I want to preface this post by saying that I am super organized at work...file folders, calendars, tasks, to-do lists, etc., but often that organization does not find it's way back to my home. I am trying though to be more intentional in my home organization and simplification for this year. Below are some thoughts on the "One-Touch Rule" that I have read about on several sites.
The One-Touch Rule in essence:
When you come across something that is misplaced (toys on the stairs, shoes in the hall, an appointment to be made) handle it right then - "Touch it Only Once" and be done with it. Instead of walking over the toy, put it away. Instead of writing the appointment notes on a sticky note pad, make the appointment. You get the idea?
I have found the One-Touch Rule to be incredibly beneficial the last couple of months. I am notorious for piling items on the stairs to "take up stairs". Now, I physically take those items upstairs and put them away. I used to move laundry from the dryer to the bed to fold "later". Now, I actually fold the clothes the moment they are out of the dryer and then I put them away. I've touched them once and moved on!
I think you get
it. Don't procrastinate putting items away, just do it as you come across them. It's a simple, easy way to maintain a little organization in a home that's usually chaotic with toddler toys, dogs running around, work papers scattered about, etc!
What are your guiding
principles for organization/efficiency? Anything you can recommend that helps keep you organized?
Oh my, this is one area I have always struggled in at home. Like you, at work not so much, but at home, oh my. And now that I work at home, it's like my two personalities are at odds with each other. So I've been working on this and I love the idea of the One Touch principle. I am so bad about moving the piles around, etc. I think I'll try this!
ReplyDeleteI feel like I am horribly disorganized at home. I clean the house and organize and within a couple of minutes it is torn apart. Usually I just get to the mind set of what is the point. After Hayes is in bed I go around and tidy up his whirlwind, and clean the kitchen but usually that is the extent of my cleaning. A clean house makes my soul happy though.
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