Organizing is all the rage right now! Everywhere you look, there are videos, how-to's, and picture perfect, Instagram worthy, color-coded pantries and closets. And who doesn't want to simplify and organize their life! It's a project with long-lasting gratification! 

In your enthusiasm to get rid of the clutter and get organized, here are some missteps to avoid:

#1 Starting Without a Plan

Tidying up is tidying up. Organizing is changing the way you live. Make sure you have a comprehensive plan in place before you start.

 

#2 Trying to Do It All at One Time

Divide and conquer. Clutter can be overwhelming and getting overwhelmed can slow down the whole process. Organize your organizing plan into small, attainable goals.

 

#3 Tackling The Paper Mountain First

Certain tasks can bring decluttering down to a crawl...or even stop it altogether.  Getting your paperwork sorted and organized is essential, but trying to to it first probably won't motivate you or give you much satisfaction.

 

#4 Trying To Buy Your Way to Organization

It pains us to admit, but organization is an action, not something you can buy. Renting storage space or buying beautifully chic, handwoven baskets may make you feel super accomplished...but all you've really done is drain your bank account and maybe put a few things in a pricey, new container.

 

#5 Buying Without Measuring

But don't even think about walking into Ikea or The Container Store before you know the size, shape, and dimensions of containers/organizers you need. 

 

#6 Not Using Your Wall Space

Don't forget about wall space. Coat hooks, bins, and shelves are great ways to be organized.

 

And if you're an especially adept DIYer, you might even think about using the space between the studs for shelving and storage options.

 

#7 Not Using Labels

Labeling everything may feel a bit over enthusiastic, but this keeps you and the rest of the household on track.

 

 

#8 Failing to Donate Your Donations

Guilty. Moving on.

 

#9 Allowing Your Organizers to Get Disorganized

Try to avoid too many free-standing small containers and keep them corralled in larger containers/drawers instead. Stay on top of things to keep your plan in action...getting organized is one thing, but staying organized is the ultimate plan. 

 

Photo: ClassyClutter.net