Tidying up and putting things in order can sometimes feel like a daunting task. If you’re anything like me, you might find yourself procrastinating and avoiding the clutter rather than dealing with it head-on. The sound of crickets chirping in the background is much more appealing than sorting through a pile of random items in your home. But fear not, because Julianna Pinder, also known as “The ClutterBug,” has developed a philosophy that can help you find the best organizing style that suits your tidying habits.
The ClutterBug philosophy is all about understanding that there are four main organizing styles: Butterfly, Ladybug, Cricket, and Bee. Each style has its own unique approach to organizing, and by identifying which one resonates with you the most, you can establish simple systems that will make tidying up a breeze.
For those who have a Butterfly organizing style, you likely love having many collections and enjoy displaying your treasures. Keeping things in order may not be your top priority, but having a beautiful and visually pleasing space is. In this case, Pinder suggests using shelves, bins, and storage baskets to establish designated spaces for your various collections.
If you have a Ladybug organizing style, you’re likely someone who enjoys labeling and categorizing items. You like to keep things neat and organized in drawers and cabinets, and you appreciate having a place for everything. Pinder recommends using labels and dividers to create a structured and organized space.
Cricket organizing style individuals tend to tackle tasks in short bursts of energy. They like to have surface areas clear of clutter and prefer a minimalistic approach. For Crickets, Pinder suggests utilizing decorative boxes and bins to quickly store away things that may otherwise clutter up the space.
Finally, there’s the Bee organizing style, which is all about functionality and efficiency. Bees like to have everything within reach and enjoy having easy access to their everyday items. Pinder recommends using carts and portable storage solutions that can be moved around to keep things organized and easily accessible.
No matter which organizing style you resonate with, it’s important to remember that tidying up is a personal journey. Don’t get caught up in the trends or Pinterest-perfect expectations. Find what works for you and embrace it. Whether you’re a Butterfly, Ladybug, Cricket, or Bee, having a clutter-free and organized home will bring you joy and peace of mind.
The ClutterBug Philosophy
The ClutterBug Philosophy, created by organizing expert Cass Aarssen, is all about finding the perfect organizing style that suits your tidying habits. Aarssen believes that understanding your clutterbug style is the key to creating an organized and functional home.
Aarssen identifies four main clutterbug styles: Butterfly, Cricket, Bee, and Ladybug. Each style represents a different way of approaching tidying and organizing.
- Butterflies: Butterflies are creative and spontaneous individuals who thrive in organized chaos. They are likely to have a collection of beautiful items, but struggle to establish a specific type of organization. Butterflies enjoy bursts of deep cleaning and organizing, but their lifestyle often leads to clutter.
- Crickets: Crickets are the complete opposite of Butterflies. They prefer a clean and uncluttered space. Crickets strive for perfection and have high expectations for their home. However, because they are focused on maintaining order, they often forget to establish a system that works for them. This can lead to disorganized spaces hidden behind closed doors.
- Bees: Bees are busy and highly organized individuals who have a schedule for everything. They keep their homes tidy through quick, small bursts of organizing. Bees use labeling, storage bins, and baskets to keep their belongings in order. They are motivated by displaying their organizing skills and crafting beautiful spaces.
- Ladybugs: Ladybugs are a combination of Butterflies and Bees. They find a balance between having a beautiful display and a practical organization system. Ladybugs prioritize function over aesthetics and are likely to use professionals to help them edit and organize their belongings.
To use the ClutterBug Philosophy in your own home, Aarssen suggests following these tips:
- Identify your clutterbug style: Take the ClutterBug Style Quiz to determine your organizing style.
- Set realistic expectations: Understand that you can’t always have a perfectly organized home, and that’s okay.
- Choose a tidying schedule that fits your lifestyle: Whether it’s tackling one small area each day or dedicating a weekend to deep cleaning, find a schedule that works for you.
- Don’t forget about storage: Invest in storage solutions like shelves, bins, and carts to keep your belongings organized and easily accessible.
- Focus on function over aesthetics: While it’s important to have a beautiful home, prioritize creating a functional and practical organization system.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, reach out to professionals or organizing buddies for support and advice.
