I’ve been reaching for Gretchen Rubin’s short and sweet book, Outer Order, Inner Calm as I dive deeper into learning about home organization. She writes, “By getting rid of things I don’t use, don’t need, or don’t love, as well as things that don’t work, don’t fit, or don’t suit — I free my mind — and my shelves for what I truly value”. That phrase has guided me through each closet, drawer, cabinet, and basket as I move through spaces in our home to create a space of clutter-free calm.

However, please don’t get the wrong idea! As a busy mom of two boys and running my real estate business, my “true ideal” doesn’t quite match my real-life situation. Of course there are shoes and toys scattered about. Don’t get me started on the junk drawer (don’t we all have one of those?). But I’m learning to tackle small spaces, take baby steps, and create solutions that are fun for the whole family to take part in. We all benefit when each coat, toothbrush, and sock has a home. Everything seems to run smoother and my mind gets a little break. There’s a little bit more breathing room and a lot less chaos.

I meet with clients regularly about selling or buying their homes in the Omaha Metro Area. In real estate we often stick to the stats of a home — its square footage, how many bedrooms and bathrooms, and HVAC updates. But as we complete walk-throughs, I’m noticing the appearance (or lack) of storage spaces and potential spots for organizational hacks. It’s a bonus to my clients when the pantry layout makes sense, or when the basement includes a spacious storage room. I get excited for them thinking about how they can utilize the interior space of their home as they move in and start placing their things. From the moving boxes to the shelves, they get to create their own sanctuary.

Each home (and homeowner!) has different needs. Home organization is such a personalized journey. Some people love organizing by color, others by size, and others by regular use. What I’ve learned is that there is no one right way to create systems in your home. You’ve got to try different options — some will be a total flop and some a total win! The main focus is that the system works for you and your family, creates a feeling of clutterless calm, and opens up space and time for the more important things.

Promise #3 in Rubin’s book is “Outer Order Creates a Feeling of Sanctuary”. This is one of my favorite takeaways. As I eliminate clutter and other visual noise, I’m noticing the feeling of ease and peacefulness take its place. My time is spent admiring the beautiful items that fill our home with loving memories. What a gift!