Organization – An Explanation

When you hear the word “organization”, what comes to mind? Impossible? Essential? A desire, maybe?

The Dictionary definition of organize is: 1. arrange into a structured whole; order. 2.make arrangements or preparations for (an event or activity); coordinate.

Organization is a way of life. It has the ability to truly, redefine the way you live your life. Structure to some is something to fear where as to others, it something to be desired. For some of us, this comes naturally, but to others, they can struggle with how to grasp this concept into their lives. I, for one, have always appreciated organization. I thrive off of structure and everything having it’s place. While I wasn’t exactly raised to think this way, I have gravitated to this state of mind for my own personal reasons.

Growing up, I was that kid who truly cherished items so deeply, that I wouldn’t use them. If I got the “brand name” version of markers or pencil crayons, I would save them for that special occasion where I could show them off. Look at what I’ve got! But when you think this way, no occasion will ever be special enough to bring them out and get use of what they were made for.

People do this constantly with items that end up going to waste in the end. You want to save those shiny new roller skates so they sparkle when you show off your skills, but before that day comes (or before you even learn to roller skate) you outgrow them. That face primer sample you got with your Sephora purchase will be great to use when have an amazing event to go to, but expires before that day arrives. We, as a society, are constantly wasting these valuable and special items for the future and it does not make any logical sense.

We save things for “what ifs” or “when I need it”. If you have not used it in a year, if it is collecting dust, if you forgot you even had it, get rid of it! If you are holding onto things for someone elses future, unless they have claimed it as they will totally make use of that later on, and if it is in your way or taking up space, don’t keep it. If you are one to keep things because “what if…” your making an excuse to keep that. Everything is replaceable. And while money does not grow on trees, clutter is a death trap. Okay, that may be a bit dramatic, but sometimes these “things” are actually causing more harm then good.

There are so many ways to declutter, and I will share a bunch of these in a later post, but deep down, take a moment to consider is useful in your life, versus what is taking up space. If you require more than one of this item, over why do I have 3 of these? Am I holding onto this for true sentimental value, or does that even matter? Not to be cold blooded, but memories don’t always have to be held with an object. It is nice to have things, but clutter of all these things, can actually cause damage long term.

Here are some key organization descriptions to consider when sorting through your belongings and deciding what to keep and what to let go of.

Organization helps remind you of what you already own.

Have you ever purchased something, anything, to realize you already had it… or 3 of it? Yup, I think we all have. Do you need a stock pile of facial cleansers? Have you realized how many plaid shirts you already own? Ever think to yourself “I think I have a pair of underwear/socks for every day of the year”? It’s too much! When you organize what you already own, you can truly save money on repurchasing items and duplicating items.

Organization allows you to make use of your belongings.

Instead of letting things go to waste, expire or piling up, using what you already have can make such a difference to your bank account. Sometimes we see a sale and think, I need that! Think about it, do you really? If you already own 12 nail polishes, is this new shade of pink really going to be life changing?

Organization always helps to find whatever you’ve been looking for.

You know that moment where you’re sorting through your closet and you find that dress, that shirt, that jacket you completely forgot you owned. Mind blowing every time! Whether you spent a lot of money on it or not, if it fits or not, as a former shopaholic, I know that thrill of remembering where and why you had to have it. That being said, this may also be the time to decide if you actually need to keep it or not.

Organization is the reminder that too much of anything, is never a good thing.

Multiples can be more of a burden than a blessing. How many white t-shirts do you need? If you have 12 serving spoons, thinking how often you’ll host dinner parties to need all of those. Even simple things like pens, hangers, mugs, it’s amazing how quickly collections can grow to unnecessary quantities.

Organization can prevent expiries on pricey products or waste of good.

Food, makeup, self care products and many more items come with expiry dates. The longer you hold onto them, especially without use, the more likely these items are to expire. The only time it is safe to keep these things are truly collectible valuables or alcoholic beverages like expensive wines and aged and imported spirits. Perfumes and colognes are another exception, but do consider only keeping those which you truly enjoy.

Organization saves you time and effort.

Have you ever lost your keys in your own home? Misplaced that bill that you needed to pay today? Almost had your license expire because you totally forgot about that form the government sent you 3 months in advance as a warning? You’re not alone. I hear about these problems and so many more like them all of the time. When you are organized, with your stuff, your schedule and in your life overall, these things are so preventable. It’s quite marvelous!

Organization takes less time to clean due to less clutter.

Without stacks of papers and clutter all spread out, there is less to tidy up. If you do not allow things to get out of control, your cleaning days or tasks take a fraction of the time. You could take up that hobby you have always said you want to try. I also recommend tackling large messes one at a time and when they are larger than expected, split those up into parts. Never overwhelm yourself with tidying up as it could cause you to give up and things just escalate from there. There is no rush, and once you are through, you will feel so incredibly accomplished.

Organization creates less stress and anxiety.

Clutter causes anxiety. I am no scientist, but that is a fact. When you live in chaos, your life becomes chaos. While some people thrive on chaos, it is difficult to keep up with this kind of lifestyle. Letting go of things and the bad memories they may hold, you will feel this weight lifted off of you. Decluttering can be a stress relieving activity, especially when you see open space or the floor you haven’t seen in a while. Give it a shot!

Organization can mean so much more, but I think you get my point. Clutter can be toxic, as it collects dust overtime and can cause health issues, big and small. It’s simply not worth it. I am not saying you have to throw everything away, but there are ways to store and sort your items that can be far more efficient. Take your time. Don’t rush. Enjoy the experience. It’s quite rewarding!

Melanie xoxox