- Keep up with current organizing trends: Stay informed about the latest organizing tips and tricks to make tidying easier and more efficient.
With the ClutterBug Philosophy, anyone can establish a system that works for their unique organizing style and create a clutter-free home.
1 The Ladybug
The Ladybug is one of the four organizing styles identified by ClutterBug, a popular organizing philosophy created by professional organizer Cassandra Aarssen. Each style represents different ways people approach and deal with clutter and tidying habits.
This organizing style is called the Ladybug because just like a ladybug, you like to focus on the details. You enjoy diving deep into the nitty-gritty of organizing and finding a place for everything. Unlike some of the other clutterbugs, you don’t mind going through every single item to make sure it’s in its rightful place.
When it comes to organizing, you strive for perfection. You want your space to look like it came straight out of a Pinterest-perfect magazine. Every room, cabinet, and shelf is meticulously organized and arranged. By labeling everything and sorting items into neat containers, you create a visually pleasing and clutter-free environment.
However, it’s important to note that being a Ladybug doesn’t mean you spend all your time organizing. You know when to stop and enjoy life, without getting overwhelmed by the need to keep things perfectly organized. You understand that the ultimate goal of organizing is to make your life easier, not to spend all your time tidying up.
Lauren Saltman, a professional organizer, made an interesting observation about Ladybugs. She suggests that Ladybugs often have a love for collecting things or have a particular interest in crafts. This makes organizing even more important to you because you have various collections and crafting supplies to manage.
So, when it’s time to tackle a cluttered cabinet or shelf, you dive right in with enthusiasm. You meticulously display your collections and keep everything in perfect order. Your internet browsing history is filled with organizing ideas and solutions, and you’re always looking for ways to improve your already organized space.
Don’t forget, though, that organizing is not just about the physical space. It’s also about creating a system and schedule that works for you. Julianna Pinder, an organizing expert, suggests that Ladybugs should strive for an organized lifestyle rather than just an organized home. This means finding an organizing routine and schedule that suits your specific needs and incorporating it into your daily life.
If you’re a Ladybug and you want to further enhance your organizing skills, there are plenty of resources available. From books and websites to professionals and online courses, there are endless options to choose from. A popular book that many Ladybugs have found helpful is “The Home Edit” by Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin. You can find it on Amazon or your favorite bookstore.
Remember, being a Ladybug is a unique organizing style, and it can bring a sense of satisfaction and joy to your life. Embrace your love for all things organized and continue to maintain your clutter-free and visually stunning space.
Keep organization systems simple
When it comes to staying organized, it’s important to establish quick and easy systems that fit our lifestyle and tidying habits. The ClutterBug philosophy emphasizes simplicity and finding the organizing style that works best for you.
Having high expectations for complex organizing systems can oftentimes lead to frustration and ultimately give up on the whole organizing process. Instead, strive for simplicity when creating your organization systems.
Julianna from The ClutterBug recommends starting small and focusing on one area at a time. Whether it’s a drawer, cabinet, or shelf, tackle one space before moving on to the next. By breaking tasks down, it becomes easier to stay motivated and keep up with tidying.
One organizing principle that The ClutterBug philosophy loves is labeling. Labeling bins, baskets, and drawers can make it easy to find and put away items. Use labels that are easy to read and can be easily seen from a distance. Whether you prefer printed labels or handwritten ones, find what works best for you.
Julianna also suggests using clear bins and containers. Being able to see the contents inside makes it easier to find items quickly. Instead of spending time searching through cluttered bins, you can simply look at the labels or glance inside to find what you need.
Another great tip is to avoid perfection. While it’s important to keep things organized, it’s also important to remember that perfection is not the end goal. Life happens, and things may sometimes get a little messy. Rather than getting caught up in perfection, focus on maintaining a clutter-free and functional space.
When purchasing organizers and storage solutions, don’t forget to consider your lifestyle and the types of items you have. Think about what you love and what brings you joy. Instead of buying every organizing gadget you see on Amazon or Target, invest in items that will truly help you stay organized and motivated.
Julianna Saltman, the founder of ClutterBug, suggests organizing your space based on how you naturally think and move. If you like rolling carts for crafting supplies or prefer open shelving for frequently used items, embrace the organizing style that works best for you.
