by April Welch, The Mental Clutter Coach
Looking for the elusive How To Organize tips?
Yup, it's that time of year.
Unfortunately, it's also about that time of the month where most good intentions have fallen back into life as usual.
Don't worry, I've got tips to help re-energize your motivation!
All week, over on The Mental Clutter Coach, I've been talking about those catch-all spots in our homes :: the entryway, the stairs and the wonderful hallway.
I've also walked you through what's going on with that amazing pile of clothes you always end up with at the end of the day - week - month.
There's even a visual how to organize piece on hangers ... go check it out, I'll wait.
Back? Okay, good.
With the first week of January all about the spaces you see first thing and the second week all about where you land I thought I would give you a few ideas on how to organize that dining room table and chairs that seem to always attract the most fantastic clutter!
How to Organize :: Dining Room Table
In most situations, the dining room table is either a place for meals and conversations or a flat surface that aids in the fluid chaos of a household.
If you're still reading, I'm guessing you're one of the fluid chaos folks.
Truth is, once you get in the habit of 'dumping' stuff on the table - it's REALLY hard to stop.
Setting limitations on yourself rarely works. However, finding a way to redirect the habit can help.
- Consider
- when you're about to put something on the table, ask "does this actually belong somewhere else?"
- then determine, "why am I not putting it there?"
- Don't worry if you discover you're dumping on the table because you don't know where to put something ... that's the part that makes it a catch-all.
When you have a focused effort to declutter you'll begin to flush out the habits that contribute.
How to Organize :: Dining Room Chairs
Inevitably, if your table is a catch-all your chairs might be as well. The good news? It's a much smaller space to declutter.
Working on one chair at a time can be highly rewarding and give you a needed boost to keep it up.
- pick a chair
- grab things that belong somewhere
- put them away
- move onto the next chair
Worried about the leftovers? Then take a few minutes to evaluate their purpose.
- why do I have this?
- when will I need this again?
- where does it make sense to put it?
Getting stuck is all part of the process, working through the answers is the path to the solution.
Are you a fan of the VolunteerSpot Facebook Page? Join me for a conversation, I'd love to see some before and after photos, if you're up for it!
What "how to organize" tips have changed your life?
Keepin it Tidy,
April
April is a Mental Clutter Expert | Mom of 2 boys | Wife to 1 Fireman | Horrible Cook | Loyal Friend | National Public Speaker who gives you permission to be imperfect