your family involved with organization. For more home organization ideas check out these tips for organizing seasonal gear and hand-me-downs.
For your pinning pleasure:
