15 Common Lies About Organising - Myths and Facts
I am an idiot. I mean a blue idiot.
According to Thomas Erikson’s "Surrounded by Idiots" best-selling book.
Surrounded by Idiots is a book about different types of personalities categorised in 4 different colours and ways on how to communicate with each personality type.
Honestly, at first, I only got curious about it with the title itself. Then I started googling the reviews and decided to read the book. As I expected, I enjoyed reading it and found it very helpful. It gave me a better understanding of myself and the people around me and how to deal with each defined colour-coded personality.
If you haven’t read this book, I highly recommend you read it or at least listen to its audiobook version.
As a blue idiot, I have the personality of being analytical, process-driven, and detail-oriented.
I always weigh in all possible options before making a decision, which at times makes me indecisive or even worse procrastinate in making decisions. As you can tell, I value and enjoy being organised, that's why I decided to become a professional organiser. But mind you, it wasn't a quick realisation on my part.
Surprise, surprise! It took me 10 years to give in to this pipedream and wishful thinking, a classic blue idiot analysis paralysis or maybe just waiting for the right timing (is that a good excuse?).
Growing up, I have always thought that something was not quite right with me and that I didn't think or behave like my other siblings or friends. I felt for a time I was the odd one out. Only in recent years, I became free from that long judgment when I started to free up my thoughts and feelings about the myths people think about me and started embracing my weirdness and differences from others.
As a particularly organised person, I have felt misjudged by others. If only I could explain to each one of them that what they are thinking about me is wrong. But, I know we are not placed in this world to please everyone. Thank Goodness! So, I have learned to come to terms with the reality that it is up to other people what they wish to think about me.
But as a professional organiser, I feel I have the responsibility to educate those who wish to be enlightened on the myths and lies about organising or being organised. I am here to help people shift that old mindset with a new one. To regain their spaces (as well as their schedule ) back to order, from chaos to calm.
If you are ready to let go of the myths and embrace the facts about organising, I warmly welcome you to this page!
Are you ready to deep dive into it? Let’s go!
1. Organising is About Perfection
2. Organising is a Natural Trait
3. Organising is Only About Physical Space
4. Organising is Being Control Freak
5. Organising Requires Expensive Materials or Tools
6. Organising is a One-Time Task
7. Organising is Not Having Fun
8. Organising is Getting Rid of Everything
9. Organising is the Same As Cleaning
10. Organising is Time-Consuming
11. Organising is Only For Specific People
12. Organising Has a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
13. Organising is Being Organised All The Time
14. Organising isn't Organising if not Implemented All Throughout Your Home
15. Organising is All About Pinterest-Looking Spaces
Below are the common lies or misconceptions or myths that I encounter about organising or being organised and shedding some light on the truths and facts about them:
1. Organising is About Perfection
This is the top myth I always hear from people when it comes to organising. Because I had been or am still being tagged as one - perfectionist! True organisation is about acknowledging imperfections and working on improving one's functionality and making life easier, not achieving an ideal and flawless space. Being organised doesn’t mean everything has to be perfect or immaculate. It’s more about finding the rightful systems that work for you and keeping things manageable. Follow a practical approach, such as focusing on what helps you find things quickly and maintain order. Accept that some clutter is normal and that organisation is an ongoing process. Perfection isn't the goal — efficiency and ease of use are. In the process, having an organised space will allow you to discover and be the best version of yourself, and not about perfection.
2. Organising is a Natural Trait
People often think that being organised is an innate skill or something you are born with. It’s a set of habits and skills that can be learned and developed over time. Anyone can develop effective organising habits with practice and patience. It's about finding strategies that work for you and consistently applying them. I have seen and met people who used to be drowning with clutter and disorganisation and now living in a calm and orderly space. And guess what?! Some of them have become professional organisers like me! Remember, even naturally untidy individuals can be organised and naturally tidy ones refine their skills over time. Embracing organisation as a skill means anyone can improve their environment, regardless of when they have started their journey.
