Small steps to take today to get organized for good

Break larger projects into sections.

Start small to avoid getting overwhelmed by sizable tasks. For example, if you want to organize your kitchen, start by cleaning out your pantry. Focus first on throwing away expired items or donating shelf-stable items you won’t use, then work on arranging like items together the following day (store breakfast foods, condiments and grains on separate shelves, for example).

If you want to tackle your closet, Peeples recommends you start by evaluating what your lifestyle is like today and if your wardrobe reflects it. Acknowledge that styles, our bodies and even our work environments can change over time. Only hang on to things you love and those that are meaningful to you. Try not to get stuck on aspirational thoughts about the clothing you’re going to wear someday. “Instead, celebrate who you are today by letting go of judgments,” she says. Remember that it’s OK to let those pieces go so that someone else can enjoy them.

Whether you have kids, grandchildren or nieces and nephews around the house, it’s never too early to teach children how to organize. “Putting away should be part of the play,” Peeples says. Encouraging kids to get involved can help you let go of perfectionism, appreciate their efforts and value the input of young ones. The more you can involve kids and get them to think creatively, the more they will be willing to participate.