Boundaries

A key to organization is setting up boundaries, both mental and tangible. The thread that runs through many parts of organizing -- storage, labeling, zones in a room, etc. -- is boundaries. Without distinct areas or designated homes, things spread and multiply. By using containers, for example, you set up and provide a limit of the contents. By designating places or zones for things in your home or office, you provide guidance for others to find and replace things.

When items are without spatial boundaries, they have a tendency to wander. If there is a bin or shelf that has no distinct, delineated purpose, you can put anything there. If you have an hour of time that you are not sure what to do and have no plans, you may do a little of many things or end up doing nothing productive. In fact, if you research 'time management', you will find a lot of discussion of boundaries.

You need to divide up big spaces; put loose items in small containers or sectioned organizers. Everything should have a place so that you know what goes in there and what does not. This helps to avoid the spreading and decluttering of areas (think toys, clothes, books and anything that you find yourself picking up time and time again all over the house!). It makes putting things away easier and more likely to happen.

Aren't large spaces usually overwhelming until you break them up into smaller areas, zones or sections? Or taking a week and planning by day? Doing things in smaller batches is closely connected to why setting boundaries is helpful in organization, task management, and time management.

Here are some examples of organizing products that have this essence of boundaries.