The Joyful Sort Top 5: Tips For A Simple And Organized Summer
While it’s technically still spring for another few weeks, summer break is in full swing here in my little corner of Columbus. For me, the next six weeks or so will be a much welcomed chance to reset. It’s been a crazy busy few months and The Joyful Sort is growing in ways that I could have never imagined. I’m incredibly thankful and so very excited for what’s to come…but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t also a tiny bit overwhelmed and in need of a breather. I’ve been thinking a lot about how important it is to be intentional about this time so that I can make the absolute most of it, both personally and professionally, so in that spirit I thought it would be helpful to share some of my favorite tips to help simplify and organize your summer.
1. Create a plan, but leave room for Should-less days.
Simple doesn’t mean unstructured! If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to map out a plan for the summer months. Start by sitting down with your planner or calendar of choice and listing out any commitments that you already have lined up - camps, trips, weddings, sports games, etc. It’s amazing how quickly the days will fill up, but seeing everything laid out this way is a good reality/expectation check.
Next, gather input from family members to determine what your summer fun priorities are. For us, it’s making sure that we hit favorite spots like the zoo and the wonderful Worthington farmer’s market while also working in a few special things like catching a movie at the drive-in theater or a minor league baseball game. I’m also a big proponent of leaving some breathing room for “Should-less” days (a phrase borrowed from one of my favorite actresses, Ellen Burstyn, referring to the days she gives herself free of obligations or commitments where she can truly pause and unwind).
2. Narrow down your project list.
Summer can feel like the perfect time to cross those nagging items off of your To Do list, but it’s important to be realistic about what you’ll actually be able to accomplish (hence the schedule outline from my first tip). Whether it’s a daily or seasonal project list, the number I try to stick with is three: one Must Do, one Should Do, and one Could Do. The Must Do is my highest priority that I really do need to make sure actually gets done (building out some new processes and refreshing my website- stay tuned!). The Should Do is something that’s still pretty important, but not so much that I can’t give myself a little grace in when it gets done (completing a reset of my boys’ keepsake and paper/artwork bins). If I get to the Could Do, I consider myself ahead of the game.
3. Stick to the essentials.
Prep yourself for any activities that are a regular part of your summer routine and keep essential supplies accessible and ready to go. You can find my tips on organizing a summer car kit here, and the same basic rules apply for things like pool and sports bags or an entertaining station for backyard grilling. Make sure to take stock of anything you may already have on-hand before purchasing any replenishment items like sunscreen, bug spray, or those little corn-on-the-cob holder thingies (very technical term).
4. Drop it like it’s hot.
“A place for everything and everything in its place.” is an Organizing 101 mantra for a reason - drop zones work! Prevent the pile-up by designating spots for items that normally get thrown to the side as soon as you walk in the door. A few ideas:
A library book return basket
An empty laundry basket stationed in the garage for wet towels and swimsuits
A flip-flop/water shoe basket (I recommend one per family member, if budget and space allow)
5. Breathe and let go.
Your floors will be dirty. Your pantry will be torn apart. The laundry will be constant (is it ever not?). But if there ever was a season to breathe, step back, and let it go, it’s sweet summertime!
What are your summer plans? Do you have any go-to summer organization tips that keep you sane? I’d love to hear!