The Snowball Effect
Tackle Clutter with the "Snowball Effect" – Small Projects That Lead to Big Results
When the clutter in your home starts to feel overwhelming, it’s easy to not know where to begin. One of the best ways to get started is with a strategy called "The Snowball Effect." This approach is all about starting small, gaining momentum, and using those small wins to build confidence and energy for tackling bigger projects. Here are some simple, bite-sized projects to help you begin.
5 Simple Steps to Organizing Any Space
Every organizing project follows five basic steps, and they work for any space in your home:
Clear It Out – Take everything out of the space. Lay everything out so you can see it all at once. This will help you get a clear picture of what you have.
Categorize – Group like items together. If you have similar items stored elsewhere in your home, gather them now. You might realize you have multiple sets of things (like 10 coats!) and can downsize.
Curate – This is where the magic happens. Time to donate, toss, or recycle the things that no longer serve you. If it’s worn out, unused, doesn’t fit, or simply doesn’t bring you joy—let it go. Remember Marie Kondo’s mantra: “Does it spark joy?” Or, as William Morris put it: “Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
Contain – Containment is key to keeping things organized. Without bins, baskets, or trays, items just spill over and create chaos. But remember, you need to complete the first three steps before jumping to this one. Otherwise, you’ll just be containing an unorganized mess!
Maintain – Organization is a journey, not a destination! We’re constantly bringing new items into our homes, and our systems need to be refreshed every now and then. Some spaces need more regular attention than others, but a little upkeep goes a long way.
Simple Organizing Projects to Get You Started
1. The Junk Drawer
We all have one. It’s the catch-all space for things with no home: screwdrivers, notepads, batteries, keys, hair ties, pens, and who knows what else. Cleaning it out is quick (about 15 minutes), and it will give you a satisfying sense of accomplishment every time you open it.
Junk Drawer
Make sure to:
Toss trash – Old batteries, broken pens, and random wrappers go straight into the recycle bin.
Return things to their proper homes – Do you have another place for loose change or pens? Move them there.
Organize by type – Use trays, bins, or small containers to keep things in their place.
Repeat monthly – Keep it tidy by checking in regularly.
2. The Front Entryway
The entryway can often become clutter central. Tackle it with the same approach as your junk drawer: start small and build from there.
Make sure to:
Seasonal Swap – If it’s summer, pack away heavy coats, gloves, and scarves. In winter, put away sunscreen, beach toys, and summer hats.
Edit your belongings – Look at your outerwear and shoes. Donate or toss what no longer fits or is in poor condition.
Clear out backpacks – Help kids empty their backpacks daily to avoid the buildup of old papers, snacks, and forgotten treasures.
3. Sock and Underwear Drawer
A surprisingly quick win for a space we use every day!
Make sure to:
Toss what’s worn out – Get rid of socks or underwear that are torn, stretched out, or simply no longer fit.
Organize your socks – If you don’t already have a "lost sock" basket, start one. Pair them weekly, and throw away any single socks that have no match.
Choose your folding style – I love the "file-fold" method for socks, and a simple bin works great for underwear. Consider using divided storage trays for extra neatness.
4. Your Desk (or Kids’ Desk)
Desks can quickly become a dumping ground for papers, school supplies, and random clutter. But a tidy desk can really boost your productivity!
Make sure to:
Go through papers – It's not fun, but it’s essential! Toss anything you don’t need.
Declutter office supplies – You don’t need 50 pens or broken pencils. Donate or recycle what you can, toss the rest.
Consider a rolling cart – If you have the space, a cart for supplies is a game-changer. It keeps your desk clear and your materials organized and within easy reach.
Keep the Snowball Rolling!
Starting small with quick wins can lead to bigger, more impactful organizational changes. I hope these ideas help you begin your own snowball effect and bring a little more order to your space. And remember, if you ever need a hand, I’m just a phone call, text, or email away!
