Organize to Reduce Stress

 

What do you feel when you open your closet? Stress? Frustration? What about peace or inspiration? If it’s not peace or inspiration or something like it, then your day has already gotten off to a negative start. Imagine what it’s like to open your closet and have clothes that are flattering, clean, and in good repair. Imagine what it’s like to be excited at the possibilities of your look for the day and be able to pull an outfit together in a minute or two.

Fun fact: people wear about 20% of the items in their wardrobe, 80% of the time. This is often referred to as the 80/20 Rule. This rule applies to all sorts of things and also suggests a closet that is 100% full or bursting is hard to manage but a closet 80% full and organized is easier to navigate. Less is better and fit matters! Your clothes will also thank you as they’ll not be crammed together and suffer possible damage. Less ironing too!

 

Organization Quick Tips

• Only have ready-to-wear clothes in your closet. Anything that needs laundered or repaired should be separated to be dealt with.
• If it doesn’t fit, remove it. Hoping to fit into something one day is actually demoralizing rather than motivating. If you’re reluctant to let something go, you can store away any treasured items.
• Organize in a way that makes sense to you. Perhaps it’s by colour or style. Maybe you group all your blazers together and separate all your jeans from your leggings.
• Organize by season. If several bulky sweaters are taking up room in your closet, store them in a tote under your bed during the warmer months.
• Accessories, shoes, and underwear benefit from being organized too.
• Get creative! There are lots of ways to organize with totes, baskets, and shelving. Make your closet a fun and time management space.

 

Sometimes we keep clothes for sentimental or nostalgic reasons. Perhaps your favourite aunt knit you that scarf and it’s become more of a keepsake than an active garment in your wardrobe. Consider storing it away with similar momentos, displaying it in an artistic way in your home, or taking a photo of it and donating it for someone else to love.

Being disorganized is rarely about being lazy or scattered. It’s more often about being reluctant to make decisions or not knowing where to start so if organizing your wardrobe feels really daunting, start small with your sock drawer. Hiring a professional for advice and assistance is also a surefire road to success.

 

Just like making your bed every morning, having an organized closet trains your brain to embrace order. It builds confidence and is a step toward better daily habits.

An organized closet:

• Saves time
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Promotes a sense of control
• Improves mental clarity and can increase productivity
• Is a gateway to organizing other parts of your life.

Take charge!

by Angie Davey