5 Things Jen Does to Get Organized for the New Year

01 | Donate

This is something I routinely do! I am a big believer in purging and donating the things I am no longer using. If this is something new to you, I recommend setting a goal for the new year to do at least once a year. Nothing like starting off the new year with a clean slate of things that bring you joy! The purging process is the perfect time to reflect on items and make room for new. Not to mention, donating is rewarding! Your items will be going to a good home, where someone will be grateful for them. Over the years, I’ve partnered with local organizations and shelters for donating items for both myself and clients. I highly suggest doing some research and finding a donation center you would like to support!

02 | Daily Planner

If you’re like me, there is just something special about pen to paper! I’ve evolved my day-to-day planner to be more digital, but long-term monthly goals go on a visual calendar for a clear view! This a perfect practice for long-term goal setting and visually seeing where things are planned out. The best thing about staying organized is that there isn’t a right or wrong way! It’s important to use the right tool for keeping you organized. If you’re more digital for your day-to-day planning like me, I highly recommend using the “Tasks” feature on Gmail Calendar! If you’re using a daily planner, using different colors pens, or tabs for keeping your tasks categorized.

03 | Re-style my shelves

I’m a HUGE fan of a little refresh. Going into the new year, I love to re-style shelves around my home and in my office! I love adding a few new decor pieces, books, and little items, to add a fresh flair to my spaces. I love resetting a space I’m in daily, like my office, to encourage creativity and productivity within my space. An important thing to note, you don’t always have to buy new items to freshen up your space. Try moving items to opposite sides or declutter a particular space you’ve been eyeing - it makes all the difference!

04 | Check expiration dates

The perfect habit to start; checking ALL expiration dates. I love to start in the pantry and turn it into a family task. I separate out the items based on what my family uses, so we’re more conscientious of the items we are or aren’t using. This is a great habit to get into and do at least one big purge a year. This is also a great time to create new systems that the family can also help create and put into action. I LOVE my canisters which makes checking expirations much easier because most of the items have been used up. This system declutters my pantry and eliminates hidden boxes that have gone to waste.

05 | Go through products

Just like donating clothes and checking expirations, I love going through my beauty and bathroom products. Another product that often gets overlooked is vitamins! The bathroom or backstock storage space can get a bit overwhelming especially because it’s a space you often “feel” like you’re going to need a product at some point. Most of the time, that item sits and eventually expires or you opened and it has spoiled. It’s so important to go through this space and simplify or put in a space you and your family will use more regularly. Create systems so you are using your items or visually can see what inventory you have. It will make your purging process easier and you’ll be thankful you did it!