When I was a kid I had to be bribed, blackmailed and forced into tidying because I hated it. I thought that it was something I’d get into when I was older, as adults always seem to be super tidy. I’m now 22 and still so messy and untidy, I don’t know what it is about putting something back that I can’t get a grip of but I just have accepted I wasn’t graced with the tidy gene.
I have actually been trying to make more of an effort lately, it’s probably not really much of a difference in practicality terms but it means my boyfriend can’t moan at me for not trying, oops! I thought I’d give any messy pups some ideas of how to try and be a bit tidier when you’re just naturally rubbish at it.
Only take one thing out at a time
When I was a kid, I had to have the rule ‘only one toy at a time’ to get me in the habit of putting things away. Although it certainly didn’t make me naturally tidy, it is a good rule to have. I think it’s most helpful when trying on outfits – rather than try on eight and have to put them all away at once, try on one, put it away and try on another.
Have a mini tidy before you do something
If I know I’m going to be doing something that causes a mess (for example if I’m cooking something that requires a lot of utensils and pans) I’ll tidy up beforehand. It might seem pointless, but tackling a small amount of mess twice is much easier than tackling a huge amount of mess once.
Tidy as you go along
Some times (okay, most times) I’ll be doing something that creates mess as I go along. It’s rare I’m doing something that needs my undivided attention every second while I’m doing it, so if I have a few minutes spare I’ll quickly run around and tidy when I have time so that it’s easier to cope with when I’m finished.
Check the room before you leave
Obviously this isn’t one to do in a rush but if you’re just leaving one room for another have a quick scan and see if there is anything you can put away before you leave. It’s a good reality check to make sure you’re not leaving the room in an absolute tip and makes it a bit nicer for whoever goes in next.
I’ll never be naturally tidy, and I won’t lie, sometimes I look around and think how the hell am I genuinely this messy? Trying to keep on top of my untidiness does help to prevent full blown hurricane messiness though, which yes may not be the best but you just have to pick your battles don’t you, and this is one I’ll never fully win.
Are you also a creator of mess? And if not, do you have any tips for us who are?
P.S. if you’re wondering where I got my makeup storage thing from, it’s TK Maxx! Cost £12.99 for this one, and there are loads of other ones like just for lipsticks and stuff.