In conclusion, keeping organization systems simple is essential for maintaining an organized and clutter-free home. Establishing easy-to-follow systems, labeling items, and embracing your natural organizing style will help you stay organized and motivated to keep clutter at bay.
Opt for bins and baskets
When it comes to organizing your space, choosing the right storage containers can make all the difference. Bins and baskets are a popular choice because they are not only functional, but they can also add a touch of style to your home.
Regardless of your organizing style or the type of items you have, there are organizers available in various sizes and styles, making it easy to find ones that match your aesthetic. You can even choose bins and baskets that are transparent or have labels, allowing you to easily see what’s inside without having to open them.
Lauren Saltman, a professional organizer and the founder of The ClutterBug, says that bins and baskets are particularly useful for those who love to have their items on display. “If you are someone who loves to see your things and have them out in the open, using bins and baskets can create a beautiful and organized display,” she suggests.
Additionally, bins and baskets are perfect for organizing ongoing projects. Whether you’re a crafter or someone who likes to have a few projects going on at once, having a designated bin or basket for each project can help keep everything in one place. This way, you don’t have to worry about forgetting where you left off or misplacing any materials.
One of the main advantages of using bins and baskets is that they can work well with any lifestyle. If you’re someone who loves perfection and everything in its place, you can choose containers that match your type-A personality. On the other hand, if you’re more laid-back and don’t like getting too organized, you can simply toss things into bins and baskets without worrying too much about perfection.
According to Saltman, having open storage options like bins and baskets can actually help motivate you to stay organized. “When your items are visible and easy to access, you are more likely to tackle any clutter or messes that come up,” she says. Rather than hiding things away in drawers or closed containers, having your items in plain sight can serve as a reminder to put them back in their designated place.
Not only do bins and baskets make tidying up easier, but they can also help you establish a better schedule. If you have bins or baskets for specific tasks or activities, you can easily grab what you need and get to work. Whether it’s a project bin with all the necessary tools or a basket of cleaning supplies, having everything organized and within reach can save you time and keep you motivated.
Finally, bins and baskets can be a great solution if you love collecting things. Whether it’s books, figurines, or other collectibles, having designated containers can help prevent clutter and keep your collections organized. You can even use different sizes and types of bins and baskets to create a visually appealing display.
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If you’re ready to find the perfect bins and baskets for your organizing needs, you can check out online retailers like Amazon for a wide selection of options. Remember, finding the right storage containers can make a world of difference in keeping your space neat and organized.
Label everything
Labeling is a crucial aspect of the organizing process, especially for someone who follows the ClutterBug philosophy. It helps bring simplicity and order to your space, making it easier to find things quickly and efficiently.
When organizing, it’s important to label not only your cabinets and shelves but also the contents inside them. This way, you can easily locate items without having to dig through the entire cabinet or shelf. Labeling also helps you remember where things belong, preventing you from creating more clutter by leaving items all around.
By labeling containers or baskets, you can create a system that works best for your specific organizing style. For example, if you’re a visual organizer like Lauren from ClutterBug, you may prefer using clear containers or labeling the front of baskets. On the other hand, if you’re a practical organizer, you might opt for labels on the top or sides of containers for a quick overview of what’s inside.
Labeling is also helpful when it comes to keeping track of small collections or crafting supplies. Julianna Pinder, a professional organizer, often adds labels to her clients’ craft bins to make it easier to find specific materials when working on a project. This saves time that would otherwise be spent sifting through a pile of supplies.
Labeling can also be a motivational tool. According to organizing professionals like Julianna Pinder, labeling systems can create a sense of accomplishment and a feeling of progress. Seeing labeled containers and shelves helps individuals feel more motivated to continue tackling their organizing projects, knowing that they are making their home more functional and beautiful.
For those who may struggle with remembering where everything goes, labeling is a game-changer. It eliminates the need to constantly think about where to put things once they’re used. As Julianna Pinder says, “Labeling takes away the ‘crickets’ moment when my clients forget where they’re supposed to put things. It adds simplicity to their life.”
Labeling your belongings can be done in a variety of ways. One popular method is using a label maker, which allows you to create clear, professional-looking labels. Another option is using adhesive label tags or even masking tape with handwritten labels. The choice of labeling method depends on personal preference and the aesthetics you want to achieve.
