Get your summer organizing on and say goodbye to clutter!

June 19, 2023

Summer is right around the corner here in the Northern Hemisphere and it's the perfect time to dive into some organizing projects. 

Instead of thinking of organizing as competing for your attention and time during the long, hot days, here’s why summer is actually a great time for some long delayed projects …

1. Longer Days, More Energy
With longer daylight hours, you have extra time and energy to tackle organizing tasks. Take advantage of the natural light and create a vibrant environment that boosts your motivation.

2. School's Out
If you have kids, their summer break means they're around more often. Instead of seeing their omnipresence as a challenge, use this time to involve the whole family in organizing projects.

You’ve got an excellent chance to teach your children essential skills while making organizing a fun and collaborative experience.

3. Outdoor Spaces Matter
Don't neglect your outdoor spaces during summer. Utilize the pleasant weather to organize your garage, spruce up your garden shed, or create an inviting patio area. A well-organized exterior space provides a relaxing environment to enjoy the outdoors.

4. Embrace Transitions
Summer often brings changes, such as vacations or moves. Embrace these transitions as an opportunity to reevaluate your belongings and streamline your life. Letting go of what no longer serves you creates space for new experiences and adventures.

Now, here are four practical takeaways to kickstart your summer organizing:

1. Set Manageable Goals
Break down your projects into smaller tasks. Achieving these smaller goals will give you a sense of accomplishment and keep you motivated throughout the organizing process. Remember, organizing takes time, so pace yourself.

2. Establish a Schedule
Dedicate specific time slots for organizing sessions. Whether it's a few hours each weekend or short daily sessions, having a schedule helps you stay consistent and make steady progress.

Remember, you can get a lot done in just 15 minutes of focused effort without distractions.

3. Sort and Categorize
Sorting is key to successful organizing. Create super-categories like "keep," "donate," and "discard," then drill down a bit deeper and decide WHERE you’ll keep, donate or toss things.

This process helps you make intentional decisions about your belongings, freeing up space and reducing clutter.

4. Get Help
Don't hesitate to ask for some support. Reach out to friends, family, or even professional organizers for guidance, accountability, and fresh perspectives. 

Sometimes an outside viewpoint can offer valuable insights and help you find effective organizing solutions.

Remember, you can still enjoy summer and get some long avoided projects done, too.

Imagine how much easier everything will be when your garage, your kitchen and your backyard, not to mention your car, bike or scooter, are better organized and functional.Make the most of this summer season by simplifying where you can and bringing extra clarity and peace into your life.

It’s easy when the days are long to think you’ve got all the time in the world, right?And even so, how often are you so busy that you’re a little crabby and short with yourself and maybe even other people … ?That’s where my new book, Calling Bullsh*t on Busy, may be just the summer read you need!And if you prefer audiobooks, it’s now available in that format as well.

Calling Bullsh*t on Busy gives you a revolutionary system so you can get back 1 hour or more of lost time every day!

Here’s to more time and less busy!

Declutter Your Life Podcast by Andrew Mellen. Available on iTunes!