Organize Yourself: Tip #5

I have known people who feel like if there is an open space in their house they need to fill it up. Just the other day I had someone ask me what was missing in one corner of my living room. There hadn't been anything there before, it was just an open space that she probably figured must have been filled at one time. And several people have commented on how there is barely anything on my refrigerator.

Tip #5: Learn to love empty spaces! Even if the empty spaces are calling out to you, resist the urge to fill them up. Empty spaces are great for making an area more open, less cluttered, and more inviting.

First try to clear the floor of everything but the necessary stuff like furniture. Bookshelves, magazine racks, baskets, shoe racks, toyboxes, and hampers will help get the clutter off the floor, opening up your room (and making it much easier to vacuum). Clean off your refrigerator or other places that tend to collect things (like the bathroom counter). Make a to-do list or a reminder list so that you can put things away until you are ready for them. Use a reminder list for projects you want to do, or for simple things like remembering to take your vitamins (rather than leaving them out on the counter day in and day out…).

Next, when you take something out of its place and use it, remind yourself to put it back where it goes when you are done. It only takes a few seconds to follow this simple rule, but it saves you loads of time later, and keeps the empty spaces empty.

Finally, have one bin or box specifically to fill up with things to give away. It's a great place to put the clutter that is unnecessary. You’ll find yourself needing to empty it frequently.

If you follow these simple rules, you will find that you actually enjoy having empty spaces, and people will notice how open and inviting your home or office is.