I'm feeling pretty good about myself right now. I love my new office space!
1. What space did you decide to organize and why?
The space in my home that required the most attention was my office. When my family purchased the home, the office was our junk space because we could just close the door on it and not worry about our kids getting hurt in there. This kept all of the other rooms clutter free for the most part. “If you can’t figure out where it goes, just toss it in the office.”
2. What steps did you take to ensure you completed the space within the 29 day timeline?
I emptied the room right away. I just put everything in file boxes and toted them to the living room. Next, I searched our newspapers for coupons to local stores that carried organizing items, labels, etc. I supplemented by using some existing bins and baskets, and also found a use for this 8-cube cubby that we already had. When the storage was there, it became a matter of sorting and placing. Everything fell into its home from there.
3. What was the hardest part of the challenge for you and how did you overcome it?
Going through all of the mess was tough. I didn’t think that sorting and tossing would be so utterly time consuming. What a nightmare! That said, the end result was a long time coming and I don’t feel defeated when I walk through my office door anymore.
4. What did you do with the “stuff” you were able to purge out of your newly organized space?
All paper goods were recycled and some shredded. Furniture and excess stationary, office supplies and electronics were sold to pay for the cost of the new desk and baskets. I actually came out ahead because that desk and hutch were 50% off! What a steal!
5. Tell me one of your proudest moments during this challenge?
Emptying the room was the best part. I could see the floor and the potential. When your space is filled with junk and papers, it’s hard to see past all of it. It was nice to look at it and smile while I redesigned it in my head.
6. Explain any organizing “tools” you used to help you create additional space and to establish some limits and boundaries?
LABELS! LABELS! LABELS! When I put labels onto my boxes and bins, it set a boundary as to what type of item should go in it. Now, I don’t just place something where it fits or where I don’t have to look at it. I place it where I can find it easily when I need it, because it has a home and I know the address.
7. What is ONE piece of advice you’d give to someone else to encourage them on their organizational journey?
Organizing a space takes time and effort. You may not be able to complete it in one day, but if you give yourself a realistic time frame, you can accomplish anything. When you do, you’ll find that you are happier and have more time and energy to focus on all of the things that you really enjoy doing.
Good Luck!
