Ask The Real Mr. Organized / How can I organize around the way my family actually lives instead of the way I wish we lived?
Decluttering & organizing 101

How can I organize around the way my family actually lives instead of the way I wish we lived?

Mr. OrganizedMr. Organized's Answer

Train them to make a change. If that doesn’t work and they will not change or for example, a spouse won’t go along with the program it is time for a reality check: 1. Get them traineed Or 2. Change your expectations/ wishes so you are not frustrated — it can only be #1 or #2.

Put the things you reach for most often in the easiest spots, and reserve high, low or deep storage for occasional-use supplies. Group like items together so you can see what is running low before buying more.

A good system should be simple enough to maintain on a busy day. Try it for a week or two, notice where items actually land, and adjust the location or container instead of expecting everyone to remember a complicated rule.