Do I Need to Keep My 6th Grade Paper?

 

I came across this YouTube video recently by Maryilyn Bohn who makes a really excellent point. Why do we hang on to things we can’t use or no longer use? Even if you file it or store it away, it’s taking up valuable space.

The Ironic Storage Solution

Repurposed toothbrush holder as pencil holder

When people have things they no longer use or have too many items taking up space, they’ll get a box and take those things to a resale shop. You can then go to a resale shop or a yard sale and buy these things at a pretty low cost.

But hang on- doesn’t somebody else’s clutter problem then become your clutter problem? Not necessarily. It all depends on what you buy and what you use it for. If you’re looking for creative storage solutions, look at resale objects as potential objects for storing your stuff. Find a new purpose for old things.

For example, I picked up a plain, metal toothbrush holder. It’s narrow and has four slots. This works perfect for my office utensils and fits well on my desk. It holds a pencil, pen, highlighter, and scissors- nothing more, nothing less. It’s exactly what I need and takes up much less space than a round pencil holder. Plus, there’s no room to put objects in it that don’t belong.

Think INSIDE the box?

Use a shoebox for storage in cupboards

Yes, I’m telling you to think INSIDE the box. In most cases this phrase would be frowned upon, but for organizing, boxes are where you should think about putting your stuff.

I use shoeboxes because, well, I already have a bunch in the house. You’ve probably spent enough on those shoes already, so don’t spend more money. The boxes don’t need to be pretty if they’re going to be hidden in a cupboard. But if you wanted to, you could paint them so they all matched.

I “think inside the box” in my bathroom cupboards. My hair dryer and hair straightener are in separate boxes. This prevents the cords from getting tangled. I have a designated “restocking” supply box that holds things like extra toothpaste, plastic cups, hand soaps, and mini garbage bags. If I need a refill on anything, it’s right there in the box. I just slide the box out of the cupboard and take what I need.

Reach for the Sky (or more like the ceiling)

Stack your stackable items using movable shelves

Look from left to right in the room your in right now. You’ll probably notice lots of stuff in your line of vision as you scan the room. Now, look up. What do you see? Most likely you saw empty space. When you’ve used up your horizontal space, think vertical.

Invest in movable shelves, boxes, and totes that can be stacked. You can even find these items in certain colors or patterns to match your room. I’ve chosen a purple and green color scheme. Through shopping at thrift stores, I’ve found items in these coordinating colors. If you can’t find the right colors or patterns, consider painting or covering them with fabric so they can match your décor.

4 Ways to Be More Organized Everyday (in Less than 4 Minutes)

Image from Fotolia

Don’t have time to get organized? Here are four ways to be more organized everyday in less than four minutes:

4. Lay out your clothes the night before.

Write it down!

It’s a time-saver in the morning and you’re more likely to put together a matching outfit when you’re fully awake rather than half awake.

3. Hang your coat on a hook.

If you put your coat in the same spot you won’t have to look for it if (when) you’re running late.

2. Write it down.

When you have something to do but can’t do it until later, write it down so you don’t forget. However, make sure you’ve got ONE list and not several lists.