Start The School Year Strong: The Impact of Organization on Focus and Emotional Well-Being
One of the best ways to ease into this transition is by preparing your physical space—your bedroom, dorm room, or study area—to support your new school year goals. As stated in an article in *Psychology Today, found that “many people find the most pronounced positive effect of decluttering to be a feeling of lightness and increased productivity"
When your surroundings are organized and thoughtfully arranged, it helps create a clear and focused mind, making it easier to tackle the academic challenges ahead. Moreover, having emotional intelligence means acknowledging the things that bring us joy and comfort, allowing space in our hearts and homes for those sentimental items that give us a sense of belonging and continuity.
While organizing my client’s home office, she asked if I could take a look at her son’s room to see how it could be better organized. Her 11-year-old son, who struggles with ADHD and has trouble focusing, was surrounded by piles of clothes, scattered notebooks, and a cluttered desk.
He shared his anxiety and stress about going back to school, wishing summer could last just a little longer. He also admitted that he couldn’t find his supplies, and the thought of starting a new year brought mixed emotions—excited to see friends but also anxious about the unknowns of the upcoming school year.
As I assessed the situation, it became clear that his disorganized space was contributing to his stress. It wasn’t just his room that was cluttered, but also his mind, making it hard for him to relax and feel ready for the challenges ahead.
As a professional organizer, I know how much a chaotic environment can amplify stress. The good news is that with a few simple steps, you can transform your child’s room into a calm, organized space that sets them up for success. In this article, you’ll find practical tips to help manage stress—yours or your child’s—and start the school year with confidence, knowing that their space is ready for whatever the new year brings. I’ll share my top five tips for creating a space that not only helps you stay organized, and enhances your time management but also nurtures your emotional well-being so that you can engage fully in the upcoming school year with confidence, clarity, and emotional resilience. Whether you’re celebrating past achievements or setting new goals, these tips will help you create an environment that supports your journey to success.
Celebrate Your Wins
In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the moments that truly matter. But celebrating your achievements—no matter how big or small—can be incredibly rewarding. Maybe you earned a ribbon at the Science Fair or won a trophy at Soccer camp. These are moments worth recognizing, but how often do we just leave these keepsakes lying around without a real place to honor them?
Or maybe it’s last year’s homework, essays, projects, and artwork. Acknowledge their lessons and achievements but put them in perspective and start managing your keepsakes and reduce the visual clutter.
When we get home, it’s important to find a spot that truly reflects the significance of these achievements. One simple way to do this is by creating a dedicated space in your home. Try putting together a file for artwork, or essays. Design a scrapbook filled with photos, mementos, and little notes that capture the joy and pride of those special times.
For trophies, medals, or other awards, consider displaying them on a shelf where they can be seen and appreciated. Whether it’s in your living room, office, or bedroom, these reminders of your success can be a great source of motivation. They serve as proof of your hard work and can inspire you to keep going, instead of distractions caused by paper clutter, nostalgia, or our past unresolved emotions triggered by these objects.
Celebrating your wins isn’t just about looking back—it’s about inspiring your future. By taking the time to organize and display your achievements, you create a positive space that encourages ongoing success. So go ahead, take that moment, and let your victories shine!
Cherish your Keepsakes
It's common to find cherished items like photos or mementos tucked away in drawers or boxes. While these keepsakes hold special meaning, they can quickly accumulate and become overwhelming. To give them the attention they deserve, consider displaying the most meaningful ones in a visible spot, and store the rest safely with labels so you can easily revisit them later. Be mindful of your space—too many items on display can lead to clutter, so choose what truly resonates with you.
To help decide what to keep out, ask yourself: Does this item bring me joy or inspiration? If it does, give it a special place in your home. If not, consider storing it away for safekeeping or even letting it go if it no longer serves a purpose.
