Order Brings Peace

As the season changes from summer to back-to-school, Ellen Mongan offers tips for restoring order to our homes and schedules.

There is an appointed time for everything and a time for every affair under the heavens. (Ecclesiastes 3:1)

This refreshing verse has seen me through all seasons of life! It gives me the courage to begin again as hope springs in my soul.  

We are called daily to lay down our lives in sacrificial love for our husbands and children. We sometimes exhaust ourselves, giving all we have. There may be areas of our lives that we may fall behind in, such as organization, because we must tend to the needs of our children. Summertime is often such a season! It is carefree, less structured, and a time to build memories together as a family. 

A time to bring order to our homes

We embark on a new season as we turn the corner toward the school year! Life becomes more structured, time management becomes more critical, and home order is essential for life to go smoothly. Order brings peace. Prior planning prevents poor performance! 

So, how do you organize and manage your time without losing your mind? You can read various articles and books on organization. You will try to master the skills that work for you. I keep my home running smoothly with these organizational skills, which I have learned after raising seven children. My life runs on lists, daily schedules, a well-planned calendar, and the ability to delegate. 

First, I try to center my day on Christ as I listen for that still, small voice to guide me.

The human heart plans the way, but the Lord directs the steps. (Proverbs 16:9)

God will tell you whether to turn to the right or the left if we listen and obey:

And your ears shall hear a word behind you: "This is the way; walk in it," when you would turn to the right or the left. (Isaiah 30:21)

I start my day in prayer, asking my Heavenly Father what He wants me to accomplish today. Sometimes, I hear silence; other times, I hear a clear direction. I always bring a small notebook to prayer time. Instead of letting a busy mind occupy my prayer time, I put my thoughts on paper. After my alone time with Jesus,  I pray daily with my husband. During this time, we also discuss our schedule for the day. Later in the day, I pray with my prayer partner.  

Then, I begin my day. To help me organize my daily life, I take a sheet of paper with three columns on it. I try to accomplish those things on my list first. Here is an example: 

How do I organize my week? Since so many things are calling our names, I concentrate on one area of importance each day. This helps me fulfill my role as a wife and mother with order and peace. Your area of concentration may look different than mine: 

Monday: Home                          

Tuesday: Service Day                                    

Wednesday: My Time                               

Thursday: Bible Study/Fellowship    

Friday: Date Day with Husband 

Saturday: Family Day 

Sunday: Lord’s Day 

Organizational Tips for Busy Moms 

1. I made a gift closet when the children were young. It was handy when a child would come home from school and say, “I am invited to a birthday party.” I would inquire, “WHEN??” to which they would reply, with a smile, “Tomorrow.”  Thus, the gift closet was born, and I still have it. I buy gifts that are on sale ahead of time and use them when they fit the person and occasion.
2. I also buy cards ahead at Dollar Tree or Dollar General and put them in plastic baggies marked “Birthday,” “Encouragement,” “Sympathy,” or “Get Well.” I have a kindness drawer in my office. One day a week, I send out cards to people who are sick or need encouragement. 
3. If I have not used an item of clothing within a year, I give it away. This brings me peace. My clothing closet is color-coded and categorized. This helps me get dressed quickly and look nice daily. I buy them only when they are on sale and place them in the closet. Then, if I have a special occasion to attend, I have a new dress waiting for me to wear without having to shop. 
4. My closet is also a shared closet. If someone needs a white sweater, a black pair of shoes, or even a piece of jewelry, they know where to go. My “sharing” closet has blessed many people who find themselves in a fashion emergency. I sometimes even say, “Keep the dress; you look great in it!”

Each of us has our strengths and weaknesses. Organization will come easy; to others, it will always be a struggle. Try some of these ideas and see what works for you.  

Share your thoughts with the Catholic Mom community! You'll find the comment box below the author's bio and list of recommended articles.

Copyright 2024 Ellen Mongan
Images: copyright 2024 Ellen Mongan, all rights reserved.