5 organizing myths that are keeping you stuck in your stuff
“I’m just not an organized person.”
“I should be able to do this, it’s not rocket science.”
“I bought all these containers but they didn’t really help.”
“My friend helped me organize my closet but it got messy again in a few days.
What do these statements have in common?
They are all rooted in common misconceptions about organizing that, while widespread, are unequivocally false. And worse, they are likely hindering your ability to get unstuck and start transforming your home into a calm, functional sanctuary.
Today I’m debunking 5 common myths about organizing to help overcome the mental barriers to getting - and staying - organized.
Myth #1: People are born organized
I can't tell you how many times I've heard people say, "Oh, I wish I was as naturally organized as you!" But here's the thing: most people are not born organized. In fact, I wouldn't even say that I am all that “naturally” organized. Over the years I’ve figured out tricks and strategies to ensure that my space is as clear and clutter-free as possible, because I’ve come to realize that I simply feel better when my space is orderly and beautiful. I don’t like putting a lot of effort into accessing my things, so I’ve worked hard to create systems that make putting things away and taking them out super easy and fast. So instead of thinking of organization as a static trait, think of it as a skill that must be learned and practiced over time.
The first thing you need to learn to be organized?
YOURSELF.
Organizing is a game of knowing your priorities, your habits, and what you are and are not willing to do in service of a space that feels orderly.
Being organized entails developing systems and habits that work for you, which can require a lot of trial and error. Don't be discouraged if you don't get it right the first time; with a little effort and a willingness to experiment and learn, anyone can design a more organized life.
Myth #2: Getting organized is a one-time activity
I wish this were true. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could spend a day organizing your home and never have to worry about it again? Unfortunately, that is not the case. Getting organized is a continuous process that necessitates consistent effort. Therefore, you'll need to keep doing small tasks to keep it that way over time. Think of your home like a garden that needs regular pruning and weeding in order for your flowers and plants to flourish.
Be warned that if you create a system that is too complicated, or that isn’t easy to reach, or that uses woven baskets when you really need clear see-through plastic… you likely won’t use it. So try to design systems that work for your brain and are as easy to use as possible. Be on the lookout for signs that they need tweaking. If your drawers or shelves are overflowing, it might be time to declutter or completely redesign your system.
The good news is that once you’ve completed an initial organizing campaign - or a tidying festival as Marie Kondo calls it - it becomes a lot easier to sense when your space is sliding out of equilibrium. From there, the maintenance needed to maintain your orderly space can be broken down into small, quick, as-needed tasks.
Myth #3: Organizing = buying containers
Another common misconception is that purchasing containers is the key to organizing. Sorry to burst your bubble, but simply purchasing a bunch of containers will not magically organize your home. In fact, it's best to wait until you've decluttered and assigned homes to your belongings before purchasing any containers. Only then will you know what kind of containers (if any) you need. And don't feel obligated to buy all new containers; you can repurpose items such as shoe boxes and mason jars to save money and reduce waste.
Don't get me wrong: I find few things as satisfying as setting up a new system complete with pretty, matching organizing bins. But purchasing containers is not the be-all and end-all of organizing. In fact, if you're not careful, buying containers before you’re ready can backfire with those very containers turning into clutter!
Myth #4: There is a “right” way to organize that works for everyone
Nothing could be further from the truth! There is no one "right" way to organize because everyone has different needs, habits, and preferences, and what works for one person may not work for another. It's critical to become aware of the types of systems that work for you so that you can design ones that truly fit your lifestyle.
Some people, for example, may prefer to keep everything out in the open so that they can see it, whereas others may prefer to keep everything tucked away in drawers and cabinets. There is no correct or incorrect answer; it is all about determining what works best for you.
The key is to know yourself and which systems work best for you. The better you understand your own organizational style, the easier it will be to design systems that truly work for you.
Myth #5: I should be able to do this myself.
Many people believe that they should be able to organize themselves without the assistance of others. I find this to be especially true for women, who are socialized with the expectation that they "should" be good at homemaking, cleaning, and organizing. So, when we are juggling work, family, hobbies, health, and social life, finding time and energy to care for our homes can be nearly impossible, leaving us frustrated and even ashamed because we tell ourselves, "Organizing isn't rocket science; I should be able to do this easily."
However, organizing can be freaking overwhelming, and it is 100% acceptable to seek help. We are social beings who thrive when we support one another. You can seek assistance in small ways, such as getting help with childcare so you can devote a few hours to decluttering, or in large ways, such as hiring a professional organizer to guide you through the process.
Getting help can make the organizing process easier and more enjoyable, whether you hire a professional organizer or simply ask a friend for assistance. Working with others can also help you stay accountable and motivated.
If you’re ready to get started working with a professional organizer, click here to schedule your free 20-minute consultation.
So there you have it: 5 of the most common organizing myths busted!
Remember:
With practice and dedication, anyone can learn to be organized.
Containers should be the last step in the process, not the first, in order to keep your systems running smoothly.
Organizing isn’t a one-and-done event and will require regular maintenance and tweaking.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to organizing, so it is critical to be aware of what works for you.
And don't be afraid to ask for assistance! Organizing can be overwhelming, but with help, it's much easier.
I hope this helps you cut through some of the common unhelpful stories we tell ourselves about organization. Because at the end of the day, organizing is nothing more than a tool to help you create a space that supports you emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. The goal is not to have an Instagram-worthy home, but to have a sanctuary that helps you stay connected to your spirit and gives you time to enjoy the beautiful, enchanting, meaningful moments in life.
xo,
Joanie
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