Updates from Pro Organizing

As we head toward the holiday season, I’ve been reflecting on this fall and the ways I’ve had to lean into the same things I encourage my clients to practice: simple systems and progress, not perfection.

This fall was especially full in our house with all three boys playing football. We love sports, but with multiple practices, games, and gear, things can get out of control. To keep things running (mostly) smoothly, I have a few intentional systems that made a big difference:

1. Baskets for All Things Sports

Each of my boys has a labeled basket in the laundry room just for uniforms and sports gear. I include sports gear because we’ve definitely had those frantic moments of searching for a missing wristband, belt, or undershirt right before a game. (Dance moms-I don’t know how you do it with all the tiny costume pieces!) Now, anything that could possibly be needed on game day goes straight into their basket after being washed. It saves so much stress.

2. Meal Prep on the Calendar

I could talk about meal prep all day, but the small shift that helped me this fall was putting it on my calendar. I use Google Calendar, and I created a recurring entry for supper. Once a week, I edit the entries with meal ideas based on our schedule and what needs to be used up. It’s not fancy, but it gives me a plan.

3. A Place for Everything

This one is two-fold. We have a wall in our garage with plenty of empty hooks to keep their pads and helmets. The gear didn’t clutter up our entryway and as a bonus, the smell of football pads stayed in the garage. 

These small systems aren’t just for football season, so think about what you are commonly searching the house for, or what you often trip over. Try a small change and see if it makes life smoother!