Ep 326: Keeping it Simple

Hi Friends,

We just wrapped up a room by room organizing series, and if you haven’t had the chance to listen, I encourage you to go back and check each of these out!  

• Kitchens 
• Closets
• Garages & Storage Spaces
• Nursery and New Baby
• Playrooms & Kid Spaces
• Small Space Living
• Home Offices

As I looked back through each episode, there was one central theme that kept popping up-SIMPLICITY.

It isn’t the use of a magical bin or basket, sure those can help, but the throughline from each expert, in each space, starts with reducing the amount of stuff you own–(I call that volume), followed by the system you choose to maintain an organized space.

The system might be a bin by the door to place your muddy boots, or a drawer that holds all of your knives and cutting tools.

It could be adding a turntable in your refrigerator so you can easily see what’s in the back, or perhaps it’s adding cubbies that can double as storage and a nightstand.

The combination of less stuff  coupled with a simple system increases the likelihood of keeping a clutter-free home. As a general rule, I recommend no more than a two-step process for any space or area.  Remember, the simpler the better!

Tip: Whenever I am at a crossroads, I always come back to “the ease of retrieval.”  How quickly can I find and access what I am looking for?  

The third part to the equation is COMMUNICATION. This is especially important when you live with other people-whether roommates, partner, spouse, kids or aging parents. We often assume that other people know exactly what we mean when we say things like “clean up” or “I need your help”, but that’s not always the case.

Setting clear expectations, explaining the process along with “so that…” paints a picture of WHY an organized home is important.

So that…we have more time to play.

So that….I am not stressed when I walk through the door.

So that….I don’t waste time looking for something I know I have but can’t seem to find.

I know first hand the freedom that comes with keeping things simple. The older I get, the less stuff I need or want. However I get that you might be in a season of life filled with kids toys, sports equipment, art projects and more. If that’s you, it’s all the more reason to find SIMPLE where and when you can.  Life is chaotic, unpredictable, and coming at us at a million miles an hour.  Personally, I want my home to be a place where I can literally shut the door (even if that’s the bathroom door), and slow down for five minutes.

If that seems impossible, I’m here to walk with you-one step at a time. We’d love to hear from you, and know where you might be struggling.  
Please send in your questions to https://simplyborganized.com/questions/

XO

-Laurie

P.S.

You can listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts and watch us on YouTube.

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