Yhem Speaks

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In my last post, I shared how I keep my culture while embracing modern life. I’ve managed to live that balance every day by creating little systems. These systems save me both time and money. Because let’s be honest,  life gets busy and if we’re not careful, clutter, wasted time, and unnecessary spending sneak in quietly.

We don’t always notice it, but disorganization quietly steals from us. It steals time when we’re searching for missing items. It steals money when we end up buying duplicates of things we already own. And it steals peace of mind when our homes and schedules feel like chaos.

I’ve experienced disorganization and I can tell you that these simple hacks changed the game for me. These small everyday habits help keep my space in order, save me money, and give me back precious time. And the best part? They aren’t complicated, just things you can start today that make a difference in your home.

1. Declutter first and then reorganize

For the longest time, I thought I was “organizing” when I bought pretty baskets, boxes, and storage bins. In reality, I was just moving clutter from one corner to another. The truth is, organizing what you don’t need is still clutter that is neatly packed.

Now, I start with the simplest but hardest step: letting go. Even now and then, I walk through my home with a critical eye and ask, “Do I use this? Do I even need this?” If the answer is no, it’s time for it to go.

Here’s what that looks like:

Clothes: If I haven’t worn it in a year, I donate it or throw it out. Someone else might actually need what’s just taking up space in my wardrobe.

Duplicates: Do I really need five pairs of scissors? I keep the best one and let go of the rest.

Paper pile-up: Old bills, manuals, or random papers I’ll never look at again get shredded or recycled.

What I’ve discovered is that the less I own, the easier my home is to manage. With fewer things, I spend less time searching for what I need. I spend less money buying duplicates. I also use less energy cleaning around stuff I don’t use.

Only after this process do I organize what’s left. That’s when baskets, boxes, and shelves actually make sense. They are not hiding clutter, they’re showcasing.

2. Label Everything

This sounds simple, but labeling has saved me countless hours of searching. Clear containers for spices, boxes for small items, and folders for documents are all labeled. It also keeps me from rebuying things because I can see what I already own. The transparent jar in the kitchen stops my impulse to buy another pack of seasoning cubes. It makes me realize I already have enough.

3. Go digital when you can

Technology has become one of my best organizing tools. I use calendar reminders for bills so I never pay late fees. Notes apps help me track my shopping lists so I don’t buy what I don’t need. Even keeping copies of receipts in digital folders instead of paper piles has reduced the chaos. Little things like this save both time and money.

4. Meal prep means fewer takeouts.

Cooking every single day can feel overwhelming. I’ve found that meal prepping on weekends changes everything. Washing and chopping vegetables in advance is a big help. Marinating meat or even cooking a big pot of stew that lasts a few days also helps. These efforts save me from ordering takeout when I’m tired. It also helps me use what I have before it spoils. Less waste = less money lost.

5. Repurposing items

Before I run to the store to buy more storage items, now I pause to consider. I ask myself: What do I already have? Can something I own work? You’d be surprised how many things in your home can be given a second life. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces clutter and even feels creative. Here are some examples:

Glass Jars – Don’t throw away jars from sauces, honey, or jam. Wash and reuse them to store spices. Use them for dry foods like rice or beans. They are also great for small office supplies like paper clips, buttons, and pins.

Shoe Boxes – These are perfect as drawer dividers, makeup organizers, or even mini storage boxes for cables and chargers.

Tins & Cans – Those sturdy tins from biscuits or chocolates have multiple uses. They make excellent sewing kits, first-aid kits, or craft supply holders.

Old Towels – Cut into smaller pieces and use them as cleaning rags instead of buying new wipes.

Plastic Containers – Ice cream tubs, yogurt cups, or margarine containers can store leftovers, or hold laundry items like pegs.

Wine Bottles – With a little creativity, they can become water bottles, DIY vases, or even kitchen oil dispenser.

Old Mugs – Turn them into pen holders on your desk or little planters for herbs.

Clothing – Old T-shirts can be cut up into cleaning cloths. Jeans can be transformed into storage pockets. You can hang them behind doors.

6. Build simple routines

Organization is not just about where things go but it’s also about when things happen. I lay out clothes the night before. I pack bags ahead of time. I give myself a “clean-up 15 minutes” before bed. These small routines mean I wake up calmer, I don’t misplace things, and I avoid morning panic-buying . “Oh no, I don’t have toothpaste!”.

So finally, my being organized doesn’t mean I am living in or having a perfect lifestyle. It just means I’m creating systems that free up my time. These systems save my money. I feel you can also do the same. For me, these hacks are less about having everything look “aesthetic.” They are about making space for things that truly matter in your home. This includes your career and the joys of everyday living.

When my home and schedule are in order, my mind is free. Everything around me feels calmer and lighter. And that, to me, is the best reward.

With stories always,

Yhem💞