3. Organising is Only About Physical Space
The myth that organising is only about physical space overlooks its broader scope. It is given that physical spaces are often living testaments of organisation, but, organisation is not just about keeping your physical space tidy. Effective organisation extends beyond tidying rooms and decluttering shelves. It encompasses non-tangible spaces in our day-to-day lives such as time management, digital file organisation, and mental clarity. Organising your schedule, for example, can reduce stress and improve productivity. Digital organisation, like structuring emails and files, ensures quick access and efficiency. Mental organisation involves setting priorities and goals, helping to focus on what truly matters. By recognising that organising impacts various aspects of life, you can create a balanced, harmonious environment that supports overall well-being, proving that organisation is versatile and essential for any space, either physical or non-physical.
4. Organising is Being Control Freak
Many people think that being organised is being a control freak. Organising is about creating a functional and efficient environment, not obsessing over small things or micromanaging. Being organised and being a control freak are different things. Being organised means having a systematic approach to tasks and responsibilities, which can lead to efficiency and reduced stress. A control freak, on the other hand, often tries to micromanage and control every aspect of situations and other people, which can create tension and conflict. Organising, when done right, is not about rigid control, but, about fostering a sense of calm and order. Appreciating organisation supports a balanced lifestyle, allowing you to focus more on what truly matters. It's a proactive way to simplify life, not an expression of controlling behaviour.
5. Organising Requires Expensive Materials or Tools
The myth that organising requires expensive tools is simply not true. Practical organisation is more about strategy than spending. Everyday items like shoeboxes, jars, and baskets can be repurposed into practical storage solutions. The key is to use what creative resources you already have. Labelling containers, grouping similar items, and designating specific spaces for belongings can all be done without breaking the bank. Simple methods and affordable solutions such as meal planning, use of to-do or shopping lists, or implementing basic storage solutions can be very effective. The focus should be on functionality and accessibility, proving that a well-organised space is achievable on any budget.
6. Organising is a One-Time Task
As emphasised by seasoned professional organisers before me, organising is a journey, not a destination. Effective organisation is an ongoing process, not a single event. Initially setting up systems is crucial, but maintaining them requires regular attention. Life constantly changes, and so do your needs and belongings. Periodically reassess and adjust your organisation strategies to keep everything functional and tidy. Small, consistent efforts, like daily tidying and occasional decluttering, prevent overwhelming messes from building up. Cherish organisation as a continuous practice that evolves with you, ensuring lasting order and efficiency in your space. This approach makes organisations sustainable and effective in the long run. For a long-lasting practice, you can consider organising as a lifestyle and not just a project task.
7. Organising is Not Having Fun
The myth that organising isn't fun overlooks the satisfaction and creativity it can bring. One of the wrong notions of organising is people think that you are bound within a military style of living. Being organised doesn’t mean being rigid. Turning chaos into order can be incredibly rewarding, offering a sense of accomplishment. It’s possible to be organised and still have a flexible, enjoyable lifestyle. Personalising your space with colours, labels, and storage solutions can make organising enjoyable. Think of it as a creative project, where you design a system that reflects your style and needs. Involving family or friends can add a social element, making it a collaborative effort. Moreover, the positive impact on your daily life—less stress, more efficiency—adds to the enjoyment. Treat organising as a fun, empowering process that transforms your spaces.
8. Organising is Getting Rid of Everything
True organisation isn't all about minimalism per se; it's about creating a fully functional and harmonious space. While decluttering is a vital part of the process, it’s not about discarding all possessions. Instead, it involves thoughtfully evaluating items to keep what truly adds value to your life. Have you heard of Marie Kondo's "Spark Joy"? It's that little thrill you feel about the things you own which only you can tell what makes it special or not for it to secure a valuable space in your real estate. Organising is about finding a place for everything and ensuring easy access. It’s about balance, not deprivation. By focusing on what enhances your daily life, you can create an organised environment that reflects your needs and preferences, rather than emptying your home.
9. Organising is the Same As Cleaning
The common lie that organising is the same as cleaning confuses two distinct tasks. Cleaning involves removing dirt and grime and focuses on the safety, hygiene, and sanitation of a space while organising focuses on creating a practical, efficient, and orderly system for your belongings. Organising is about designating specific places for items, making it easier to find and use them efficiently. I particularly enjoy organising and less cleaning but I do appreciate they go hand in hand together for much effective results. Cleaning may make a space look tidy temporarily, but without organisation, clutter quickly returns. Effective organising reduces the need for constant cleaning by maintaining order. By differentiating the two, you can achieve a harmonious, clean, and organised environment that supports your daily life and reduces stress.
