How to become more organized in 21 days

I love all things organization. I love baskets, bins, label makers, planners, folders, lists, and calendars. However, I am not an organized person. Although I love when things are in their place, it doesn't come naturally for me.

I have worked very diligently at becoming more organized over the past two years. It has been proven that repeating a task for 21 days forms a habit. It took a few weeks of enforcing these small tasks but they quickly became habits and my home stays more organized because of it.

1. Have a catch all drawer, bin, or basket -  Inevitably, there are going to be small items that really just don't have a home. A cabinet door handle, a lone crayon, half a pack of gum, etc. Having a drawer for them prevents kitchen counter pile-ups. 

2. Create three bins for bills, to file, and receipts -  This was a game changer for us. Whenever I check the mail I don't always have time to pay the bills or file paperwork right away. The bins prevent them from piling up on the desk or counter until we could get to them. It also keeps things from getting misplaced. It only takes 1 minute to put things in the proper bin.

3. Throw away junk mail as soon as you get it - We get so much junk mail. Quickly throwing it away cuts down on clutter.

4. Donate - If you don't use it, get rid of it. It is just creating clutter.

5.. Do one load of laundry each day - Putting one load in the washer each morning and in the dryer each night prevents those dreaded Saturday laundry marathons. 

6. Have a 15 minute "pick-up" session every evening - Set the timer. Straighten the main living area. Fold the blankets. Fluff the pillows. Place items that belong upstairs at the bottom of the steps to be taken up later. You get much more done in 15 minutes of focused time than you would think. 

7. Make your bed each morning - An unmade bed can cause even the cleanest room to look messy. Making your bed each day motivates you and sets the tone for the day. It also eliminates the temptation to climb back in, because who wants to mess up a freshly made bed?

8. Have a schedule... and follow it - On Mondays, I sweep and mop. Tuesdays, I clean the bathrooms. Having a schedule prevents every chore from falling on the same day or feeling like you can never catch up. I know this sounds a little over-the-top, but it really helps me when I stick to it. There are tons of free printables online. My favorites are here + here. 

9. Put things back - This is probably the most important tip and likely the most difficult. Put it back right after you are finished with it. This is something my family constantly works at but if we all make a conscious effort, the house stays much more organized. 21 days makes a habit, 21 days makes a habit, 21 days makes a habit... 

10. Use a planner - Whether you struggle to remember things or not, using a planner is a good idea. It prevents you from missing appointments, double booking yourself, and reminds you when things are due.

11. Use baskets - I use baskets for everything. I have one for blankets, DVD's, toys, and magazines/books. That's just in the living room. They make clean up easy and make your home feel much more organized. Target always has a great selection of baskets along with TJ Max + Marshall's. 

To some, organization comes naturally. Others of us love when things are in order, but don't have the diligence. Some of you are likely being encouraged by your spouse, parents, co-workers, or boss to become more organized. Whatever your reason, I hope you leave motivated + ready to get organized!