Whether you choose to use simple handwritten labels or go for more decorative options found on websites like Pinterest, the important thing is to incorporate labeling into your organizing routine. So, start putting labels on your cabinets, shelves, and storage containers, and see how it transforms your space and your life!
2 The Cricket
In The ClutterBug Philosophy, there are four main organizing styles or “Bugs” that people tend to fall into. The second style is called “The Cricket”.
The Cricket types don’t like labeling or using containers for their items. They prefer to have their belongings out in the open where they can see them. The internet and other popular organization trends tend to focus on using containers and labeling everything, but The Cricket doesn’t find joy in that.
Lauren, the founder of the ClutterBug Philosophy, suggests that rather than focusing on strict labeling and organizing rules, it’s important to find a system that works well for you personally. For The Cricket, this means having items easily visible and accessible.
The Cricket types often have collections or specific interests that they enjoy displaying. For example, having a cabinet filled with their favorite mugs or a cart with various crafting materials. The idea is to keep things simple and organized while still being able to see and enjoy their belongings.
Lauren adds that having things out in the open can act as a visual motivator to keep organized. When items are closed away in cabinets or hidden in baskets, it’s easier to forget about them and let clutter build up.
While The Cricket may not be the most minimalist or organized style, it’s a valid and common way of managing belongings. The philosophy helps individuals understand their particular organizing needs and tackle clutter in their own way.
Let go of perfectionism
In the world of organizing, there are different types of people with different organizing styles. Some people are natural-born organizers, while others struggle to establish and maintain order in their homes. If you are someone who falls into the latter category, don’t worry – you are not alone.
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that everything needs to be perfect and pristine. You may feel like you need to have all your belongings neatly stored away in matching containers, categorized and labeled to perfection. But this kind of perfectionism can be overwhelming and discouraging, especially if you’re not naturally inclined to be super organized.
The ClutterBug philosophy believes in going with the flow and working with your natural organizing style. It encourages you to look past perfect pictures on Pinterest or the internet and focus on what works best for you and your home.
One simple strategy is to keep the items you use most frequently easily accessible and visible. Instead of storing them in a cabinet or drawer, consider keeping them on the surface of a countertop or in a simple container. This way, you can easily grab what you need without having to rummage through cluttered drawers or cabinets.
When it comes to organizing projects, it’s important to set realistic expectations and break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps. Don’t get overwhelmed by trying to tackle everything at once. Instead, focus on one area or category at a time, such as organizing your closet or decluttering your office.
While it’s tempting to follow the latest organizing trends, like the KonMari method, it’s important to remember that what works for others may not work for you. It’s easy to get caught up in the hype and feel like you need to declutter and organize your whole life in one go. But the truth is, organizing is a personal journey, and you can choose to go at your own pace.
Don’t forget to take into account your specific needs and lifestyle when organizing. If you have young children, for example, it’s unrealistic to expect everything to be perfectly neat and organized all the time. Embrace a little bit of chaos and find systems that work for your family.
Avoid getting caught up in the idea of a Pinterest-perfect home. Life is messy, and trying to strive for perfection will likely leave you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. Instead, focus on creating a home that is functional and suits your needs.
If you love crafting or have a particular hobby, find a space in your home where you can indulge in your passion. Use baskets or drawers to store your supplies and keep them easily accessible. Don’t worry about having a picture-perfect crafting room – the important thing is to have a space where you can enjoy your hobbies without feeling overwhelmed by clutter.
The ClutterBug philosophy encourages you to prioritize what’s important to you and let go of perfectionism. It’s okay to have some clutter – as long as it doesn’t negatively impact your life or make it difficult to find what you need. Remember, organizing is a journey, and finding systems that work for you will ultimately lead to a more organized and stress-free life.
Set up an organizing schedule
If you struggle to maintain a clutter-free and organized life, then setting up an organizing schedule could be just the thing you need. The ClutterBug philosophy suggests that by keeping a regular schedule for tidying up, you can make it easier to stay organized and maintain a sense of order in your home.
