Organising can seem like a straightforward task, but even the most well-intentioned efforts can sometimes result in frustration and clutter (you know the moment you usually give up but you realise that you’re in the mess you’ve just created when you were attempting to actually get stuff organised?). Whether you’re organising your home, office, or moving to a new space, avoiding common mistakes can make all the difference. Here are five organising mistakes people often make, along with tips on how to avoid them (cause we’ve got your back).

1. Underestimating the importance of planning

Mistake: Many people dive into organising without taking the time to plan ahead. They may start by tidying up a space without considering its function or flow, leading to ineffective or short-lived results.

Instead: Before you begin organising, take a step back and evaluate the space. Ask yourself: What is the function of this space? How do I use it daily? Creating a plan that considers both the space and your needs will ensure that everything has a designated place and that the system works for you in the long term.

2. Not decluttering first

Mistake: One of the biggest mistakes is trying to organise clutter without first decluttering. You might think that by organising everything, it’ll feel more manageable, but you’re likely just putting more things into an already overcrowded space.

Instead: Before organising, take the time to declutter. Go through your items and decide what to keep, donate, or discard. This will free up space and make it easier to organise only the things that truly add value to your life. A clean slate is always a great starting point.

3. Ignoring the need for maintenance

Mistake: Organising is often seen as a one-time event, but without regular upkeep, even the most beautifully organised space can quickly devolve into chaos. Many people overlook the fact that maintaining organisation is an ongoing process, especially when we continue to add to our possessions.

Instead: Set aside time for regular check-ins and tidying. Whether it’s a quick weekly clean-up or seasonal reorganising, maintenance is key to keeping spaces functional and organised long-term. Consider implementing daily habits, like putting things away after use, to prevent clutter from building up again.

4. Overcomplicating the system

Mistake: Sometimes, in the effort to create a perfect system, people make their organisation plans too complex. Over-organising with too many bins, labels, and storage solutions can actually create more work and confusion than necessary.

Instead: Keep your systems simple. The goal of organising is to make your life easier, not harder. Choose solutions that are intuitive and easy to maintain (and these can be different for everyone). For example, instead of over-storing small items, group similar items together in an easy-to-reach location. A minimalist approach is often the most effective.

5. Not considering the long-term needs

Mistake: Organising based on how things are right now rather than anticipating future changes can lead to frustration down the line. This mistake is often made when organising closets, offices, or storage spaces that are likely to change over time.

Instead: Think ahead when setting up your systems. Ask yourself how your needs might evolve in the future. For instance, if your family is growing, will your storage system still work? If you have a seasonal wardrobe, make sure your system can accommodate rotating items throughout the year.

So…

Avoiding these common organising mistakes can help you create a more efficient, sustainable, and enjoyable space. The key is to plan, declutter, and simplify, while also allowing for regular maintenance and flexibility. By approaching organising with these principles in mind, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success and create spaces that truly work for your lifestyle. Happy organising!