The Secret Life of “Tidy”
Ever
wonder where the word tidy comes from? It actually traces back to the Middle English word tidi, meaning “timely” or “in good time.” Over the centuries, it shifted to describe things that were well-ordered and neat. Because, after all, when life is in order, everything feels right.
The history of cleaning itself also has
curious roots. The tradition of spring cleaning, for example, grew out of necessity in colder climates. After long winters of heating homes with wood or coal, people would open the windows at the first sign of warm weather and scrub everything down to clear out the soot and dust. That ritual turned into the fresh-start tradition we still associate with spring.
Even the idea of “decluttering” is newer than you might think. While people have always let go of possessions, the word itself only became popular in the late 20th century. Before that, folks just “cleared out” or “weeded through” their things.
It’s a reminder that words shift, traditions evolve, and even everyday organizing has a story to tell.
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Here's what just one GON reader had to say...
"I’ve been a pack rat my whole life. I always told myself that I’d tackle the clutter 'someday,' but someday never came. Then I stumbled on
your newsletter.
The tips felt so doable that I finally started. Little by little, I’ve been clearing things out, and for the first time, I can actually see my progress.
I still have a way to go, but thanks to you and your GON in 5 Minutes Ezine, I know I can get there."
--
Maggie K., Austin, TX
