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In my new book, LifeStyled, I share dozens of systems to streamline your home, life, and headspace—but today, I’m letting you in on my top four go-tos for creating and maintaining a tidy, organized home (yes, even with kids, a partner, and pets). Let’s dive in.
1. The Inbox
If you’ve read my first two books you’re probably tired of hearing me rant about the inbox, but it probably the simplest but most effective system in my entire home. We have a single basket that sits on a credenza in our entryway and serves as our family inbox. The inbox collects our incoming mail, bills, and invitations, as well as school forms the kids need us to sign—basically anything that requires action or attention. I do my best to sit down, review, and process the contents of the inbox with Jordan each Sunday so the pile never becomes monstrous.
Try It
Designate ONE spot in your home to corral all mail, bills, forms, invites, and documents that require your attention. Commit to reviewing once a week and watch your life change for the better.
Resources
This handwoven basket, this seagrass catchall, this pretty tray
2. The Outbox
An “outbox” is a simple system I invented to centralize all of the random items that need to see their way out of your home—think shop returns, library books, or the roasting pan you borrowed from your neighbor. I use a large hanging tote by the front door, but any large vessel will do the trick.
Try It
Shop your home for a large tote, bin, or basket for your entryway. Gather anything that needs to leave the house and drop it there to get it moving. (Pro tip: don’t leave it in the car long-term...lesson learned after a smashed window!)
Resources
This massive portable tote, this oversized basket
3. The Memento Bin
One of the top questions I get from clients is: “Where do I put all these cards, notes, artwork, photos, and other keepsakes?” My go-to answer: one box per family member that can serve as a catchall for anything that’s deeply sentimental. Slap a label on it, store it in a convenient place (closet shelf, desk drawer, or bookshelf) and call it done.
Try It:
Set up a single “memento bin” for each family member, where sentimental items can live in one safe place. Clutter, bye.
Resources
This box with wooden handles, this durable storage box, this weatherproof bin
🎉 FREE GIFTS: I have a super fun pre-order book bonus for you! I’ve designed detailed editing & organizing checklists for every room in your home. Pre-order LifeStyled (from anywhere in the world) and then claim your free gifts right here.
Substack Love: Loved this post by
on how terrible Americans are at resting. Read it here and then take a nap.New Podcast: I loved chatting with Kalli Youngstrom (host of the KY Wellness podcast) about flexible minimalism, intentional living, and my new book, LifeStyled. Listen here.
Book Launch News: Tickets available now for my first local (SF Bay Area) book launch party - Snag one here! LA friends, meet me at Shoppe Amber Interiors Pacific Palisades shop on December 12th from 3-5pm. If you’re in NYC, stay tuned for my launch party December 3rd at the Williams Sonoma shop in Chelsea.
Get Organized Master Class: Learn how to edit, organize, and elevate your home like a pro. To the course
Work With Me 1:1: No-fluff strategy and support to help you tackle your large and small goals. Get support here
Curated Product Recs: My fewer better faves for your home, life, and wardrobe. To the recs
Get the Books: Actionable strategies to clear clutter, get organized, & elevate your home and life. To the books
Pre-order LifeStyled now from your favorite bookshop! bookshop | target | amazon | barnes and noble | signed copies - so grateful for your support!
Hello Shira,
I hope at some point you will create a seminar for seniors who are downsizing.
I so love all of your advice, and I wish to hell I could have my home more like yours. So, I know you are coming to
Manhattan December 3rd, and I want to pre-order your new book, but alas it is not available till December 3rd, can you please advise how I should order, as I want to bring it to the event. Thank you kindly.
The Life Edit organizing bonuses are so helpful and couldn't come at a better time as I set about decluttering and organizing each room. Do you have a recommendation for labels for the outside of closet fabric bins? Thanks so much. Can't wait for the book!
How is your daughter doing? Sending healing energy your way.