Habits of Being Clutter-free

By Cyndi Seidler

Reprinted from HG Organized Living, Spring 1998 issue 

Even the most organized person can struggle to maintain order. As a matter of fact, it is often the organized, busy executive who has the most difficulty keeping on top of organization.

As work load continues to increase, our environment can suffer unless we take some time to take care of administrative and organizational tasks. It doesn’t take long for paper to pile up if it’s not being put away in its home as we finish with it. That "home" might be a temporary home, but at least the paper is put away instead of sitting out on the desk somewhere.

Because our busy lifestyles warrant continuous maintenance to keep an orderly environment, a key to being clutter-free is to put things away when we’re done with them. It really only takes a moment but, if we don’t, it can take hours to sort out when it gets out of control.

This new behavior usually has to be developed, like a routine. The act of putting something away when done with it may sound easy for some, yet, on the other hand, is not part of some individual’s basic nature. We’re too busy to be bothered with doing that, right? Or, maybe we just haven’t designated a "home" for the item yet, yes? Whatever the attitude is, the best thing you can do for yourself is change it (the attitude).

If you were to look around your area right now, it would be a good "drill" to spot what doesn’t have a home. This word, "home" was picked up from other Professional Organizers although I can’t say who invented it. It basically implies that each and every item has a place, a "home." A home for magazines could be a magazine basket or holder. For audio and video tapes, a home could be special holders, containers, even a drawer, or designated shelf. Mail would have a basket to go into. Project or pending papers could go in folders. Folders could go in a folder rack, holder, basket, or filing cabinet. Office supplies might go in a cabinet, a drawer, or containers. Items such as keys and glasses can be placed in a certain, designated dish. Get the idea?

Once everything has a place to live or go to temporarily, the area will be tidy and organized. It is also a good habit to work on only one project at a time and, before moving on to the next activity, put it away. That way, the area doesn’t get too messy and require extra attention later. If this seems to outrageous, an alternative work habit to develop would be to clear off your desk or work area before leaving it at the end of the day.

Let’s review the simplicity of this. First, decide to change the environment to a better one. Then, change an attitude. After that, adjust habits, establish and implement systems, and lastly, adapt policy to maintain the order put there.

Yes, it’s simple and it can be done, even by the busiest of people.

Copyright © 1998 Cyndi Seidler.  All Rights Reserved.

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