Talented In Clutter

Mama has been very irritated lately with those of us in the house that leave things lie around. It's not just in one room, but several rooms throughout the house. She's been trying to learn ways to keep things picked up and keep everyone happy at the same time. It's been quite the challenge! This is what mama has to say: How can those that live out of clutter function? It's one of those challenges that seem to be a constant source of irritation from both sides. The organized can't stand the look of clutter, let alone find anything, while the cluttered can't find anything that's organized! How do you determine what is the best route? In a home, those that are more talented in clutter may appear as having just left piles of messes throughout the thouse, but indeed have a specific system, or routine that they follow with some of it. It's learning what that system is, and how it can be applied to the various piles found in each room. In most homes there is a "drop off" spot when you enter through the door. Unfortunately, in our home, it's the kitchen table that is about 3 steps away from the door. You come in and everything get's dropped off. There are some family members who don't take what is on the table and put it away, and some that do carry through. Those that don't put things away create a source of frustration for those who work in the kitchen. What we have learned is that there are certain items that are purposely left on the table, and for good reason. So, how is this taken care of? Family members must come to an agreement. We agree on what can be "allowed" on the table and find a basket or box for those items to go into. This container can easily be removed for meal time. The rest of it must be taken care of immediately. Once all concerned are in agreement with what the "rules" are, the plan is put into action. If you find that following through this agreement becomes a challenge, perhaps a little wagering of consequences needs to be put in place. I remember my mother charging us a quarter for every item we left laying around. Once she was paid, our missing item was returned. It was tough to lose the allowance that was given to me, but it didn't take long for me to learn where things should lie! Read again tomorrow to learn how to work with the co-worker that is "strung all over the place." Here's waggin at ya! Write to Mama, sb@acovs.com for a free copy of her article, "What System?"