the DiLEMMA Have you ever caught yourself wondering where you left the keys? Retraced your steps to come up empty? Is it a repeated phrase in your household, "Honey, where are the keys?"
Sometimes it is the things we use every day that are the hardest to find. We walk in the door and set things down wherever we can find space or we drop keys into a coat pocket that later is left in the closet as weather warms up. Inconsistency in our habits leads to forgetfulness and frustration later when we're ready to leave the house.
a SOLUTiON
Creating consistent habits and more permanent places for every day items like keys, purses, computer cases, briefcases, backpacks etc. reduces stress and saves time as we are flying out the door.TiPS
Scope out your entry area. Really, go stand and stare at the area! Find a place near the entry area to use as a key drop. Is there wall space for a slim shelf, hook rack or a single nail or hook? Maybe inside a nearby closet there is room for a hook? Is there enough floor space for a narrow table?
Practice putting keys in a basket, bowl or on a hook as soon as you walk through the door. The new drop spot will save time and headaches as the new habit becomes an 'auto-pilot' routine.
Lighten the load on your key chain if your keys jingle and jangle as you walk. Sort through the massive collection, test the keys to make sure they actually open something. Keep only the frequently used keys on a ring used daily. Label the rest and store in a safe place.
Consider giving a key to a trusted neighbor or keep one in your billfold for emergencies. Keep an extra car key on a separate ring near the entry for accidental lock outs.
New habits strung together form routines.
Routines reduce stress and give us control over the chaos!
Enjoy a new habit today and say,
"Honey, I know where to find the keys! Woo Hoo!"
"Honey, I know where to find the keys! Woo Hoo!"