If the thought of cleaning out your purse, never mind a closet or the garage, makes you want to RUN in the opposite direction and play hours of solitaire on the computer or watch a "Petticoat Junction" marathon on t.v., here are some simple steps to get you started in almost any space.
Before you begin, be clear about your purpose for the space. Is it going to hold cleaning supplies, winter coats, ex husbands? (Anecdote: I have a friend who is very clear about the purpose of her handbag, which contains: grooming and make up center, first aid station, wardrobe malfunction emergency kit, supplies and tools for possible mechanical breakdown, various record keeping items: address, phone number, calendars, lists of various sorts, financial necessities and hydration and nutrition items. All perfectly organized).
Allow yourself roughly twice the amount of time you think this project will take. Hurrying is the enemy of organization!
EXHIBIT A (photo from houndrat.com)
Take EVERYTHING out of the space. As you take it out, you can sort into 4 separate piles or bins.
Bin #1: I can't use it and neither can anyone else--toss! Be ruthless! I know you don't want to put extra stuff into landfills, and you shouldn't. Resolve that in the future, you will be mindful of that when you're considering a purchase. But also consider whether you want it hanging around your house for the rest of your life, only to go right into the landfill anyway once you are gone.
Bin #2: I don't use it, love it, or need it, but someone else might--donate. (Warning: be careful of putting things aside to give to someone else. Those items have a way of sticking around for a LONG time and sometimes forever!)
Bin #3: I use it, love it, or need it, but it doesn't belong in this space. You don't have to figure out where it will go right this minute....this bin can be put aside to deal with later.
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| (photo: Jeri's Organizing & Decluttering News) |
Bin #4: I use it, love it, or need it and it belongs in this space. Keep in mind the purpose you've given the space, and the amount of space available.
Now you can put the stuff from Bin #4 back into the space in an orderly way. Group similar items together, and use bins or labels as needed. Throw the items from Bin #1 in the garbage, box or bag items from Bin #2 to donate, and find homes for the items in Bin #3 (this could be a separate project). Dust off your hands and give yourself a big pat on the back.
You deserve it! And remember, if you need help, your friendly home organizer is always ready!
For solutions to your organizing challenges,
to schedule a free consultation,
or have a conversation about your organizing needs:
Call Linda Palmer
262-784-3957
262-784-3957
at Create Order
Home Organizing and De-materializing Service
on the web: createorder.org
email: createorder1@gmail.com
facebook: Linda Palmer/Create Order Organizing Service
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