Designate a Study Zone
Designate a specific area in your home just for studying. This study zone setup should be free from distractions, well-lit, and stocked with essentials like notebooks, pens, and a computer. For example, a small desk in the corner of your bedroom with a comfortable chair can make a big difference in how well you focus. Pay attention to your desk setup—keep it organized and clutter-free to help maintain concentration. A good chair with proper back support is also crucial for long study sessions.
Consider what kind of learner you are; some people need a quiet, isolated spot, while others might prefer a space with some background noise. Add personal touches that motivate you, like a bulletin board for notes or inspirational quotes. Don’t forget to keep your study materials within easy reach to minimize disruptions during your study time.
Keep Your School Supplies Organized
To stay organized, keep all your school supplies in one place, like a desk drawer or a shelf, so you can easily find what you need. Use containers or organizers to sort items like pens, paper, and folders. For instance, labeled bins on a shelf can help you quickly grab your math notebook or art supplies without digging through clutter.
Having the right supplies on hand is essential for staying prepared. Basics like notebooks, pens, pencils, highlighters, and folders are must-haves. But let’s be honest—getting new supplies is always a little exciting. Each new school year brings the chance to add something fresh to your collection, whether it’s colorful markers or a sleek new planner. Even if subjects like science or math felt challenging, the idea of new supplies sparked my imagination and made the prospect of tackling those projects a bit more fun.
You’d be surprised that many people and companies toss and donate perfectly good office and school supplies. Search Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle.org to get supplies for free. Or Books for OpenBooks. Art supplies: can be found a thrift stores or look for non-profits in your area like Watershed in Evanston IL. They sell art supplies at a fraction of the cost.
Create a Balanced Daily Routine
Establishing a consistent daily routine is key to managing your schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and relaxation effectively. By setting specific times for studying, taking breaks, and going to bed, you create a sense of stability that can boost your overall success. For example, you might choose to tackle homework right after school, take a 30-minute break to recharge, and then review your notes before sticking to a regular bedtime each night. This structured approach helps you stay on track and prevents last-minute cramming or stress.
A well-planned routine goes beyond just academic tasks. It’s also essential for maintaining a healthy diet (Click here to go to meal planning tips) and getting quality sleep. Consistent meal times and a balanced diet fuel both your body and mind, enhancing your focus and energy levels. Additionally, sticking to a regular sleep schedule improves your rest, which is crucial for cognitive function and overall well-being. By integrating these elements into your daily routine, you set yourself up for better performance and a healthier lifestyle.
In conclusion,
To conclude, decluttering your space and organizing areas for school supplies and study zones not only streamlines your tasks but also creates a sense of control and clarity.
A well-organized environment reduces stress and improves focus, which enhances emotional intelligence and resilience. By setting up a balanced daily routine that includes study time, breaks, and bedtime, while also maintaining a healthy diet and sleep schedule, you lay a solid foundation for success in the new school year.
Organizing your space supports physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Honoring keepsakes that inspire you and creating a dedicated study area can significantly boost your focus and motivation.
Start organizing your space today to begin the school year with a clear mind and strong foundation. Effective space and time management will help you cultivate mindfulness, increase emotional resilience, and adapt better to challenges. Make these small changes now for a big impact on your success!
Free Resources
- Start the school year stress-free with an organized space. Create a study zone, keep inspiring items, and set a balanced routine. Subscribe for your free checklist now! Get Your Free Checklist- For free books, try reading from online PDFs and other resources. Websites like Every Poet, Library Genesis, Open Library, Project Gutenberg,
- Go to Facebook Marketplace or Freecycle.org to get used supplies for free. You’d be surprised that many people and companies toss and donate perfectly good office and school supplies. For Art supplies, try thrift shopping at places like Wasteshed for art supplies or Salvation Army for reduced prices on anything including supplies.
*Psychology Today- “Why Decluttering Can Lead to Increased Brain Power.”.. along with a feeling of lightness and greater positivity. Updated September 22, 2023
Aug 8, 2024 by
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