Mastering the Art of Organisation: A Guide to Finding Homes for Your Belongings

Do you often find yourself or a loved one exclaiming, "Where are my keys?" in the midst of a frantic search? It's a common scenario in many households, and the solution lies in the simple yet powerful concept of organisation, finding ‘homes’ for your stuff.

Imagine gaining back 7 to 14 working days a year by eliminating the time spent searching for lost items. Let's delve into the transformative world of organisation, starting with the fundamental principle of giving every item in your home a designated "home."

Organise cups, a home for everything

Give every item in your home a designated "home."

The Power of Homes

One of the first areas to tackle is the notorious key and wallet dilemma. Establish a designated spot near the entrance for these essentials. Before leaving the house, a quick glance ensures you have your keys, phone, and wallet. If one is missing, it's a breeze to locate and grab, taking only seconds. By implementing this simple practice, you can save valuable time and reduce daily frustration.

Tackling Homeless Items

Extend the concept of "homes" to other commonly misplaced items:

Bags: Allocate a specific shelf or box for bags, ensuring they have their place.

Shoes: Organise shoes on shelves or in boxes, separating everyday pairs from special occasion footwear.

Bills: Sort bills directly above the recycling bin, instantly making the task less daunting. After opening, place them in a designated spot for payment or filing.

Pencils, Books, and Newspapers: Group these items together as display pieces. A visually appealing arrangement can add charm to your space while maintaining order.

Kids' Toys: Dedicate a storage space for toys, encouraging a clutter-free environment. Evaluate the number of toys to ensure you have an appropriate amount of storage.

Reaping the Benefits

The advantages of adopting the concept of "homes" extend beyond mere organisation. Imagine saving 15 to 30 minutes each day by effortlessly locating frequently used items. Establishing just one home per day translates to creating 30 organised spaces in a month, significantly reducing the time spent searching for essentials.

A Personal Touch

As a parting tip, consider investing in small organisational tools that make a big difference. For instance, attaching a clip inside your handbag for your keys can be a game-changer. No more fumbling through your bag for minutes on end, the keys are always on the same spot in your bag. Click them of your handbag clip and you're in the house.

In our daily lives, it's often the little things that count. Embrace the power of organisation and transform your space into a haven of efficiency and tranquility. Say goodbye to the stress of misplaced items and welcome the simplicity and calmness that an organised home brings.

Learn the basics of Organising

I talk about the importance of finding homes for your belongings in all my organising books.

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

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Transform Your Living Spaces: The Vision of an Organised Home

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Master the Art of Meal Planning with a Weekly Meal Planner