How I Finally Managed to Organize My Home
Hey there, fellow supermoms! If you’re like me, your house probably looks like a tornado hit it, and you’re wondering if there’s a secret to living in organized bliss. Well, guess what? I’ve been there, done that, and now my home is actually organized (cue applause). Let me share how I transformed my chaotic mess into something that even Marie Kondo would give a high-five to. Here’s how I did it, and how you can too—even if you’re drowning in dishes and laundry.
1. Plan Like a Pro (Even If You Feel Like a Hot Mess)
Draw Up a Game Plan
I started by assessing my disaster zones (a.k.a. every room in the house). I made a list of the biggest culprits—kitchen, playroom, and that mysterious black hole in the back of the closet. I then tackled them one by one, because trying to do it all at once was like trying to eat a cake with a fork made of spaghetti.
Set Tiny Goals
Instead of aiming to organize the entire house in one heroic weekend (spoiler: it’s impossible), I set small goals. Think “one room at a time” or even “one drawer at a time.”
2. Declutter Like a Boss
Embrace the 10-Minute Miracle
I started with a magical 10-minute decluttering session. I set a timer and spent just 10 minutes a day purging. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in such a short time, and it turns out that time really does fly when you’re tossing out expired condiments.
The Four-Box Strategy
I got four boxes: “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.” I went through everything like a ruthless queen. Items I couldn't imagine using again went straight into the “Trash” box, and things that still had life left got a new home in the “Donate” box.
3. Get Creative with Storage Solutions
Go Vertical or Go Home
I started using wall space and the backs of doors more effectively. Shelves and hooks on the backs of doors meant less stuff cluttering up countertops and floors. I even installed a coat rack on the foot of the bunk beds for the endless parade of tiny jackets that enter my house. The vertical space became my new best friend!
4. Create a Daily Routine
Incorporate Cleaning Habits
I made it a habit to tidy up as I went along. Little things like putting away toys as part of the bedtime routine or doing a quick wipe down of the kitchen made a huge difference. Think of it as tiny cleaning victories throughout the day!
5. Get the Family Involved (Because It Takes a Village)
Assign Chores to the Mini-Me’s
I started giving my kids age-appropriate chores. Yes, even toddlers can be trained to put away their toys. Make it easy for them by creating a place for every category of toy. All the cars in one place, blocks in another, Paw Patrol in another and etc.
Use a Family Calendar
I use a family calendar that has sections for each family member to keep track of everyone’s schedules. The true power of this is the ability to pencil in easy age-appropriate chores for each child that fits with their schedules. The unique layout of The Motivated Mom Planner is perfect for this with the customizable sections for each kid.
6. Leverage Organizational Tools (Because Who Doesn’t Love Gadgets?)
Label Everything
I labeled bins, drawers, and shelves like a mad scientist. Now everyone knows exactly where to find stuff and, the best part, where to put things when cleaning up. It’s also incredibly satisfying to see labels neatly affixed to places that were once chaos zones.
Conclusion
So there you have it, my fellow overwhelmed moms! Organizing your home doesn’t have to be a Herculean task. By breaking things down into manageable pieces, involving the family, and using clever storage solutions, you can turn your home into an organized haven. Remember, even on the busiest days, a little bit of effort goes a long way. Now, go forth and conquer your clutter—I believe in you!