Get in the Zone! Organizing Tips You’ve Never Known

Any organizing job is much easier to accomplish once you get in the zone. And by that I mean planning out each space according to use and efficiency. For the most efficient use of space and the best organization ever, you need to organize by zone. Here’s how!

What is a zone?

A zone is an area that is designated for a very specific purpose. For example, in your kitchen you probably have an eating zone, a cooking zone, and a baking zone, even if you haven’t called them that. Some zones are pretty easy to figure out, such as a sleeping zone {your bed!}. Others might take some thought and observation first. So take the time to assess the areas of your home and what they are typically used for. Is there a spot for the kids’ homework? How about a nook for reading? The zones you designate depend on you and your family and how you use the spaces in your home.

Here are some tips to help you establish and organize by zone:

• Yes, you should name your zones! Don’t be afraid to label them in your mind or in a notebook if it helps motivate you to organize them accordingly.
• As I already pointed out, the first step is to observe how you already use the spaces in your home. If there’s one spot where everyone seems to drop their keys, bags, and backpacks when they come in, that’s the area you should designate as a drop zone. You get the idea!
• Besides the normal eating, cooking, and homework zones, create other zones that help you be more organized. For example, if you don’t have one already you should designate a storage zone. Other zones may be a craft zone, home office zone, diaper changing zone, and a pet zone. 
• A fun way to visually designate the zones in your home is to paint them a fun color, or use furniture placement to set them apart from other areas.
• After you designate zones, make a list to keep track of what belongs in each zone. If there are any items needed to make specific zones more functional, keep a list for those things and cross them off as you acquire them.

Now you’re ready to get yourself in the zone!