How To Tell If Your Organization System Isn't Working
If you know Life In Jeneral, you know that our number one intention is supporting the community in building organization systems that are unique and supportive to each individual. Part of this process is not only me providing you pro-tips that I love, but it’s also me supplying you with the signs that a system isn’t working. With all that being said, let’s go over 5 of the clues to look out for that your organization system isn’t supporting you.
Your System Feels Over-Complicated
At the root, organization should be simplifying your life, not complicating it. These steps should feel like they can almost be habitual (unified folding, placing pantry items into their proper zone, etc.). This is not to say that these new habits don’t take time. Just like adding in fitness to your lifestyle, these adaptations take commitment. If after a few weeks, or a month, of regular practices for your system, it still feels time consuming and exhausting, your system needs shifting. This will most likely look like scaling back on the steps. For example, maybe your new grocery system is unloading groceries, decanting, labeling, putting them in their proper pantry zone, refolding your grocery bags, and replacing them in their designated spot. While I think these steps sound amazing, I completely respect that completing all of these steps aren’t for everyone. If you dread your grocery run every single time due to them, it’s time to shave back. Maybe labeling isn’t for you, or you only decant when it’s absolutely necessary. Decipher what feels like excess, and take it out for now.
2. Spaces Feel Cluttered
One of the easiest ways (in my point of view) that a new or refined organization system is needed, is if clutter continues to creep in. If there are two things your systems should support you with, it’s providing you efficiency and a clutter-free environment. Therefore, if you come home and your entryway is a drop off station for coats, leashes, etc., or your closet is bursting at the seams, it’s time to readjust. If this is your current scenario, please know that you are not alone. Finding a break in your system is part of the process and it should be a bit of trial-and-error to find a structure that’s sustainable. What I would highly encourage you to do is to step back and see where the error is rooted from. If there's cluttered chaos in the entryway, the habit of bringing shoes to the bedroom and putting coats immediately in your closet might not work for you and your family. Maybe consider adding a coat rack and shoe rack to collect those items as soon as you walk in. This way the items are stored and organized (in an aesthetic way), but maintaining this habit feels a little more accessible. If your closet is bursting at the seams, I would highly encourage you to edit before anything else. I promise you that purging items will be the quickest fix. From there, maybe consider storing items that are out of season (you can read my blog on How To Store Winter Belongings here). By doing so, the prime real estate is just given to the inventory that fits the current season. I've also been eyeing Transformer Table - they have functional, modular furniture that can easily be adjusted to fit your space and layout requirements!
3. You’re Not Actually Using Your System
This one might come as obvious, but I also understand that sometimes we can trick ourselves into thinking we will eventually use it (aka me with a HIIT workout. I convince myself everyday I will do it, but we all know the truth haha). As you know, the system won’t work unless you use it. If you find yourself in this place, you ultimately have two options, make the intentional decision to try it (even if you say you’ll give it a trial time). Along the way, you will more than likely find a routine around it, and will absolutely see the benefit from your system. Your other option is to establish a new system that feels a little more attainable. If storing your winter gear is just absolutely something you cannot convince yourself to do, consider at least placing your winter items to one end of your closet. That way, your spring/summer gear is front and center.
4. Your System Isn’t Flexible For Your Lifestyle
I think the best example I can use for this one is the refrigerator. If your system has just enough zones, containers, and real estate for a set amount of inventory, it will more than likely only work short term. The truth is, seasons and cravings change. Therefore, if your fridge can’t adapt to bulkier produce or large amounts of food to prepare for a party, it’s not a sustainable system. Your system should have room for flexibility, as the contents within your fridge change (or any other space you are working with). To fix this (we will keep the fridge as an example), instead of having a basket with a set label for eggs, apples, yogurt, etc., consider giving each shelf a general zone (“dairy shelf,” “leftovers shelf,” “fruit drawer”). If you are like me and still like a container per product, consider dissolvable labels. This is such an easy way to adjust the labels as your groceries evolve.
5. You Haven’t Included Everyone In Your Household
To me, this is the same as you not actually using your system. If you are the only one creating it and maintaining it, chances are it won’t work long-term. As cheesy as it may sound, I love the process of organization to be a family goal. It’s such a beautiful opportunity to work together as a collective to build structure within your home. Whether it’s a partner, roommate, or children, find ways to include them in the process (even if that’s just making them aware of it). One of my favorite ways to include children is by making it a game. When organizing their playroom, try having them join in on separating their toys by size and/or color, or show them their stuffed animals’ special home. This part is all about being creative and inclusive. Trust me, when everyone in your household is involved, the system is far more likely to stick.