When it comes to making New Year’s resolutions, getting organized and staying organized tops many people’s lists. It’s no wonder why; belongings tend to pile up throughout the year as things are accumulated. By the end of the year, drawers are stuffed, closets are packed and the cars are parked in the driveway. It can be overwhelming but taking back control of the clutter is simple when you look at the big picture. As a rule of thumb, there is no limit to how many times you can break down a big task into smaller components. By checking off each smaller component from your to-do list, you’ll gain the confidence and momentum to keep going. By using these three tips when planning your New Year’s resolutions, you’ll be able to get organized and stay organized all year long.
Where to Start?
The first step to organizing your home in the new year is to figure out which area is most in need of improvement. Ask yourself which room is most often cluttered, disorganized or just generally an eye sore. Is it the garage? The closets in the kid’s room? The cabinets in the kitchen? Once you decide which area needs the most attention, you’ve established where to start your home organization.
Stay Focused
Setting a New Year’s resolution to get organized can seem like a monstrous task if you look at everything that needs to be done. Instead, break your organization into bite-size chunks. If your resolution is to finally turn the master closet into a functional, well-organized space, pare it down into a few separate steps:
Step 1: Sort items into keep, throw and donate piles. Place the items you use most often front and center in your closet. Less frequently worn items can be stored on the top shelves, in the corner space or in another closet.
Step 2: Separate and arrange shoes on adjustable-height shoe shelves. If you need to store larger items or have long-term storage needs, consider using clear or heavy-duty storage totes. These containers are great because they are super sturdy and the lid helps keep out unwanted dust and bugs when storing in areas like a closet, laundry room or garage.
Set a Timeframe
Another way to break down your big resolutions into digestible portions is to use time to your advantage. Instead of saying you’re going to attack the entire garage or laundry room right now, commit yourself to one hour of decluttering the cabinets. Next week, you can tackle clearing space for the car, and the following week can be spent clearing wall space to add more shelving. Set your timer and go!
For the month of January, Karstens’ Ace Hardware is featuring the following storage totes in our ad:
7½ Qt. Latching Storage Tote
#6165849
$3.99, Sale- $2.99
15½ Qt. Latching Storage Tote
#6165195
$6.99, Sale- $5.99
31 Qt. Latching Storage Tote
#6162309
$9.99, Sale- $7.99
64 Qt. Latching Storage Tote
#6161087
$11.99, Sale- $8.99
112 Qt. Latching Storage Tote
#6164123
$16.99, Sale- $15.99
27 Gallon Heavy Duty Storage Tote
#6502629
$14.99, Sale- $10.99
DIY Corner brought to you by Karstensace.com