Operations isn’t just for systems and spreadsheets—it’s also the stuff of everyday life. From how we manage our time to how we make small decisions that smooth out the week, it’s all connected.
This monthly series, Ops in Everyday, highlights the tiny process tweaks and small shifts that help things run more easily—whether at work, at home, or somewhere in between. These aren’t big, dramatic changes. They’re the kind of wins that make you think, “Oh… that actually worked better.”
One theme that’s been coming up again and again for me lately? Put things where you use them. It sounds obvious, but stick with me—this one’s worth revisiting. Even though I’m aware of this concept, I still find places in our home where we’re doing things the hard way. And often, it’s because we’re following unspoken rules we never stopped to question.
You know the ones—this goes here because that’s where it’s always gone. Or where your mom, a best friend, or new favorite influencer puts it. But what if we based those decisions on what actually helps get things done?
Here are three ways I’m doing just that in and around our home:
Toothbrushes in multiple bathrooms.
We’ve got more than one set because brushing teeth is non-negotiable—but doing it in one specific bathroom isn’t. Right now, the kids are less likely to fuss if they don’t have to climb the stairs and be “all alone” to brush. So we put toothbrushes where it’s easiest to get the job done. (Bonus: More recently I added a super simple timer to the bathroom counter so I’m no longer in charge of telling them they haven’t brushed long enough. Blame the timer, guys. Not me.)
A full-size trash can in the car.
Not a cute little one in the cupholder. A real one. Lined with a Kroger or Target bag and Velcro’d to the floor of the back seat. Does it look good? No. Does it work? Yes. It holds water bottles, wrappers, and all the random trash that would otherwise end up wedged in seats or tossed in door pockets. We empty it once a week or so, and it’s the reason you aren’t swimming in trash when you ride with us.
Laundry baskets wherever clothes come off.
We have more laundry baskets than people—and that’s by design. Each person has their own, and we’ve placed them in the spots where clothes are most likely to land. The laundry room (which is also our mudroom and garage entry) gets an extra basket because, for some reason, it’s a high-traffic outfit-changing zone. It’s tight, so we use a soft-sided basket that sits on top of the dryer. I don’t put anything in there that isn’t absolutely essential because it is such a small space. When I say essential, I mean it.
(Bonus: Everyone’s laundry is done separately, so there’s no sorting later—just wash, dry, fold, done… and all the easier to get put away that same day. Second Bonus: I also keep one like this in everyone’s closet for clothes that no longer fit or “aren’t my style anymore”. One step closer to consigning or donating.)
This idea translates to workspaces, too. Putting things where you use them is about choosing what makes sense—not just what’s expected. It prioritizes logic, ease, and efficiency—and honestly, it’s one of the most practical ways to streamline how things get done.
And if aesthetics matter? You don’t always have to pick between function and form. The backseat trash can might not win any design awards, but it’s earned its place. And honestly, no one’s ever criticized it. In fact, it’s become a crowd favorite. My kids’ friends ask where it is if it’s missing, and every adult who rides in the back comments on what a brilliant (and obvious) idea it is.
At the end of the day, here’s what these examples are really about:
Have more than one of something if it makes life easier. Choose tools and items that actually serve their purpose—otherwise, they’re likely just clutter taking up space and making more work to manage, not less. And set up your spaces with intention, so the stuff you use every day actually helps you do what needs done. Simple wins again.
Missed last month’s edition? You can read it here.
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