The new year is a time for fresh starts, and for me, that means getting organized and setting the tone for a productive, stress-free year. If you’re like me and enjoy feeling accomplished by decluttering and setting goals, here’s how I’m tackling the start of the year:
Saying Goodbye to Christmas
The first step to getting organized is putting away all my Christmas decorations. I make it a point to separate everything into categories:
- Wrapping essentials: wrapping paper, tape, bows, gift tags, bags, and scissors.
- Outdoor decorations: icicles, inflatables, and net lights.
- Tree decorations: ornaments, ribbons, tree star topper, and garlands.
Once everything is sorted, I carefully pack it away and store it out of sight. With Christmas behind me, it’s easier to focus on what’s next.
And what’s next? Decorating for Valentine’s Day! I love adding a little festive cheer to my space, and getting those hearts and reds up right after taking down the Christmas decor feels like a smooth transition.
Decluttering the Closet and Beyond
Next, I dive into my closet. This is a big one because I find that a clean, organized space makes everything feel more manageable. Here’s my process:
- Go through all my clothes, drawers, and shoes.
- Donate or throw away items I no longer wear.
- Toss old mail and other unnecessary papers.
- Organize and place miscellaneous photos into albums.
- Refold and neatly stack bedding, sheets, and towels.
There’s something so motivating about tackling a messy space and turning it into a functional, tidy area. It sets the stage for a productive mindset.
» » » » » » RELATED READ: Decluttering for a Happier Home and a Happier Me « « « « « «
Journaling, Planning, and Budgeting
This year, I’m trying something new: journaling and planning regularly. To help me stick to my goals, I’ve invested in two journals that I’m excited to start using:
- Budget Mastery Journal: This journal helps me manage my finances, plan my budget, and build wealth over time. Check it out here.
- Weekly Planner with Habit Tracker: This one includes space for weekly planning, habit tracking, and monthly reflections. You can find it here.
These tools will guide me in staying motivated and tracking my goals, both financial and personal. I hope to journal every other day or, at the very least, at the end of each week. Since this is my first year trying this system, I know it’ll be a learning process. But I’m optimistic that it will help me stay on track and build a rhythm.
Starting the Year with a Clean Mindset
The steps I’ve outlined—putting away holiday decorations, decluttering my space, and setting up a system for journaling and planning—are all part of my strategy to start the year feeling organized and in control.
If you’re looking for ways to begin your year on a high note, I hope these tips inspire you. Remember, the key is to start small and build momentum. Whether it’s cleaning out one drawer or writing down one goal, every step counts. Here’s to a bright, organized, and successful year ahead!
The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of ABQ Mom, its executive team, other contributors to the site, its sponsors or partners, or any organizations the aforementioned might be affiliated with.
