As a migrant it is a rare occasion for me, to spend time with my parents who live on the other side of the world. Our meetings are infrequent, occurring once every 2 to 3 years, and when they do happen, they usually span several consecutive days or weeks. This unusual extended visits do give me a chance to closely observe and analyse my parents' organising behaviors, particularly in the realms of decluttering and maintaining a tidy living space. Reflecting on their habits, I've discovered valuable lessons that have influenced the way I approach my own home and belongings.

Mrs. Organised - My Mum's Approach:

My mother, whom I affectionately refer to as Mrs. Organised, has imparted numerous organising principles that have left a lasting impact on my daily life.

**Dedication to my parents**

Part of the dedication in my book “Organising Unpacked” is attributed to my parents.

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Here are some key takeaways:

Establishing Clear Standards:

Mrs. Organised has an unspoken but evident standard for how organised and clean she wants her space to be. This underlying benchmark serves as a guiding principle in her daily efforts to maintain order.

Consistent Daily Practices:

A notable aspect of my parents' approach is their commitment to daily tasks. They don't let things accumulate over time; instead, they ensure that items are promptly put away, expenses are recorded, dishes are washed, and the like. This consistent routine prevents the build-up of clutter and promotes an organised living environment.

Effective Teamwork:

Working as a team is another crucial element in my parents' organising strategy. Regular communication and a shared commitment to maintaining their space facilitate a harmonious and efficient approach to daily tasks. Okay let’s be honest, they do nag eachother to tidy up (like in most households). Each person plays their part, contributing to the overall orderliness of their home. They also have key tasks that are “their jobs”, I have unconsciously used this in my own relationships as well.

Daily Discarding Rituals:

One striking habit I observed is their daily practice of decluttering. They not only dispose of regular rubbish but also actively seek out items that have lost their usefulness. This includes clothing that no longer looks good or possessions that have become redundant. This proactive approach prevents the accumulation of unnecessary items and helps to keep their living space clutter-free.

Parental Influence on Organising Habits:

In the context of organising and decluttering, parental influence often ranks high among the factors shaping our habits and preferences.

The question arises: Are your parents' habits conducive to the lifestyle you desire? If not, it's essential to recognise that organising and decluttering are skills that can be learned and adapted to individual circumstances.

Regardless of whether your parents were naturally organised or not, the good news is that you have the power to develop and enhance your organisational skills. Through deliberate effort and daily practice, you can shape your living space to align with your preferences. Reflecting on the lessons learned from my parents, I am reminded that organisational habits are not set in stone and can be adjusted to suit each unique circumstance.

So, take charge, embrace the positive influences, and craft an organised and clutter-free living environment that resonates with your own vision of a comfortable and well-ordered home.

Note: part of this article was originally an Illawarra mercury article from 2013 updated and refreshed in 2023