5 Things Not To Do When Decluttering
Instead of providing a list of organizing and decluttering tips and strategies, wouldn't it be more helpful to know what NOT to do when trying to harness the chaos in your garage?
These are five missteps that are most common to conquer clutter:
Organize First; Buy Second
Do not go out and buy a ton of storage pieces and supplies before you sort through your garage. Yes, there's a lot of enticing storage system available, but they won't do you any good unless they fit the space. I recommend cleaning out first, assessing what you REALLY need, and then buying a few tool holders to start. You can always add later.
Don't Bite Off More Than You Can Chew
Do not set aside an ENTIRE day to organize your WHOLE garage. Very few people have the energy and/or focus to spend 8 hours organizing. You'll likely become frustrated and less efficient as the day progresses. It's much better to spend a few hours — 2 or 3 — on one project or space. This way you'll feel motivated to do more, not be burned out by the process.
Complete Each Task — Completely
Of course, you will need to sort things into categories. But here's the crucial part: Once you have decided where something is going to go — take it there. No need to keep all your tools in one place and sort out later. This will take much more time. Try to sort as much as you can
If you found your wrench scattered on the floor, go pick it up and place it together with the other wrenches and not with ALL OTHER tools. Why sort it out AGAIN if you can start sorting out while cleaning up. While you're at, use a wrench organizer to sort all your wrenches in one place. So when you need them in the future, they will be within reach.
Rome Wasn't Built In A Day
Do not think that once you've organized your space, that you are done. You'll feel like a failure when you have to clean it up again in a month. Realize that while you have created a new, efficient, and logical system-- reality check, you are still not done. There is no autopilot. You should expect regular upkeep.
Good Enough is Enough
Don't stress yourself too much. Your space is used for work. It might be organized today, and back to its common clutter look the next day. And that's completely acceptable! You will ultimately be disappointed if perfection is your goal. The goal is to set up an organized workstation that works well for your needs and would make everything accessible for you. That is a success.
Check out these 3pc Swivel Head Ratchet from Olsa Tools.