Getting Organized with the "Relatives and Work Colleagues" Method
If you've paid attention to my organization tips, you know I'm a firm believer in the Organizational Pyramid's principles. This system, which emphasizes grouping like items together and assigning specific spaces for everything you own, is an excellent way to streamline your space and tidy up. However, there's a catch – what about items that don't fit neatly into this system? That's where the "relatives and work colleagues" method comes in.
Think like an Organizational Guru
This clever concept comes from Christen Fackler, a renowned organization expert. Her no-nonsense approach to decluttering often involves a complete shift in perspective. Fackler suggests viewing your home as a retail store, complete with storage and display areas, allowing you to keep the essentials within reach while maintaining structure.
In this framework, Fackler categorizes items into two main groups: "family members" and "work colleagues." "Family members" refer to items that perform unique functions, even if they're not identical. On the other hand, "work colleagues" describe items that complement each other or belong in a specific location.
When to Use "Relatives and Work Colleagues"
Imagine facing a conundrum of storing takeout menus. You could place them with their "family members" – maybe by categoriing them with recipes or other dining-related items. Alternatively, if you keep a peanut butter jar in the kitchen and no other utensils that might belong in the same category, you'd group it with "work colleagues" – perhaps with other kitchen supplies like condiments.
By utilizing this method, you can resolve issues with storing similar items together or facing uncertainty over where things belong. The Organizational Pyramid may offer a more straightforward system, but the "relatives and work colleagues" approach allows for more flexible categorization based on individual preferences and needs. Be mindful, however, that over time, categorizing items can become challenging if, for instance, headphones blend into earplugs. Ideally, this method streamlines organization and makes it effortless to locate necessary items.
Consider creating a note in your phone, categorized by room, to list the placements of your miscellaneous items to help you remember where things are located while you grow accustomed to your new system. Stick to using labeled containers and returning containers to their original spots to keep your decluttering efforts successful.
Where to Turn for Inspiration
If you're eager to learn more about the "relatives and work colleagues" method and other organization techniques, check out Christen Fackler's videos or other resources from iOrganize. This approach is a great way to tackle the challenges of organizing miscellaneous items, making it an excellent addition to your organization arsenal.
Bonus Tips and Tricks
- Personalize Your Organization System: Don't be afraid to tweak the recommended organization system to better suit your needs and preferences.
- Use Multipurpose Containers: Buy containers that can serve multiple purposes, such as shoeboxes that slide into dresser drawers or collapsible storage boxes.
- Name Your Containers: Labeling containers will make it easier to understand their contents without opening them.
- Keep It Simple: Keep your organization system simple and easy to maintain. Don't overcomplicate your organization process.