10. Organising is Time-Consuming
The initial time spent in transforming a space from mess to success is a time well spent. As Benjamin Franklin said, "For every minute spent in organising, an hour is earned." In reality, effective habitual organisation often saves time in the long run by reducing the chaos of daily life. Begin with small tasks, like decluttering a drawer or sorting a shelf, which can take just a few minutes. Integrate simple habits, such as putting items back in their designated spots, to maintain order effortlessly. The organisation doesn't always require marathon sessions; consistent small efforts are enough to see some significant positive change. Over time, these manageable steps build a more orderly and efficient environment, proving that organising can fit seamlessly into any schedule without draining so much of your time.
11. Organising is Only For Specific People
It is a common misconception that organising is only for women, or for adults, or for mums and dads. It is a universal skill that benefits everyone, regardless of age, gender, personality or lifestyle. Whether you're naturally tidy or more spontaneous, effective organising systems can be tailored to suit your unique needs and habits. As long as you are ready to take your life to the next level of freedom, young or old, professional or non-professional, parents or not, economically advantaged or not, organising has something for you to offer. Anyone can learn to organise with the right mindest, strategies and a bit of practice. Understand organisation as a tool for improving your daily life, making it accessible and beneficial for everyone, not just specific people.
12. Organising Has a One-Size-Fits-All Approach
Organising is a highly individual process that depends on personal preferences, lifestyle, specific needs, and budget. What works for one may not necessarily work for another. In reality, it takes experimenting or trial and error to identify the best organising solution that works for you and your space. Tailor it to your needs, rather than striving for a One-Size-Fits-All approach. There is not a one-defined system for organising, it all depends on your situation, your requirements, and what you can maintain in the long run.
13. Organising is Being Organised All The Time
Another misconception to bust is the idea that an organised person is organised 100% of the time. Even the most organised person will say, "I don't feel like doing it (organising) today" or "I forgot this and that". Particularly on days that there's only 50% to spare (time and enthusiasm), or if the household keeps messing up the system, and you just want to take a breather, or there is just way too much going on. Remember, organising is a way to improve your life, not a burden to carry nor a token to show off that you are all over it. It's all about making as many consistent small habits as you can maintain. As per James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, "Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to become." The more you decide to meet the best version of yourself in the area of organisation, the more you can reap the benefits of organising.
14. Organising isn't Organising if not Implemented All Throughout Your Home
Organising isn't effective unless implemented throughout your entire home is not something I can support. The true organisation begins with manageable steps. Focus on one area at a time, such as a closet or desk, to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Success in small spaces often gives you better momentum to look at more areas around your home. Stop the all-or-nothing approach when it comes to organising. Like anything else, just start small and slowly build an organising system that works for you. Remember, partial organisation still brings significant benefits, like saved time, reduced stress and increased productivity. Successful organising is about creating a suitable environment that improves your daily life, no matter the scale. Start small, celebrate progress, and gradually extend your efforts.
15. Organising is All About Pinterest-Looking Spaces
The myth that organising must look Pinterest-perfect deters many from starting. If you have read this far, you would already know that an effective organisation prioritises function over aesthetics. It’s about creating a system that works for your needs, not about achieving a magazine-worthy look. Use practical solutions like labelled bins and baskets. Remember, organisation is about ease and efficiency, not just pretty looks. Your space should serve you, not the other way around. An organised life is about feeling calm and in control, not about impressing others with a picture-perfect setup.
Which one of the above points provides you with a new perspective on organising?
If you have more myths and facts that are not included on this list, please feel free to share them as well, I want to learn from you.
I hope this helps you in some way or form to encourage you to start your organising journey today at home.
Understanding the above points can help you shift the focus from unrealistic expectations to practical approaches for a better organisation that leads to an improved life.
Happy Organising, mappers! Let’s keep mapping!
