Do you ever feel defeated before you even get started? Do you catch yourself listing all the
reasons why you can’t get organized? You’re not alone.
We’ve all been there. Most of us have leaned on those same excuses at one point or another. But here’s the truth: for every excuse, there’s a gentle solution that can help you move
forward.
If you’re ready to make progress, let’s tackle some of the most common excuses together...and replace them with steps that really work.
1. “There’s just too
much stuff!” Clutter can feel overwhelming, but the simplest answer is still the best: let some of it go. Donate, sell, share, recycle, or toss what you don’t need. Every bag or box that leaves your home lightens your load and creates space for what truly matters. Check out my Goodbye Clutter resource for help! 2. “I don’t know where to start.” Start anywhere. Truly. Choose one room, one drawer, even one shelf. To give yourself a clearer roadmap, jot down a master list of everything you’d like to
do in your home. Then pull just one or two small tasks from that list each week. Little by little, those small wins add up.
3. “I just don’t have time.” You don’t need hours to make progress. Five minutes spent clearing off a counter or organizing a stack of papers makes a difference. Consistent short bursts are far
more powerful (and sustainable) than waiting for a perfect free afternoon that never comes.
4. “I want to get it all done now.” We all wish for that magic wand. But remember, your home didn’t become cluttered overnight, and it won’t transform overnight either. Schedule organizing time the way you would any important
appointment. Bit by bit, you’ll begin to see results that last.
5. “I don’t know how to go about getting organized.” That’s okay. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. You've got me and all of my resources...and probably some organized friends and family members too that would be willing to help. Just know
that you already have the ability to make progress, one step at a time.
6. “My spouse won’t toss anything.” Focus on what YOU can control: YOUR belongings. Lead by example. As you create calmer, easier-to-manage spaces, your spouse may naturally feel inspired to join in. And if not,
that’s okay. You’ll still enjoy the benefits of organizing your own things.
7. “I get it organized, but it doesn’t stay that way.” Organization isn’t one-and-done. It’s maintenance. Build in small routines, like putting things away right after you use them and resetting spaces at the end of the day. Just two
habits...cleaning as you go and putting items back where they belong...can make your hard work last.
8. “My children undo whatever I do.” Kids really can learn to be part of the solution. Hold family meetings where everyone chooses age-appropriate responsibilities. If children get a say in their chores, they’re more
likely to follow through. And remember, you’re not just maintaining a home. You’re teaching valuable life skills.
9. “But I might need it someday.” That thought is common and tricky. But most of the time, you won’t miss what you let go of. If you’re uncertain, try the “box and date” method: pack items up, mark the
date, and set them aside. If six months go by and you haven’t touched the box, you’ve got your answer. It can go.
10. “I don’t know what I should get rid of.” Keep it simple with two questions: Do I love it? Do I use it? If the answer to both is “no,” then it doesn’t deserve your space. Don’t let guilt or “just in
case” hold you back. If something is truly sentimental, give it a place of honor...or pass it on to someone who will appreciate it.
Excuses are natural, but they don’t have to hold you back. Start where you are, take small steps, and give yourself grace along the way. Every effort you make brings you closer to a home that supports your
life, instead of weighing it down.
On another note...
Pretty and Practical Hostess Gifts
When someone invites you into their home, a small hostess gift is a kind way to say thanks. These picks are both beautiful and useful...perfect for showing your appreciation without adding clutter to their space!
Access my carefully curated list here
