Are you used to repelling the moment of the big storage and your cupboards overflow? The 1-3-5 method may well be the solution. Simple and structured, it helps to regain control of a room without feeling overwhelmed. Its principle is to organize household chores in order of importance and size, from the heaviest to the most harmless, to move forward step by step and find an interior – and a lighter mind.
How does the 1-3-5 method work?
Rather than attacking an entire room, which may seem discouraging, the method proposes to split the effort. As Monika Puccio explains, expert in interior decoration at the magazine UK stylist : “Divide the set of the task into small pieces can make what seems to be an insurmountable and overwhelming task much more manageable and achievable“. She adds:”The declining method 1-3-5 helps you regain control of your space by being productive without feeling overwhelmed by unmanageable tasks to come“.
Concretely, just draw three columns on a sheet and distribute the tasks to be accomplished:
- In the first, write a main task as declining and reorganizing the central furniture;
- In the second, note three medium size tasks, for example cleaning the coffee table, sucking the carpet and putting the sofa back in order;
- In the third, place five quick actions, such as sorting a few papers, wiping a surface or opening the curtains.
A motivating effect from the first action
One of the advantages of this method is its immediate impact on motivation. According to Monika Puccio: “By performing the most important task first, you will immediately see a considerable impact on the room, which will give you immediate gratuity and satisfaction, which can motivate you to attack you with medium and smaller tasks“. This system encourages to advance by stages, quickly obtaining a visual and psychological reward.
A method not made for everyone
If the method seduces by its simplicity, it will not suit everyone. The expert in Vicky Silverthorn clearance recalls: “It will probably work if you are already a naturally organized person – you like to code by color, label, decant, etc. If your brain does not work like this, add the additional organization of your organization may more likely to dissuade you from starting“. For people who constantly repel the major storage sessions, the 1-3-5 method can be a precious help to get started. But if it further complicates the organization it does not facilitate it, it may become counterproductive.