My Life Sorted: Stacey Solomon's Method – More Than Just Organising
So, you've seen Stacey Solomon's meticulously organised home, a haven of calm amidst the chaos of motherhood and a thriving career. You’ve probably scrolled through countless images of her perfectly labelled storage containers and aesthetically pleasing pantries, thinking, "I need that in my life!" But Stacey's "Sorted" life isn't just about pretty jars and colour-coded clothes; it's a philosophy, a mindset shift that's surprisingly accessible, even if your life feels more "organised chaos" than "organised heaven."
Understanding the Stacey Solomon Effect: It's Not Just About Tidying
Forget the Marie Kondo method (though there's certainly overlap); Stacey’s approach is less about ruthless decluttering and more about creating a functional, happy, and emotionally resonant space. It's about making your home work for you, not against you. This is key. It's about creating a haven where you feel relaxed and capable, not overwhelmed and stressed.
The Power of "Making Space" – Both Physical and Mental
Stacey consistently emphasizes the importance of "making space." This isn't just about physical space – although that’s a big part of it – but also about creating mental space. A cluttered home often reflects a cluttered mind. By decluttering and organizing, we create room for clarity, focus, and peace. Think of it like this: your brain is like your home. When it's cluttered with anxieties and to-dos, it's harder to function. Decluttering your home can help declutter your mind.
Decluttering isn't a one-off; It's a continuous journey
This is crucial! Life happens. Kids grow, seasons change, and our needs evolve. Stacey’s not suggesting you achieve some perfect, unchanging state of tidiness. She’s showing us how to create a system that can adapt to the inevitable ups and downs of daily life. Think of it as ongoing maintenance, not a Herculean task to be tackled once a year.
The "Tap Out" Technique - When Enough is Enough
This is one of my favourite aspects of Stacey's approach. She advocates for recognizing when you're overwhelmed and simply "tapping out." Don't try to do everything at once. Break tasks down into manageable chunks, and don't beat yourself up if you don't achieve perfection. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.
Embrace Imperfection – It's Okay!
Remember that Instagram highlight reel is just a snapshot. Real life is messy, chaotic, and beautiful in its imperfection. Stacey herself showcases the realities of family life – the spilled milk, the crayon marks on the walls, the toys strewn across the floor. Her organized spaces aren’t about hiding the mess, but managing it in a way that doesn't feel overwhelming.
The Magic of Labeling and Storage Solutions – Function over Fashion
While Stacey’s home is undeniably aesthetically pleasing, the focus is on functionality. Clear labels, well-organized storage solutions, and designated spaces for everything are vital to her system. This isn't about having the most expensive organizers; it's about finding what works best for your space and your lifestyle.
####### DIY and Upcycling – Adding Personality and Saving Money
A large part of Stacey's approach involves DIY and upcycling. She often repurposes items to create clever storage solutions, adding a personal touch to her organized spaces. This not only saves money but also infuses her home with personality and unique charm.
######## The Importance of Routine and Rituals
Maintaining an organized space requires consistent effort. Stacey emphasizes the importance of establishing daily or weekly routines for tasks like tidying up, laundry, and meal prep. These routines become rituals, creating a sense of order and predictability that reduces stress.
######### Family Involvement – Making it a Team Effort
Stacey actively involves her family in the organization process. This fosters a sense of shared responsibility and teaches valuable life skills. It’s not just about her having a tidy house; it’s about creating a collaborative environment where everyone contributes.
########## The Emotional Connection to Your Space
Stacey speaks openly about the emotional connection she has to her home. Her organizing isn't just about aesthetics; it's about creating a nurturing and calming space for herself and her family. It’s about surrounding herself with things that bring her joy and comfort.
########### Celebrating Small Wins – It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Don't get discouraged by setbacks. Celebrate even the smallest victories along the way. Whether it's finally clearing out that overflowing junk drawer or consistently sticking to your new cleaning routine, acknowledge your progress and give yourself credit.
############ Adapting to Changing Needs
Families and lifestyles change. Your organizing system needs to be flexible enough to adapt to these changes. Don't cling to a system that no longer works for you. Be prepared to adjust and tweak your approach as needed.
############# The Power of a Declutter Mindset
The real magic behind Stacey Solomon's method lies in cultivating a declutter mindset – a proactive approach to managing possessions and creating a space that supports your well-being. It’s not about perfection; it's about progress.
############## From Chaos to Calm: A Transformation Journey
Stacey's journey hasn't been about overnight transformations. It's a continuous process of learning, adapting, and refining her system. Her success lies in her consistent effort and willingness to embrace the process.
Conclusion: Finding Your Own "Sorted" Life
Stacey Solomon's method isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. It's a framework, a philosophy you can adapt to your own unique circumstances and personality. The key takeaway isn't about achieving Instagram-worthy perfection, but about creating a functional, happy, and emotionally resonant home that supports your well-being. It's about finding your own "sorted" life – whatever that looks like for you. Remember, it's a journey, not a destination!
FAQs: Beyond the Organized Home
1. How does Stacey Solomon's method differ from other organizing methods like Marie Kondo's? While both emphasize decluttering, Stacey's approach is less about ruthless purging and more about creating a functional and emotionally resonant space. Kondo focuses heavily on keeping only items that "spark joy," while Solomon prioritizes practicality and creating a system that works for your lifestyle.
2. Is Stacey Solomon's method suitable for individuals with ADHD or other neurodivergent conditions? Many aspects of her method, such as breaking down tasks into smaller steps and focusing on routine, can be particularly helpful for individuals with ADHD or other neurodivergent conditions. However, it may require adjustments and modifications to fit individual needs.
3. How can I incorporate Stacey Solomon's approach into my life if I'm a renter with limited storage space? The principles of decluttering, labeling, and creating functional systems remain relevant, even in smaller spaces. Creative storage solutions, vertical space utilization, and a focus on multi-functional furniture can help maximize limited space.
4. Does Stacey's method work for people who don't enjoy cleaning or organizing? The key is to make the process manageable and rewarding. Break down tasks into small, manageable chunks, and celebrate small wins. Focus on the positive impact of a well-organized space on your mental well-being. It's about creating a system that works for you, not fighting against your natural inclinations.
5. How can I avoid feeling overwhelmed when starting the process of decluttering and organizing using Stacey's method? Start small! Pick one area – a drawer, a shelf, a cupboard – and focus on that. Don't try to tackle everything at once. Remember "tapping out" and celebrate small wins. The journey is more important than the immediate outcome.