How to Find Anything in Your Home in 30 Seconds or Less

Did you know that the average American spends 55 minutes each day looking for things she has but cannot find? If you recognize yourself in that statistic, know that there is an alternative. Here are 5 ways to end the stress and frustration that comes with frantically needing to search for your things:

1. Own Less
Imagine your home filled only with items that bring you joy; a space that feels like a sanctuary, where you can find what you need as soon as you need it. 
Go from feeling like you are drowning in clutter to living only with what you love or need by asking yourself these questions: 

"Does this item bring me joy?"
"Do I really need so many copies of this?"
"Does this item reflect the season of my life?"
"Would I feel good if I saw an ex while I was wearing this?"

If the answer to any of these questions is no, then let it go.

2. Create an Identity for a Space 
Decide what the purpose of the closet, or the pantry, or your home office is, then only keep stuff in there that relates to that purpose. If the identity of an entryway closet is for "coming-and-going" items then don't use it to store gift wrap. If the identity of your office is for processing paper, then don't store makeup or toys there.

3. Put Stuff Back
Once you decide where stuff goes, put it back. Every time. It does not have to be that second (I get it, everyone is busy), but make sure you do it by the end of the day. That way, when you go to look for something, it will be in its proper home.

4. Labels are Your Best Friend
A label is essentially a mini-sign telling you, and everyone in your household, exactly where things can be found. It's worth the time investment to add them.

5. Buy Less
If there is one habit to adopt today that will transform your home, it is to be more intentional about what you bring into it. Before you start shopping, take an inventory of what you already own. Once shopping, buy something because you truly love it or really need it -- not because it happens to be on sale. Ask yourself: Do I really need this? Will I actually wear this? Once I bring this into my house, where will I store it? If you are unsure at any point, put it back and walk away.

Organizing is a process. These five strategies are a great way to get started.

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