Getting Organized at Home: 12 Steps to Peace, Part 1

“Where ARE those keys?” 

“Argggh…I forgot my lunch again!”

“You need me to bring you your homework?”

Sound familiar?

Do you wish you were more organized at home? I sure do. Even though I am considered to be an organized person, you might be surprised if you came to my house. You’d see a lived-in--not pristine--home. There are spots where it appears we've gotten a handle on organization, but there are just as many that need de-cluttering and order. So why am I writing a book, with my friends Stephanie Baker and Karina Whisnant, on getting organized at home, if my home is not a shining example?

We're writing this book because we know that a majority of families, and women in particular, struggle with juggling all their responsibilities. Many are interested in finding ways to streamline their homes, reduce stress, and be able to find their keys! As writers, we are on the same journey as many of these women, and we each have our strengths and challenges when it comes to being organized. We write from shared experiences, not from the dust free ivory tower commanding, "Do what we do." In the process, we’re discovering that:

Getting organized at home is an act of worship. Our first priority is our relationship with God. We honor Him when we bring our lives and homes into order and balance. Have you considered doing a prayer walk in your own home?

Getting organized allows us to serve others more easily. When we are organized and our home is generally presentable, we are in a much better position to spontaneously reach out to someone in need (i.e. provide a place to stay or a meal), create a refuge for our families where they can safely recharge, or even take a last minute trip!

Getting organized is a matter of progress, not perfection. We set a goal to be "finally done," but even if we reach it, it is short lived because there’s always something else to do. So instead, why not enjoy journey of making improvements, rather than a destination of perfection?

Getting organized relates to our personality and body rhythms. You do your best organizing when your energy level is up, and it’s okay to match your personality to your organization skills. For example, if you are a creative personality, you don't have to try to have everything in a specific place like a more detailed individual may want.

Getting organized reflects on our emotions and history. We carry memories, and yes, even baggage from our past, that affects how we keep our homes. This can include modeling after other relatives, positive or negative comments we've received from others (i.e. "I never taught you that way,") or expectations such as how a holiday "always goes."

Getting organized corresponds to our relationships. If more than one person lives in the home, the relationship will have an impact on how the home is maintained. We have to learn to adjust to the personalities of our spouses, roommates, and children. One student was delighted to take a guest room for her own creative space, freeing up the home office entirely for her "everything in its place" husband. It was positive for them individually AND for their marriage!

We'll look at the remaining six next week!

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