5 Organizing Mistakes You Never Knew You Were Making - And How to Fix Them

Organizing your space can feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure of what you're doing wrong. Many people are eager to create a soothing and clutter-free environment, yet they often make unnoticed mistakes that undermine their efforts. In this post, I will share the top five common organizing mistakes I see clients make, discuss how they can hinder your progress, and share practical strategies to overcome them.

Let’s help you move forward in your organizing project... the right way!

Mistake 1: Filling Every Empty Space

A common organizing mistake is the urge to fill every empty corner and shelf with items. While it might seem practical to maximize space, this approach often leads to visual clutter and increased stress levels.

When every surface is packed, your mind can feel the chaos. Research indicates that a cluttered environment can distract and reduce productivity by up to 30%. Instead of feeling accomplished, you may end up feeling anxious.

This can even happen once we are finished organizing. We now find ourselves with a ton of empty storage. You're first inclination may be to fill it up.... but resist the urge! Let the space breath for a couple days (or a couple months) and notice how calming extra room can be.

Fix it: Instead of crowding your space, intentionally leave some areas empty. Evaluate each item and ask, "Does this add value to my life?" Embracing open spaces can create a sense of calm and clear your mind.

Mistake 2: Buying Too Many Storage Solutions

It can be tempting to chase after the latest storage container or organization tool, thinking they are the key to tackling clutter. Many people buy numerous bins and shelves, convinced that more options will lessen their chaos.

However, excessive storage often leads to hoarding, where items accumulate instead of being sorted. A study showed that individuals with more storage solutions were 50% more likely to report feeling overwhelmed about their clutter.

Fix it: Before purchasing new storage items, assess what you already own. Identify which items are truly useful. Consider investing in a few high-quality solutions that meet your specific needs, such as clear bins for visibility or labeled baskets for easier access.

Mistake 3: Taking On Too Large of a Project

Feeling energized to overhaul your entire home in one weekend is common but risky. Tackling extensive projects can quickly lead to burnout. According to studies, people attempting to declutter their homes in a single weekend are 70% more likely to abandon the task due to overwhelming feelings.

This rapid approach often results in unfinished tasks and more clutter, leading to frustration instead of relief. To help prevent the burnout, I will actually only schedule a maximum of 4 hour sessions with clients and I find 3 hours to be the sweet spot.

Fix it: Break large projects into smaller, manageable steps. Aim for tasks that take 15 to 30 minutes. Focus on one drawer or section at a time. Celebrate these small achievements to keep your motivation high and make progress feel attainable.

Mistake 4: Letting Others Influence Your Organizing Work

With so many ideas and opinions available, it’s easy to feel pressured by the views of family, friends, or social media trends. While feedback can be helpful, allowing others to dictate your organizing choices can lead to confusion and dissatisfaction.

Research highlights that individuals who focus on their personal preferences when organizing are 40% more likely to be satisfied with their environments. No two people's homes are alike. Take time to think about your daily habits, favorites interests/items and other factors that will influence how you setup your unique living space.

Fix it: Trust your instincts to create a space that works for you. Focus on what feels right rather than what others recommend. This will help you develop a personalized approach that reflects your tastes and needs.

Mistake 5: Believing Organization is Only About the Stuff

Many people mistakenly think that organizing means only sorting physical belongings. While decluttering your space is vital, it’s equally important to consider the emotional attachment to your items.

Studies have shown that emotional connections with belongings can affect decision-making, causing a cycle of clutter if not addressed. Ignoring these feelings can lead to lasting dissatisfaction with your organizing efforts.

Fix it: Take time to think about the emotional significance of your items. Ask questions like, "Does this item bring me joy?" or "Is it fulfilling a purpose in my life?" Acknowledging your emotions can guide you in making thoughtful choices about what to keep or let go.

Moving Forward with Organization

Creating an organized space involves more than just physical sorting. It's essential to recognize and adjust the habits that may impede your progress. By navigating these five common mistakes—filling every space, over-purchasing storage, taking on large projects, allowing others to influence you, and neglecting the emotional aspects of your belongings—you can achieve a space that reflects order and tranquility.

Remember, organizing is not a race; it's a journey. Embrace gradual change and enjoy the process of building a space that resonates with your lifestyle and values. Happy organizing!