Sometimes the hardest part of organizing is getting started. There’s always a bigger project waiting to be done like the garage, the basement or your closet, and it can be hard to set aside an entire afternoon to get it done. But you can score a quick win with a small, micro-organizing session. It will build momentum, clear your mental clutter, and keep you motivated.

Here are a few of my favorite micro-projects you can try when you don’t have the time for a full organizing session.

1. Junk Drawer

We all have one. Besides the pens, batteries, and rubber bands, you never know what you might find in there. Spend 10 minutes tossing the trash, grouping like items, and giving it a quick tidy. You’ll be amazed at how much easier it feels to open that drawer when it’s not chaos inside.

2. Purse or Work Bag

Empty out your bag onto the counter. Toss the old receipts, candy wrappers. Return random items to their homes. Wipe down the inside if it needs it. Restock with fresh gum.

3. Car

Some of us spend a lot of time in the car and it can show. Grab a bag and collect trash, cups, or random items that don’t belong. Wipe down the dashboard and put essentials back in their spots. In just a few minutes, your car feels fresher and less stressful.

4. Pantry

Focus on one shelf of your pantry and scan for expired food, stale snacks, or empty boxes. Consolidate duplicates and straighten things up. Just by doing this, you will have a better feel of what you’re running low on, or need to add to the grocery list.

5. Nightstand

Your nightstand is not a catchall. Clear the top, toss trash, and only keep what you really need, like a lamp, book, or water glass. Waking up will feel much more peaceful.

6. Sock & Underwear Drawer

This is one of my favorite micro-projects because it makes everyday life smoother. Start by matching any single socks, then toss holey socks, stretched-out underwear, or anything you don’t wear. Fold or roll the rest so you can see what you have at a glance.

7. One Surface

Pick a single flat surface like your kitchen counter, entryway table, or bathroom vanity and clear it off. Wipe it down and only put back what actually belongs there.

Small wins are powerful. They take away the pressure of having to finish a giant project and instead give you the satisfaction of progress. And once you knock out a few micro-projects, you might feel motivated to keep going.

Which micro-project are you going to try today?

Learn more at Pro Organizing!

Small Organizing Projects You Can Do Today