Here are some simple tips for creating an organizing schedule that works for you:
- Identify your organizing style: Before you can create an organizing schedule, it’s important to understand your own organizing style. You might be a “Bee,” who prefers to have everything on display, or a “Butterfly,” who likes to have items labeled and organized in specific homes. Knowing your organizing style will help you create a schedule that aligns with your preferences.
- Choose a schedule that fits your life: It’s important to choose a schedule that is realistic and works with your daily routine. For some, it might be easier to set aside a specific time each day for organizing, while others might prefer to dedicate a few hours each week to tackle bigger projects. Find a schedule that suits your needs and expectations.
- Start small: When creating an organizing schedule, it’s often best to start small. Rather than overwhelming yourself with a long list of projects to tackle, choose one small area or shelf to organize. This could be something as simple as a drawer or a small collection of items. By starting small, you’ll build momentum and confidence to tackle larger organizing projects later on.
- Keep it simple: The key to maintaining an organizing schedule is to keep it simple. Don’t try to tackle too many projects at once or set unrealistic expectations for yourself. Focus on one area at a time and break larger projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This will help you stay motivated and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.
- Add labeling and organizing systems: To make your organizing schedule more effective, consider adding labeling and organizing systems to your home. Labeling bins and baskets can make it easier to find and put away items, while organizing systems can help you categorize and store things in a way that makes sense to you. These systems will make it easier to maintain organization in the long run.
- Get someone to help: If you find it difficult to stick to your organizing schedule on your own, consider enlisting the help of a friend, family member, or professional organizer. Having someone to hold you accountable and assist you with organizing projects can make the process more enjoyable and productive.
Remember, organizing is an ongoing process, and it’s important to be patient with yourself. By setting up an organizing schedule and sticking to it, you can create a clutter-free and organized home that brings you peace and simplicity.
Document your progress
When it comes to organizing and tidying your home, it’s important to document your progress. Keeping track of how far you’ve come can be incredibly motivating and help you stay on track with your goals. Whether you’re tackling your cluttered drawers or going for that pinterest-perfect home, documenting your progress is a great way to see how far you’ve come and celebrate your accomplishments.
There are a few different ways you can document your progress. One option is to take before and after photos of the areas you’re organizing. Seeing the transformation visually can be incredibly satisfying and provide the motivation you need to keep going. You can also create a checklist or list of the areas you want to organize and check them off as you go. This can help keep you focused and ensure you don’t forget any spaces that need your attention.
Another option is to create a progress journal or notebook. Use this journal to jot down your thoughts, feelings, and any ideas or tips you come across during the organizing process. This can be a great way to reflect on your progress and also serve as a resource for future organizing projects. Plus, it can be fun to look back on how far you’ve come.
Don’t forget to label your newly organized spaces. Labeling your bins, drawers, or shelves can help you maintain your newly organized order. It’s easy to forget where things go, especially when life gets busy. By labeling your storage areas, you can easily find things and quickly put them back in their proper place. Plus, it adds a nice touch of organization and makes your spaces look even more beautiful.
Julianna Saltman, an organizer and blogger at “The ClutterBug Philosophy”, suggests using a labeling system that works for your lifestyle. If you’re someone who loves pretty things, you can use colorful labels or even create your own beautiful labels. If you prefer a more minimalistic approach, simple and clear labels will do the trick. The key is to establish a system that works for you so that you’ll actually use it.
Lauren, a professional organizer from “Oh, I’m Organized!”, says, “There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to organizing. You have to find what works for you and your lifestyle.” While Pinterest may have some amazing tips and tricks, it’s important to remember that what works for someone else may not work for you. Focus on finding systems and storage solutions that align with your needs and habits rather than striving for perfection.
So, whether you’re just starting your organizing journey or well on your way, don’t forget to document your progress. Celebrate the little victories, learn from the challenges, and keep rolling with the clutterbug philosophy. Before you know it, you’ll have an organized home that reflects your style and makes your life a little easier.
3 The Bee
In The ClutterBug Philosophy, there are four main organizing styles: The Butterfly, The Bee, The Ladybug, and The Cricket. Each style has its own unique characteristics and preferences when it comes to organizing and tidying up.
