Organizing, the "Japanese Way"

CEBU, Philippines – Structure is perhaps the most definitive attribute that is found in all facets of Japanese culture, from the way a day is scheduled to the foundations of how a domicile is built.

Bound by tradition yet open to the exciting dynamics promised by what is new, the Japanese have always been keen on progress and change, yet structured enough to know that being anchored to what has always worked has its own advantages, too.

As such, it's really not strange to see how organized Japan is, an attribute which we can all learn from starting with the way we organize our homes.

Below is a quick take on how one can readily go "Japanese" in the organization of one's direct domestic surroundings.

Step 1 - Get rid of what is Unnecessary

Though not exactly an act which the Japanese are only liable to do, getting rid of what is unnecessary proves to be a good first step in making a home spic and span, a process that leads to the reclamation of valuable space in a given room.

What's the point in keeping that broken CRT monitor? Will you really find a replacement caster for that broken computer chair without buying a new one? Why keep that circa 1980 broken down stereo component set when you already have a 5.1 channel home entertainment setup? Do you really need to keep that old TV?

Think about only keeping the things which you will be needing in the near future, as well as take note of the things which are impossible to replace. Your "inner pack rat" will surely not like the idea of getting rid of stuff, but as you tread on your pilgrimage to be more organized, it is a necessary act that has to be done.

Step 2 - Common Sense in "Straightening Out" your home

After addressing what you'll be keeping and what you'll be giving up, you can then start addressing the issue of "finding things" by applying some common sense in the logistics of straightening out your house.

Positioning key ring hangers near the door or properly labeling containers may not sound all that novel as home organizing strategies, but as countless homes have had their share of missing keys and misplaced stuff, it pays to go simple and basic with the "straightening out" process of your home. Labeling and ideally positioning things where they should ideally be is a good way to go.

Step 3 - Implement a daily cleaning up system

Cleaning up a house does not have to be a day-long excursion, though many households tend to allocate a day or two for "general cleaning" activities.

As the implementation of a daily cleaning up system would prove, a household can effectively do away with the day-long "general cleaning" norm, with its members allocating a few minutes a day in cleaning up a space or portion of the house.

Given today's fast paced work and day-to-day standard, the notion of spending a few minutes to tidy around the kitchen, bathroom or bedroom may seem to sound like too much of a hassle, but in devoting ample time in little by little cleaning up the house per day, a "general cleaning" day can be spent doing something else that is more proactive and fun.

Step 4 - Setting a Standardized System

Keep in mind that keeping a house organized is a combined effort, one which requires the cooperation of every member of the household.

As such, the setting up of a standardized system is important, along with keeping in mind that the implementation of that standard is not just about following it through deeds or following it on its scheduled frequencies - it's about fulfilling duties and responsibilities, a virtue which every member of the household should acknowledge and respect.

Step 5 - Maintaining the Standard

This is perhaps the most difficult step to accomplish, but as it is, it stands to be very self explanatory.

After all, what's the point of taking on proactive positive changes to your home, if a household can't stick to a standardized system intent in keeping it more organized?  – THE FREEMAN