There's a version of this that turns into a bigger project than it needs to be. The simpler starting point is emptying fully first.
Key takeaways
- Getting emptying fully first right early saves a second round of changes later.
- Categorizing before containing is worth deciding deliberately, not defaulting into.
- Seasonal rotation is worth deciding deliberately, not defaulting into.
Emptying fully first
Emptying fully first matters more than it might seem at first. Getting this part right tends to save a second round of changes later.
Categorizing before containing
Consider categorizing before containing in the context of everything else in play, not on its own. A choice that works in isolation can still throw off the balance of the rest.
Seasonal rotation
Consider seasonal rotation in the context of everything else in play, not on its own. A choice that works in isolation can still throw off the balance of the rest.
Lab note
Make the smallest change first. It's usually reversible, and it tells you whether the bigger version of the project is even worth doing.
Frequently asked questions
How long does this usually take to get right?
It depends on the scope of what you're changing, but most people see the biggest improvement from the first few adjustments rather than from doing everything at once.
Does this apply if I'm renting or working with a temporary setup?
Most of the ideas here don't require permanent changes, so they translate reasonably well to a temporary or rented situation.
How often should this be revisited?
Circumstances change — routines shift, seasons change what's practical — so it's worth a quick review every few months rather than treating it as a one-time fix.
