A cluttered and unorganized home can mean chaos. But many find the task of organizing too daunting and soon the problem and the frustrations grow. The first step in creating a well-organized home is commitment. And not just the commitment of one person but of the entire family. Everyone must do their part. If not, no matter how much you get rid of or how well you organize, it will not stay that way. Bad habits will build a mess as quick as you can clean it up!

Tips to begin:

• Have a family meeting and make a commitment.
• Consider giving defined chores to children. If children are small it’s a good time to start teaching them to put away their toys before going on to the next activity. Older children are certainly capable of much more and teens should have weekly chores that give them the opportunity to take responsibility without always being told what to do. Of course each family should consider the need and delegate accordingly. Having monthly family meetings are a good idea. This gives everyone a chance to share. It’s also a good opportunity to discuss what’s not being done and to offer encouragement as well!
• Have everyone begin by going through their personal things and purging. Then begin room by room.
• Have a garage sale and use the money toward something you may need for the home. What doesn’t sell donate to a worthy cause. Do not bring anything back into the house. Having the ability to let things go that you don’t need is a feeling of freedom. You are acknowleging that you own the stuff and it doesn’t own you and your happiness does not depend on material things.
• Use underbed storage. You can use bed risers if there is not enough room. This space is golden. Items you use least should be packed toward the head of the bed and items you need more often toward the end. Boxes are fine if you do not have the ability to purchase underbed storage.
• Utilize closet space. There is usually plenty of room on each side of closet shelving that is more hidden. This is a good place to stack boxes with items that you do not use often such as winter clothing.
• Look around your house to see what you have and how it might be more useful: Mason jars can be used for storing nails, screws, buttons, and other small items. Tea cups, ramekins, or small boxes are helpful in organizing drawers. Shower curtain hooks hung on clothing rods are great for hanging purses.
• Set a time frame to have your project complete. Then set a date for a special family dinner or activity to celebrate the accomplishment.

These are just a few steps to begin, but little steps bring you closer to big results!