Ever wonder if you’re actually making progress on your organizing journey? It’s easy to feel
stuck. But the truth is, if you’ve put in any effort at all, you have made progress. Some days it happens in small steps, and other times in big leaps. Either way, the keyword here is progress.
If you’re not sure how far you’ve come, here are a few unmistakable signs that you’re living in (or moving toward) an organized
home.
1. You can tell someone where something is...and they actually find it: Gone are the days of muttering, “It’s in here somewhere…” If you’ve ever directed a family member or guest to grab something, and they found it without you having to step in, that’s a sure sign of good organization. It means you’ve given your
items consistent homes...and that’s a huge win.
2. Tax season no longer requires a search party: No one likes doing taxes, but when you’ve been keeping paperwork in one well-labeled file all year, preparing is easy. Whether you handle your taxes yourself or bring them to a pro, all you have to do is grab the folder and
go. That’s what an organized home looks like.
3. You know what’s for dinner without staring blankly into the fridge: Remember when “What should I make?” was a nightly stressor? In an organized home, you either have a meal plan in place or at least a working knowledge of what’s in your pantry and freezer. No more
relying on memory or last-minute takeout. Planning ahead just feels better.
4. Everyone knows where to be and when: Whether you have kids at home, grandkids visiting, or it’s just you and your calendar, keeping a central schedule saves so much stress. No more mix-ups, missed appointments, or showing up on the wrong
day. In an organized home, the calendar runs the show in a good way.
5. You can entertain without a scramble: Yes, “entertain” and “minimal prep” can go in the same sentence. When your serving pieces, menus, and essentials are in place, you can welcome guests with a smile instead of a stress headache. You might even
enjoy the evening!
6. Surprise visitors don’t send you into a panic: There was a time when a knock at the door meant ducking behind the furniture. In an organized home, things may not be perfect, but they’re tidy enough to welcome friends in without fear. CHAOS (Can’t Have Anyone Over Syndrome) doesn’t live here
anymore.
7. Cleaning fits into little pockets of time: You don’t need a full weekend to get things back in order. A few minutes here, a quick tidy there...and the house stays manageable. With systems in place, even cleaning becomes a lighter lift.
8. Flat surfaces are actually flat and clear: In an organized home, counters, tables, and other surfaces are not holding piles of paper, clothes, or randomness. You have systems for mail, recycling, and filing, so your space stays open and functional.
9. You can walk through your house in the dark without injury: It sounds funny, but when everything is in its place, there’s no need to tiptoe or turn on every light. You’re not bumping into baskets, shoes, or rogue toys. You could practically navigate blindfolded (though I don’t recommend trying!).
10. You have time for the things that fill your cup: Hobbies, reading, gardening, crafting, relaxing...whatever recharges you. An organized home frees up your time and mental energy so you can actually enjoy these activities without guilt or clutter getting in the way.
11. Your
family can be out the door in under an hour: When backpacks are packed, permission slips are signed, clothes are laid out, and lunches are made the night before, mornings feel smoother. You’re not racing the clock or digging for missing shoes. It’s a team effort, and your systems make it possible.
12. You don’t buy
duplicates...or triplicates: You know what you own and where it lives. That means no more buying another bag of rice, another black cardigan, or another flashlight because the original is “somewhere.” In an organized home, you can find what you need when you need it.
13. Grocery day doesn’t turn into an all-afternoon
event: An organized pantry means putting groceries away is quick and painless. You know where everything goes, and there’s room for it. No more clearing space just to make space.
14. Late fees are a thing of the past: In an organized home, borrowed books and items that need to be returned all have a
home...usually near the door. A simple basket or tote makes grabbing and returning them easy, so due dates aren’t missed.
15. Getting dressed isn’t a workout or a guessing game: Your closet is neat, your drawers aren’t overflowing, and your clothes are sorted in a way that works for you. Getting dressed in the morning,
or planning an outfit the night before. is a smooth process. No more flinging clothes around or feeling like you have “nothing to wear.”
If even a few of these are true for you, you're well on your way. And if you need a little or a lot more help, check out my
I'm Finally Organized Toolkit!
On another note...
Check out my new, carefully curated list:
Smart, simple tools for handling paperwork, filing, computer tasks, and keeping your workspace at home (desk, home office area, kitchen work station) organized!
