By Hope and Encouragement

So it’s official… 2026 is almost here! If you’re anything like us, a new year can feel both daunting and exciting at the same time. We want to remind you that it is ok for both of those feelings to coexist. Regardless of the anticipation you feel moving into a new year, we would like to provide you with some practical tools to implement today to curate an orderly home for 2026.

Clear the Clutter

Take note, we did not say “purge” or “donate” the clutter. We said “clear the clutter”. For starters, our homes can feel like they are exploding after the holidays with excess decor, boxes of gifts, and an extra layer of dust. One of the very first ways to create an orderly home in the new year is to give yourself a fresh new slate. Put the Christmas decor away, ensure all items have a home and are put away, and out of sight. Finally, give your surfaces and home a good and thorough clean.

This does not mean you need to donate anything that clutters or takes up space. However, we have noticed that orderly homes can feel out of reach simply because there are too many things to manage. After we clear the clutter, we have room to evaluate what we would like to add back in.

Hone in on a Scheduling System

An orderly home is not simply produced just by the items in it, but also by the systems in place to ensure it runs smoothly. What do we mean? Consider your current calendar, house cleaning routine, and communication styles. Are appointments being missed? Do you feel as though you can’t keep up with responsibilities in and out of the home? The simple answer may be to reevaluate your home’s scheduling systems. Here are a few of our top picks to consider…

  • A digital calendar that syncs with family member’s calendars that can double as a running to-do list
  • Create systems (think laundry, household chores, meals) that take the guess work out of your daily responsiblities
  • Consider outsourcing any work necessary that could benefit you and your family immediately (grocery pick-up, hire a house cleaner, etc.)
  • How do you begin and start your day? What microhabits can you incorporate to set you up for success each day?

Prioritize Rest

None of us are meant to do it all. Thus, when striving for an orderly home in 2026, we also need to take into consideration that we are not superhuman. Prioritizing consistent rest is vital for our well-being and charges us to be who we need to be the rest of the week. This may mean taking a Sabbath day of rest each weekend, or incorporating a peaceful evening routine as you wind down for bed. Whatever it is for you, be sure it’s scheduled and prioritized. We are sure you’ll see the impact.

Here at SW Builders, we pray 2026 is a year of incredible growth, opportunities, and memories. Happy New Year!