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Amber’s Home and Office Organizing Blog index

Clutter Patterns

Recognizing Patterns Produces Better Organizing Solutions

Is all clutter the same? Yes, most of the time it is. Does any of it surprise me? Not really. Do people keep the same types of clutter? Yes, all the time. Piles, stacks, mess, and chaos all look the same in every house or business. It’s nothing out of the ordinary and doesn’t shock me. When friends or family members have my husband and I over it’s evitable that they’ll comment that they haven’t picked up or they’ll apologize for the mess. There’s really no need. I actually prefer to leave work with work and don’t obsess over piles every where I go. Where it does bother me is when I’m shopping and paying for services in local businesses. If they’re not organized or service lacks because of disorganization, I immediately notice it. How about you? Have you ever noticed the impact disorganization has around you? Patterns or common similarities are always found when organizing. I want you to identify with your neighbor, friend or coworker.

You are not the only one who... 

Stores lots of shopping bags and shoe boxes in the bottom of the closet left over from shopping trips

Forgets things in the old purse when switching over to a new purse

Stashes extra grocery bags (paper and plastic) under the sink or in a closet

Keeps receipts stuffed in a drawer or Ziploc bag

Has a bag of socks in the laundry room missing their mates

Sticks Post-its all over the desk

These are just the tip of the iceberg. And there’s no need to feel guilty or ashamed. It goes to show many of us think a like and struggle with the same random processes. When we’re organizing, it’s my job to recognize the pattern and come up with a simple, streamlined solution to help reduce the extra piles and stacks. I actually pay more attention to people’s patterns and habits in their home and office than I do their stuff. So next time you’re baffled by the same clutter piling up in the same spot, step back and ask yourself these questions: 

1. How does this come about? 

2. What is the similar pattern happening over and over? 

3. What could I do differently? 

4. What would be a suitable alternative option? 

5. What would make it easier for me (us)? 

Don’t get down on yourself, get creative! Think outside the box!

 

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