Whether you're trying to declutter, streamline your morning routine, manage a busy
household, or simply find a little more time for yourself, building a few organizing skills can make everyday tasks feel less overwhelming. These five organizing skills are worth taking on, practicing, and refining.
1. Decluttering RegularlyDecluttering is the bedrock of organizing. Getting better at this skill doesn’t mean you have to overhaul your whole space at once. Instead, focus on small decluttering skills
each day.
One skill is the “one thing in, two things out” approach to make decluttering a habit. For every one new item you bring into your home, bid farewell to two things you currently have.
Here's another: Pick a drawer or a small corner each week and clear out what you no longer need. A little at a time, and soon enough, you’ll notice your space feels lighter and easier to manage.
2. Creating Systems that Stick
At its core, a system is simply a method or process you follow to accomplish a task consistently and efficiently.
Whether it’s sorting mail as soon as it comes in or designating a spot for your keys, a good system eliminates guesswork and reduces stress by creating a clear and reliable way to manage everyday responsibilities.
3. Staying
Consistent with Routine Maintenance
Organizing is about creating order. Maintaining it is about keeping that order. The best way to get and stay organized is to make small efforts every day.
For instance, set a time each evening to put away stray items, deal with the day’s mail, or wipe down counters. It doesn’t have to be perfect, but a quick tidy-up each day goes a long way.
4. Learning to Prioritize
We all have tasks lingering on our to-do lists, but not everything on that list is urgent—or even necessary. Sometimes, it’s about re-evaluating what truly needs to be done right now and letting go of what can wait.
For example, instead of tackling a deep-clean of the bathroom on a night when you’re already
exhausted, consider tidying up the kitchen or packing tomorrow’s lunches—tasks that will make your next day easier. The deep-clean can wait for a time when you’re feeling more refreshed and have the energy to focus on it.
When you prioritize the tasks that genuinely make an impact, you’ll not only get more done but also feel a stronger
sense of accomplishment—without the overwhelm.
5. Letting Go of Perfection
It’s easy to get caught up in thinking that organizing means everything has to be perfect, but that’s not the case. Embrace the idea of “good enough.” Your space
doesn’t need to be magazine-ready; it just needs to work for you.
Maybe there’s a basement closet that includes bins that aren't color-coded, but everything is clearly labeled. That’s perfectly fine.
Bottom line...working on these skills takes time, but it’s well worth it. Start small, go at your own pace, and remember that every little effort counts.