The Bee is all about perfection and strives to keep everything in its designated place. They love using baskets, bins, and containers to keep their belongings organized. The Bee, like Julianna, keeps collections of crafting supplies and other items neatly organized and labeled.
The Bee is someone who enjoys having a schedule and sticking to it. They love keeping track of projects and to-do lists, and they find organizing to be therapeutic. The Bee will often choose a specific day or time to dedicate to organizing and tidying up their home.
Lauren, a professional organizer, suggests that it’s important for The Bee to have systems in place to keep their things organized. They can use shelves, hooks, and other storage solutions to keep items easily accessible but also visually appealing. The Bee loves keeping their spaces calm and clutter-free.
While The Bee loves organization, they can sometimes become too focused on perfection and forget to enjoy their time and the other important things in life. They may spend too much time keeping things organized and not enough time actually enjoying their home and lifestyle.
In order to keep their organizing habits balanced, The Bee can take advice from someone like Lauren Pinder Saltman, who suggests using systems like “editing” and “simply” techniques. For example, The Bee can edit down their collections to just the items they truly love and use, making it easier to keep things organized and clutter-free.
The Bee can also embrace simplicity by focusing on what truly adds value and joy to their life. Rather than getting caught up in the latest trends and must-have items, The Bee can choose to let go of things that no longer serve a purpose and make space for the things that truly matter.
In a world full of distractions, The Bee can benefit from taking a step back from the internet and social media. Instead of browsing online shopping sites like Amazon and adding items to their cart, The Bee can focus on what they truly need and love in their home.
Overall, The Bee’s organizing style adds a particular level of perfection and order to their life. However, it’s important for them to find a balance and not get too caught up in the process of tidying and organizing. By embracing simplicity and letting go of unnecessary items, The Bee can create a calm and clutter-free home that truly reflects their lifestyle.
Opt for a craft cart
If you’re someone who loves to collect craft supplies and often finds yourself surrounded by piles of paper, scissors, and glue, a craft cart might be the perfect solution for you. Craft carts are portable and provide a convenient way to store and organize all of your crafting materials.
Julianna Pinder, a professional organizer, says that craft carts are a great option because they allow you to keep everything in one place. “Craft carts have drawers and shelves that make it easy to establish a set schedule for your crafting projects,” she says. “You can simply pull out the cart when you want to work on something and then easily put it away when you’re done.”
The internet is full of craft cart inspiration, with many DIY enthusiasts sharing their perfectly organized carts on Pinterest. However, Pinder suggests that you don’t need to strive for a Pinterest-perfect cart. “It’s important to remember that everyone’s craft cart will look different,” she says. “What matters is that it works for you and helps you stay organized.”
One popular option is a craft cart with closed drawers. This allows you to hide away any mess or clutter, giving your workspace a neater appearance. Another option is a cart with open shelves or bins, which makes it easy to see and access your supplies at a glance.
Stephanie Saltman, a professional organizer, loves the versatility of craft carts. “You can easily edit and change the contents of the cart as your needs and interests evolve,” she says. “If you’re someone who loves to try out different crafts, having a craft cart allows you to keep everything organized and easily switch between projects.”
If you’re someone who loves to display your collections, a craft cart can also be a great way to do this. Saltman suggests using clear bins or baskets to store and display your supplies. “This way, you can still see everything, but it’s organized and contained,” she says. “You can even add labels to the bins or baskets to make it even easier to find what you’re looking for.”
When it comes to choosing a craft cart, there are plenty of options available. Saltman recommends checking out stores like Target or searching online for the perfect cart that fits your style and storage needs. “There are so many different carts out there, from simple and functional to trendy and stylish,” she says. “Find one that speaks to you and complements your craft space.”
Whether you’re a beginner crafter or a seasoned DIY enthusiast, a craft cart can be a game-changer in helping you stay organized. It will make it easier to find and access your supplies, keep your workspace clutter-free, and inspire you to create more. So, don’t let the crickets keep you from your crafting time – opt for a craft cart and start enjoying a more organized and simple creative life!
Establish a routine and ace time-management
When it comes to organizing and tidying up, establishing a routine can be a game-changer. Without a routine, your space can quickly become cluttered and disorganized. By creating a consistent schedule and sticking to it, you can stay on top of your tidying habits and maintain a clean and orderly home.
