This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see our full disclosure for further information. If not otherwise stated, all prices are intended in US$.
Do you sometimes feel as though life is getting a little on top of you? Like you’re treading water but are dangerously close to going under?! When you’re not in control it can be difficult, and the smallest of inconveniences can become major issues when you’re not in a mindframe to deal with them. There’s often a lot going on when these feelings come into play and they aren’t always things you can control- however, there are plenty that you can. Getting organised can really give you peace of mind and help you feel as though you’re handling things. It stops you from getting flustered and can generally help your day run much more smoothly. If you’re ready to make a positive change, here are some things you can start right now!
Sort out your car
It’s easy for our cars to become a bit of a dumping ground. Due to of course the nature of them, when we’re in them we’re on the go- we have things to do and places to be. Things like receipts and car parking tickets can get chucked onto the passenger seat and then blow onto the floor once we’re done with them. A quick lunch on the go can end up getting left in the car, and as time goes on bit by bit it can accumulate clutter and junk. Every now and again, it’s so worth going through the car and emptying it out. Chances are it’s one of the most expensive items you own so it’s worth taking some pride in it. When it’s clean, have a think about what kinds of things you might need in there in an emergency. A warning triangle, a hi vis vest, a blanket and some warm socks in case you break down. Think about other practical items too, a makeup bag and a mirror might come in handy if you often go out after work. A clean set of clothes for your kids if they often get muddy or dirty when you’re out and about. Pack up a little backpack of essentials and put it in the boot, it’s there if you ever need it then.
Go through your handbag
Your handbag is another area where junk can easily accumulate- how many times have you been rummaging through it in the last month looking for something and having to dig through old papers, snack wrappers, receipts and other things you don’t need?! The handbag is an incredible tool for staying organised in life, fill it up with the things you need on a daily basis and you’re never caught short. From painkillers to a pen and notebook, an umbrella, topup makeup supplies and a pouch for things like headphones, tissues and other bits and pieces and you’re good to go. Get into the habit of emptying it out once a week, and if you’re constantly finding yourself needing something when you’re out and about, be sure to include it in there. ‘What’s in my bag’ videos are popular on Youtube and are strangely interesting if you’re looking for inspiration for what to put in yours.
Update your phone contacts
Is your phonebook full of people you’ve not spoken to in a decade? Old work colleagues from jobs you’ve left, friends you’re no longer in contact with, doctors and dentists that you don’t go to any more since moving practices? Go through and delete anyone you don’t need, it’s easy to find people on social media these days so won’t lose contact, you don’t need their number unless they’re close to you and you call them frequently or you need it for professional reasons. Update your doctors, dentist and vets too. If you have a pet which is a bit out of the norm such as a reptile or exotic, get the number to a vet like Unusualpetvets.com. This could save you precious minutes in the case of an emergency if something goes wrong with your furry, feathered or scaled friend.
Declutter your home
Home is where the heart is- it should be your sanctuary, your respite from the world. But a home that’s disorganised and full of clutter will add to your stress levels, rather than relive them. Decluttering is a process, it’s something you need to tackle regularly if you want to keep on top of it. But often, getting started is the hardest step- if you don’t know where to start, begin with one room. Empty out your wardrobe and donate, sell or bin clothes you no longer wear. Go through cupboards and drawers, don’t be too sentimental- if you don’t have a use for something anymore pass it onto someone that does. We’re not all blessed with enormous homes and so space is of the essence, save room for the things you do use and love. Come up with good organisation systems which will keep everything neat and tidy, from drawer dividers to baskets and bins to hooks and shelves. Pinterest is full of cool ideas that are well worth a look.
Being organized is something you can be proud of and it has to start somewhere, I like that you suggested our contact list. I know mine has numbers no longer needed. I think that’s the first thing I need to declutter first.