Proponents of Feng Shui often explain that a cluttered home can lead to a cluttered and confused mind. Whether you agree with that or not, there’s no denying that a closet like this can be difficult to deal with.

Are you ready to make a change from your current mess to a useful wardrobe storage system? While it may not be fun, it’s easier than you think. Just take the following steps and in just a few afternoons you can create a closet that works for you.

Start with the hardest part. Take everything out of your closet and determine realistically what should move back in. While organizers recommend letting go of anything you haven’t worn in a year, for many people that isn’t realistic. Instead, plan to set aside a section of your closet for those items or if possible put them in another closet along with your out-of-season clothes. Make it a point to consider wearing them frequently. If the answer is always no, you know it’s time to give them away. You should be left with only the clothes you wear regularly and maybe a few special items.

Next, take a good look at your empty closet. Are there underused sections? For example, this woman’s closet has nothing in the bottom half. It’s easy to ignore vertical space, but with a little effort you can add significant storage space.

Determine what you need to capture that space effectively. You can find additional storage pieces at very reasonable prices in discount department stores and home improvement warehouses. There’s no need to spend a lot of money to get extra storage, although the final look of custom closets can be very inviting.

Once you’re done it’s time to replace your clothes. Consider a plan that allows you to select what you need with very little effort. For example, put your work clothes together in one area and your exercise clothes in another. Spend the time it takes to determine what belongs on a hanger and what should be in a drawer.

Be sure to step back and admire your work when you’re finished. And you will find additional pleasure every time you reach for a specific item in your wardrobe and it’s right there waiting for you. Turn your closet into a place of comfort and indulgence, and you can be as happy as this man!