Professional organizers may not claim to be perfect, but they certainly have expert strategies for staying efficient and clutter-free. If you’ve ever wondered how organizing pros start their day, the answer goes beyond simple tidying techniques. Their morning routines focus on setting a positive tone for the day with habits that enhance productivity, mental clarity, and organization.
Here are some professional organizing tips to streamline your mornings and make your entire day more structured and stress-free.
1. Start the Day with a Personal Check-In
Before diving into emails or chores, take a moment to assess your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
“I like to recite a mantra in the shower that helps me gauge my day’s energy level,” says Maeve Richmond, founder of Maeve’s Method. “If I’m feeling a 5 out of 10, I know to pace myself. If I’m at an 8, I go all in.”
2. Make Your Bed for Instant Order
A simple habit like making the bed can set the tone for a productive day. Not only does it make your space look tidier, but it also provides a small win early in the morning.
“At the end of the day, I want to relax in a neat space,” says Julie Stobbe of Mind Over Clutter. “Making the bed helps me keep my room organized and my mind clear.”
3. Review Your To-Do List
Before the day gets hectic, take a few minutes to outline priorities. Reviewing your to-do list in the morning allows for better time management and reduces last-minute stress.
“Having a structured morning routine helps reduce procrastination and keeps me focused on key tasks,” says productivity coach Rosenthal.
4. Prepare the Night Before
A smooth morning often starts the night before. Taking time to tidy up, prepare meals, or lay out clothes can make mornings significantly easier.
“As a working mom, I clean the kitchen, pack my work bag, and set up my coffee machine the night before,” says Laura Kinsella, founder of Urban Organyze. “It lightens my mental load in the morning.”
5. Use Visual Reminders
To stay on top of important tasks, professional organizers recommend leaving visual cues where you’ll see them.
“If I need to remember something, I leave a sticky note on my mirror or refrigerator,” says organizing expert Williams. “Sometimes, I even tape a note to the bathroom door!”
6. Meditate or Practice Mindfulness
Starting the day with mindfulness can improve focus and reduce stress. Even just five minutes of quiet meditation or deep breathing can make a difference.
“I spend a few moments in bed before getting up, just being still and setting my intentions for the day,” says Amelia Meena, founder of Appleshine.
7. Do Something That Brings You Joy
Incorporating a small joy into your morning can set a positive tone for the entire day. Whether it’s listening to music, enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, or reading a motivational quote, small moments of happiness matter.
“I savor five minutes with my coffee—it’s my non-negotiable morning ritual,” says Kinsella. “It’s my personal moment of peace.”
8. Lay Out Clothes in Advance
Decision fatigue can slow down your mornings. Choosing an outfit the night before eliminates unnecessary stress and saves valuable time.
“It’s much easier to get out of bed for my morning walk when my clothes are already set out,” says Stobbe.
By incorporating these professional organizing tips into your morning routine, you’ll create a more structured and stress-free start to your day. Small, intentional habits lead to long-term productivity and a well-organized life.
