"A place for everything and everything in its place."
- Benjamin Franklin
This quote appears simple and yet we often have trouble putting it into practice. If we did, lost keys and wallets, misplaced phones, and missing documents would be a thing of the past.
The key to implementing this philosophy is creating systems that work for you. For example, a bowl for keys placed by the door you most often use to enter and exit your home, could create a useful habit for all family members. A valet for men to put their wallet and watch on where they typically undress, enables them to empty pockets at the end of each day, knowing where these items will be each morning. And, perhaps most universal, is plugging your phone in to charge/back-up each night in the same location.
If you put a new system in place, you will need to be disciplined about using the system for a few weeks. This will turn the action into routine.
Creating systems enables you to develop the habit and discipline of "A place for everything and everything in its place." This will ultimately save you time and aggravation that would otherwise be spent searching!