Are you frequently misplacing your keys, sunglasses, or other important items? Some of us can be a little absent-minded, in a hurry, or are often running out the door only to be delayed because we can’t find our keys or phone. Growing up my Mom was forever losing her sunglasses. I never kept track, but I bet she bought at least several pairs a year throughout my childhood.
There is no magic bullet to solve this problem. But there is hope. A combination of behavior change and using a simple organizing tool can make a world of difference.
One of the basic tenets of getting organized is to assign homes for things, especially things you use on a daily basis. I’m not saying you will automatically use the new “home” every day, but over time it will become a habit and eventually sub-conscious behavior. For me, switching from plastic/paper grocery bags to bringing my own recyclable bags has definitely been a change of behavior adjustment. In the beginning I would remember to use my bags about every 5th trip to the grocery store. Now I remember about 98% of the time. Tip: keep your cloth grocery bags in your trunk so they are always available.
Several years ago I bought this clever “Do Not Forget” door hanger for my husband, who is forever misplacing his keys and wallet. It hangs on our front door, and though it definitely took some time before it became a habit, nine times out of ten his keys are happily perched in their new home.
If you’d rather have something on a nearby table, try using a decorative dish or bowl, placed near the door your exit most makes losing these items nearly impossible. You probably have something on hand. If not, think of it as an excuse to buy a cute home decor item that serves a very useful purpose. I just love this little ‘Paris’ tray from Waiting on Martha.
If you don’t have a table upon which to place a bowl or tray, try using a wall-mounted system, such as this cute option from Umbra available at The Container Store. It serves double-duty, as a home for both your keys and outgoing mail or paperwork.
Do you have a designated place to keep your keys, sunglasses and other go-to items?
Have a super weekend and let me know if this post inspires you to designate a home for frequently misplaced items.