How to build daily organizing habits that stick
At the beginning of every year, we set goals and resolutions, and for many of us, getting organized is at the top of the list. But even with the best intentions, by the end of January—or maybe February—that goal often gets forgotten, and we slip back into old habits.
I can relate! I love organizing and having neat systems in place, but not everyone in my house shares the same priorities when it comes to keeping things tidy. So, I decided to research why organizing is so difficult to start and even harder to maintain. Now, I’m sharing what I’ve learned with you!
So, grab a cup of coffee and a snack—this post is packed with tips to help you build daily organizing habits that stick.
Why Should We Get Into the Habit of Organizing?
Organizing isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing habit. It involves creating systems and routines that make life easier, not harder. Here’s why building this habit is beneficial:
1. Organizing Reduces Stress
When everything has a designated place, you experience less stress in your daily routine. Visual clutter—items scattered around—can create subconscious stress without you even realizing it. A well-organized space promotes a sense of calm and order.
🛒 Try these practical storage bins to keep everything in its place and reduce clutter.
2. Enjoy Your Home More
A tidy, cozy home is far more enjoyable. When everything has its place, putting things away is easier, making cleanup faster and keeping your space inviting.
🛒 These command hooks are great for keeping everyday items accessible without adding clutter.
3. Boost Productivity
An organized environment helps you stay focused and efficient. When you don’t waste time searching for misplaced items, you can use that time for more important things.
🛒 This label maker can help you keep track of where everything belongs, making organization effortless.
4. Improve Your Mindset
When one area of your life feels organized, it can create a positive ripple effect on other aspects. A well-ordered home can lead to a more positive and motivated mindset overall.
How to Build Daily Organizing Habits
Once you’ve decluttered and organized, maintaining it is key. Here are some practical ways to make organizing a daily habit:
1. Try Habit Stacking
Habit stacking means attaching a new habit to an existing one. For example, if you want to sweep the kitchen daily, pair it with something you already do—like waiting for your morning coffee to brew. This way, organizing becomes a seamless part of your routine.
🛒 A lightweight cordless vacuum makes quick daily cleanups a breeze.
2. Use the “Decide Once” Philosophy
Inspired by The Lazy Genius Way by Kendra Adachi, this method involves making a one-time decision about recurring tasks to eliminate constant decision-making. For example:
- Assign specific days for meal themes (e.g., Monday = chicken, Tuesday = beef).
- Establish household chore responsibilities (e.g., you handle laundry on Wednesdays and Fridays, while your partner unloads the dishwasher)
🛒 Check out The Lazy Genius Way for more great organizing strategies.
3. Scan & Fix
Always be on the lookout for small messes and fix them immediately. If you notice a misplaced item, return it to its spot right away. A simple habit like taking a cup to the sink when leaving a room prevents clutter from piling up.
4. Set Appointments for Organizing
Treat organizing like any other important task—schedule it! If you book time for decluttering, treat it as seriously as a coffee date with a friend. And if you must reschedule, don’t push it too far into the future.
🛒 Use this daily planner to schedule your organizing sessions and stay on track.
5. Pair Tasks with Enjoyable Activities
Make organizing more enjoyable by pairing it with something fun. Watch your favorite show while folding laundry or listen to music while decluttering. You can also set up a reward system—like treating yourself to a coffee after finishing a task.
🛒 This Bluetooth speaker is perfect for playing music while you clean and organize.
6. Find an Accountability Partner
Having someone to check in with can boost motivation. You can:
- Ask a friend or partner to keep you accountable.
- Share your progress on social media.
- Plan organizing sessions before hosting guests (a great motivator!).
Tackling Big Organization Projects
Some organizing tasks feel overwhelming, like decluttering an entire garage or spare room. Here’s how to make them manageable:
1. Break It Down into Small Tasks
Instead of focusing on the entire project, list three small, manageable tasks at a time. For example:
- Take out the trash.
- Group similar items together.
- Find storage solutions.
Once you complete one task, add another to the list. This approach keeps you from feeling overwhelmed and helps you make steady progress.
Final Thoughts
Staying organized is a journey, not a destination. By forming small, consistent habits, you can create a home that feels peaceful and functional without spending hours decluttering every month.
Do you have organizing habits that work for you? Share them in the comments! And if you found this post helpful, be sure to pin it for later.
As Benjamin Franklin wisely said, “For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned.” Let’s start building habits that save us time and make life easier
More Organizing and Decluttering Inspiration
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Thank you for following along! Have a wonderful day!
