"Success doesn't come from what you do occasionally, it comes from what you do consistently." -- Marie Forleo
Forleo’s words of wisdom hold a valuable lesson for us when it comes to decluttering and staying organized. While a one-time decluttering session can be satisfying, true success lies in maintaining consistency. Here’s how you can make a real, lasting difference in your home by embracing small, regular habits.
The Myth of the Big Clean
Many of us think that a massive decluttering session is the answer. We block off a weekend to tackle the mess, hoping it will solve our problems for good.
While these sessions can create a noticeable change, they often don’t last. Clutter starts to creep back in, leaving us feeling frustrated and defeated.
The Secret is in the
Routine
The real key to staying organized is consistency. It’s the little things we do every day that make the biggest difference. By integrating small, manageable habits into our daily routines, we can keep our spaces organized without feeling overwhelmed.
Simple Daily Habits
1. The One to Two-Minute Rule: If something takes a minute or two to do, do it right away. Hang up your coat, put away your shoes, or sort today’s mail. These tiny tasks prevent small messes from becoming big ones.
2. Designate a Place for Everything: Make sure everything in your home has a designated spot. This makes it easier to put things away quickly and reduces the chance of losing items.
3. Evening Tidy-Up: Spend a few minutes each evening tidying up. Clear off countertops, put away stray items, and prep for the next day. Waking up to a tidy home sets a positive tone for the day ahead.
5. Mindful Shopping: Be intentional with your purchases. Before buying something, ask yourself if you really need it and where it will go in your home. This helps prevent clutter from accumulating in the first place.
The Benefits of an Organized Home
Consistency in decluttering and organizing doesn’t just lead to a tidy home—it can also improve your overall well-being. An organized space reduces stress, boosts productivity, and creates a sense
of calm. When you maintain order in your home, it often extends to other areas of your life...helping you feel more in control and less overwhelmed.
Overcoming Challenges
Maintaining consistency can be tough, especially with a busy
schedule. But remember, the goal isn’t perfection.
Focus on making progress and sticking with your habits as best you can. If you fall behind, just pick up where you left off and keep going. Remember, it’s not about the big, occasional efforts, but the consistent,
everyday actions that make the real difference.
