How to Organize a Storage Closet and actually Find Your Stuff & STOP the Overspending Cycle

July / August 2025
Surviving the summer? In this newsletter: Organizing Tip: How to Organize a Storage Closet and find your stuff easily. Money Tip: Break the Overspending Cycle. 

How to Organize a Storage Closet (and Actually Find What You Need)
Storage closets often start with good intentions — holiday decorations, extra paper towels, off-season clothes — and somehow end up as black holes of forgotten items. If your storage closet feels more chaotic than helpful, here’s a simple system to bring order back to your space:

1. Start with a Full Emptying
Take everything out. Yes, everything. This allows you to:

• See exactly what you have
• Clean the shelves
• Mentally reset the space

2. Group Similar Items
Sort items into broad categories:

• Holiday décor
• Tools
• Office supplies
• Paper products
• Keepsakes

This makes it easier to assign zones once you start putting things back.
3. Purge the Unnecessary
Be honest: Do you need 17 extension cords? Are those broken picture frames worth fixing? Let go of duplicates, damaged items, or things you haven’t touched in years.
4. Invest in Clear Bins & Labels
Clear containers allow you to see what’s inside without opening every box. Use large labels — both on bins and on shelves — so anyone can find (and put away) items easily.
5. Store by Accessibility

• Frequently used items at eye level
• Heavy items on the floor
• Light, rarely used items on top shelves

6. Review Regularly
Make it a habit to assess your storage closet every 6-12 months. Things creep in over time — stay ahead of the clutter!
Pro Tip: If you dread the project, hire us. Sometimes an outside perspective makes the decisions easier.

Breaking the Overspending Cycle:
Simple Habits to Help You Spend Smarter
We’ve all been there: You check your bank account and wonder “Where did my money go?” Overspending can sneak up on anyone, whether it’s impulsive online shopping, too many dinners out, or small daily purchases that quietly add up.
The good news? Overspending isn’t a character flaw — it’s often a habit. And like any habit, it can be changed. Here are some simple, practical ways to create healthier spending habits and take control of your finances:

1. Know Your TriggersStart by identifying when and where you tend to overspend:

• Late-night online shopping?
• Emotional “treat yourself” moments?
• Sales and “limited-time” offers?
• Subscription renewals you forgot about?

Once you recognize your triggers, you can put systems in place to interrupt the pattern.
2. Practice the 24-Hour Rule

• Before making any non-essential purchase, wait 24 hours.
• This pause allows emotions to settle.
• You may realize you don’t actually need the item.
• Keep a “want list” — write it down instead of buying immediately. Many items will naturally drop off the list over time.

3. Create and Use a Budget (That You Actually Like!) You don't have to use one!! If you do want to here are some tips.

• A budget isn’t about restriction — it’s about making sure your money is going where you truly want it to go.
• Build in fun money so you don’t feel deprived.
• Use apps or simple spreadsheets to track spending.
• Review your spending weekly to stay aware of patterns. *******This is a must! Budget or no budget you need to review your spending weekly.

4. Simplify Your AccountsThe more complicated your finances, the easier it is to lose track. Try:

• Automatic bill pay for recurring expenses.
• Cancel unused subscriptions.
• Use one primary credit card so you see everything in one place.

5. Use Cash or Debit for Discretionary Spending

• Studies show we spend less when using cash.
• Set aside a weekly amount for things like dining out, shopping, or entertainment.
• Once it’s gone — it’s gone.

6. Make Savings Automatic

• Treat savings like a bill:
• Schedule automatic transfers to savings or investment accounts.
• You won’t miss money you don’t see.

7. Build Mindful Shopping Habits
Ask yourself:

• “Will I still want this in 30 days?”
• “Do I already own something similar?”
• “Is this purchase aligned with my long-term goals?”

Sometimes simply slowing down your decision-making is enough to avoid unnecessary purchases.
8. Get Support if You Need ItIf overspending feels out of control, don’t hesitate to:

• Work with a Daily Money Manager (like me!)
• Ask a trusted friend or partner for accountability
• Speak with a financial counselor or therapist

The Bottom LineOverspending doesn’t happen overnight — and neither does financial discipline. The key is building small habits, practiced consistently, that add up over time. By becoming more intentional with your money, you’ll create peace of mind and a stronger financial future.

Adele Tusson-Gross, CDMM®
Certified Daily Money Manager® & Chief Executive Organizer
Simple Solution Organizing LLC
Daily Money Management | Professional Organizing & Downsizing
706-714-1314