Julianna Pinder, a professional organizer and founder of ClutterBug, suggests starting your day with a quick surface tidy. This means taking a few minutes to put away any items that are out of place and clearing off any clutter on countertops, tables, and other surfaces. By setting this simple expectation for yourself, it becomes easier to stay organized throughout the day.
If you have specific projects or tasks that need to be done, Pinder recommends creating a to-do list or using a planner. This allows you to prioritize your tasks and ensures that nothing gets overlooked. By breaking down larger projects into smaller, more manageable tasks, you can tackle them one at a time and make progress without feeling overwhelmed.
For those who struggle with time-management, Pinder suggests using a timer to stay on track. Set a specific amount of time for each task or project, and challenge yourself to complete it before the timer goes off. This can help you stay focused and avoid getting sidetracked.
In addition to establishing a routine, Pinder also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clutter-free environment. She suggests regularly going through your belongings and getting rid of anything you no longer need or love. This not only helps to keep your space organized, but it also prevents clutter from building up.
Furthermore, Pinder recommends having designated spaces for specific items in your home. For example, you could have a rolling cart for your cleaning supplies or a display shelf for your favorite collections. By assigning specific homes for your belongings, it becomes easier to find things when you need them.
When it comes to time-management, simplicity is key. Pinder advises keeping your schedule as simple as possible and avoiding overcommitting yourself. It’s better to under-schedule and have some free time than to constantly feel overwhelmed and stressed.
Julianna Pinder and other organizing professionals agree that everyone has a different organizing style and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s important to choose a routine and approach to organizing that fits your lifestyle and meets your individual needs.
So, whether you prefer a minimalist approach or love having collections of items on display, finding a routine that works for you is key. By establishing a consistent schedule, simplifying your life, and staying organized, you can ace time-management and keep clutter at bay.
Keep everything in one place
When it comes to organizing, the ClutterBug philosophy suggests that keeping everything in one place can make your life much easier. Without little expectations of perfection and Pinterest-perfect trends, this philosophy encourages simplicity and practicality in organizing your belongings.
One of the ways to implement this philosophy is by choosing a particular space, like a cabinet or shelf, and keeping all your items in that one place. Instead of having things scattered all over the house, someone following the ClutterBug philosophy would focus on keeping everything in one designated spot.
In order to keep things organized, labeling is important. Simple baskets or containers labeled with the contents will make it easier for you to find what you need. Taking the time to label things helps you avoid wasting time looking for specific items.
While it may be tempting to have different types of storage for different items, the ClutterBug philosophy suggests that having one place for everything will help you stay organized. Instead of deep-diving into multiple storage options, sticking to one simple method helps you stay motivated and avoids the stress of having to choose the “perfect” storage solution for each type of item.
Lauren, the creator of the ClutterBug philosophy, made this approach simple and easy to follow for everyone. Professionals and clients alike have found success in using the ClutterBug method to tackle their organizing projects. Instead of going with the latest organizing trends they see on the internet, they choose to keep things practical and efficient.
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Following the ClutterBug philosophy and keeping everything in one place can help you create simplicity and beauty in your life. By organizing your belongings in a practical manner, you can spend less time searching for things and more time enjoying your day.
4 The Butterfly
The fourth organizing style in the ClutterBug Philosophy is called “The Butterfly.” People who identify with this style are often drawn to pretty and decorative items, and they like to display them. They may have multiple collections and enjoy rotating their display items to keep things fresh.
Butterflies are often surface-level organizers. They like to keep their spaces looking beautiful, but their drawers and cabinets may be in disarray. They may have some clutter, but it’s usually in the form of pretty objects that they enjoy.
Because the Butterfly is focused on the surface, tidying up can be easier for them compared to those with a higher clutterbug score. They can quickly straighten up their space and make it look nice without necessarily deep organizing.
Julianna Pinder suggests that the Butterfly style conquer their surface-level clutter by using open storage solutions. Display shelves, beautiful bins, and open cabinets can help those with a Butterfly style keep their items in order while still showcasing their collections.
While the Butterfly may struggle with deep organization, they often excel in creative projects and DIY. They are likely to have a dedicated crafting area with all the supplies they need for their various creations. These projects may be more important to them than maintaining organizational systems throughout their home.
If you are a Butterfly, it’s essential to keep in mind that your style is different from others. It’s easy to get caught up in trends and expectations of what a “organized” home should look like. However, embracing your style and accepting that you may have bursts of clutter from time to time adds a touch of your unique personality to your space.
Lauren and other professional organizers suggest that those with a Butterfly style focus on keeping their collections and pretty items under control. Rather than trying to organize everything to perfection, create designated spaces for your favorite things. Use shelves or display cabinets to showcase your collections, and keep your crafting supplies in drawers or bins so you can easily find them when needed.
Remember, it’s all about finding a balance between keeping your space beautiful and functional for your lifestyle.
Edit your belongings
When it comes to organizing, Lauren Pinder, the founder of ClutterBug, suggests starting by editing your belongings. This means going through your stuff and deciding what you want to keep and what you no longer need or want.
One way to tackle this task is by targeting one area or category at a time. For example, you could start with your closet and then move on to your kitchen or bathroom. By breaking it down into smaller tasks, it becomes easier to stay motivated and get the work done.
Lauren Pinder points out that keeping an open mind is important during this process. While you may have a particular vision in mind, striving for perfection can be overwhelming and discouraging. Instead, focus on keeping only the items that you truly love and use.
Once you have decided which items to keep, it’s time to find a home for them. Pinder suggests using storage bins, shelves, and other organizers to help keep things organized. Labeling can also be helpful, especially if you have multiple bins or shelves.
While it’s important to stay on schedule and establish a routine for keeping things organized, Lauren Pinder also understands that life sometimes gets in the way. However, she emphasizes that even a little bit of organizing each day can make a big difference in the long run.
As you work through the process of editing your belongings, it’s easy to get caught up in the trends and the desire for a Pinterest-perfect home. However, Pinder advises against this mindset. Instead of focusing on how your home looks to others, she suggests prioritizing functionality and what works best for you and your family.
In the age of the internet and social media, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all the organizing tips and tricks out there. While it can be helpful to get inspiration from professionals and through online resources, Pinder recommends staying true to your own organizing style.
Ultimately, the ClutterBug philosophy is all about finding what works best for you and your home. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or a more visually appealing display, the key is to edit your belongings and put them in a home that makes sense for your lifestyle.
Use clear bins to contain clutter
We all have a little bit of clutter in our homes. Some of us may have more than others, but regardless of the amount, it’s important to find ways to keep it contained and organized. One simple and effective solution is to use clear bins.
Closed containers, such as clear bins, can be a great way to keep your clutter hidden and out of sight. The transparency of these bins makes it easy to see what’s inside without having to open them and rummage through everything. You can also label the bins to help you quickly find what you’re looking for.
Organizers like Lauren Pinder, the mastermind behind the ClutterBug philosophy, also believe that clear bins are a great choice for keeping clutter at bay. When you choose clear bins, you can easily see what’s inside without having to open each container individually. This saves you time and energy, allowing you to quickly and efficiently put things away.
Clear bins are readily available and can be found at many retailers, including Amazon, Target, and other organizing professionals. They come in various shapes and sizes, so you can choose the ones that work best for your specific needs. For example, deep bins are great for storing larger items, while smaller bins are perfect for holding collections or smaller projects.
It’s worth noting that clear bins may not be for everyone. Some people may prefer closed storage solutions, like cabinets or systems with doors, to help keep their clutter completely hidden from view. However, the transparency of clear bins can be incredibly helpful for those who strive for simplicity and want to easily see what they have.
While clear bins can help contain clutter, it’s important to remember that they are not a magical solution. It’s still essential to regularly declutter and organize your belongings. Clear bins can make the process easier by providing a designated space for your things, but they won’t automatically solve all your clutter problems.
Keeping clutter under control can be a challenge, especially in a world where Pinterest-perfect organization and decluttering trends abound. However, finding a system that works for you, whether it includes clear bins or other organizing tools, can make all the difference. So, the next time you find yourself staring at piles of stuff scattered around your home, grab some clear bins and start putting things away. Your home will thank you.