12 Simple Habits That Help You Stop Losing Keys, Wallet, and Sunglasses

Losing your keys, wallet, or sunglasses can throw off your entire day, leaving you scrambling to find them. However, creating a few simple habits can prevent this from happening. With a little effort and mindfulness, you can keep these items within reach at all times. Follow these steps to make sure you always know where your essentials are. 

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Always Use a Designated Spot for Your Essentials

Having a specific place for your keys, wallet, and sunglasses can make all the difference. Whether it is a small table by the door or a dedicated drawer, a designated spot ensures these items are always within reach. When you make a habit of using this spot, you will spend less time searching and more time doing what you need to. It is an easy way to reduce unnecessary stress when you are in a rush.

Over time, your brain will associate this spot with the items you store there, making it easier to remember where you put them. This simple step eliminates the need to search around the house or your car for these essentials. A consistent routine helps you stay organized and cuts down on last-minute panic. With a little discipline, this habit will become second nature.

Use Keychains and Attachments for Quick Identification

Adding a keychain to your keys or a case to your sunglasses makes them easier to find. Keychains come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, and they can make your essentials more noticeable. A brightly colored or uniquely shaped keychain ensures your keys are easy to spot, whether in a bag or on a table. This habit might seem small, but it plays a big role in reducing time spent searching for lost items.

The same idea applies to your wallet. Using a wallet with a distinctive design or color can help you easily locate it in your bag. It also makes it less likely for you to accidentally leave it behind. With these accessories, you are not only adding a personal touch to your items but also making them more accessible in any situation.

Implement the “One Place, One Time” Rule

If you are always in the habit of placing your essentials in the same spot, it becomes second nature to always know where they are. The “one place, one time” rule means that you commit to putting your items in their designated place every time. It can be as simple as placing your wallet in the same side pocket of your bag or leaving your sunglasses on the dashboard when you are at home. This consistency ensures that you never have to think twice about where your items are.

By sticking to this rule, you avoid the temptation of leaving things in random spots, which often leads to losing them. It also saves time since you will not waste energy looking for something you know should be in one spot. The habit makes staying organized a lot easier, reducing the mental load of tracking down essential items.

Invest in a Smart Tracking Device

Tracking devices have become increasingly popular for keeping track of everyday items like keys, wallets, and sunglasses. These small, easily attachable gadgets can be linked to your phone, allowing you to quickly locate your belongings when they are misplaced. The device works by emitting a sound or sending a location alert to your phone, making lost items easier to find. For those who often misplace their essentials, investing in a tracker can offer peace of mind.

Though they require an initial investment, the convenience they offer is invaluable. These devices are especially useful for travelers or people who juggle many items at once. They are small enough to attach to your wallet or sunglasses without being noticeable, ensuring they do not interfere with daily use. Once set up, the tracker gives you a reliable way to find your essentials in a matter of seconds.

Develop the Habit of “Pre-Exit Checks”

Before leaving home or work, take a moment to check if you have all your essentials. This might sound simple, but it can save you from scrambling later. A quick glance to make sure your keys, wallet, and sunglasses are with you can make a huge difference. It is easy to get distracted by other things, but a quick check ensures nothing is left behind.

This pre-exit routine helps you leave the house more confidently, knowing you are not forgetting anything important. It is a small habit that can be integrated into your daily routine and will eventually become automatic. The key to success is consistency, making it a part of your regular departure process. You will find that with time, this habit prevents many unnecessary searches and inconveniences.

Keep a Spare Set of Keys

Having a spare set of keys can save you a lot of time and stress if you ever misplace your primary set. Store the spare in a secure but easily accessible location, such as with a trusted friend, relative, or in a safe hidden spot at home. This way, you are always prepared if you cannot find your original set. It also helps to keep a spare wallet with just essential cards or cash for emergencies.

While having a spare may not prevent you from losing your essentials, it provides a safety net when the inevitable happens. This habit ensures that you are never truly stranded without a solution. You will appreciate the peace of mind knowing that you have an alternative in place. Spare sets should be kept in a location that is both secure and convenient for quick access when needed.

Use a Sunglass Holder When Not in Use

Sunglasses are easy to misplace, especially if you just toss them somewhere when you are not using them. A dedicated sunglass holder is a simple but effective solution to this problem. These holders can be a case that you keep in your bag, or a hook on the wall near your entryway. Using a designated spot for your sunglasses when not in use minimizes the risk of losing them.

Additionally, using a holder prevents damage to your sunglasses, which can easily get scratched or bent when left in places like your bag or car. Keeping them in one place also reduces the likelihood of leaving them behind when you head out. This habit preserves the longevity of your sunglasses and keeps them in one place, making it easier to grab and go.

Pair Your Sunglasses with Your Keys or Wallet

One simple way to reduce the chances of losing your keys, wallet, or sunglasses is by pairing them together. Whether you keep your sunglasses in the same pocket as your wallet or attach your keys to your sunglasses case, keeping these items together makes them easier to find. It is an easy way to ensure that when you grab one item, you have all your essentials in hand.

This habit is especially useful when you are in a hurry. Instead of searching for multiple items separately, you only need to check one spot. Pairing them together makes you more efficient and reduces the chances of leaving one behind. As a result, you are more likely to keep all your essentials with you, no matter where you go.

Set Reminders on Your Phone

In today’s digital age, using your phone as a tool to keep track of your essentials is an excellent habit. Set daily reminders to check if you have your keys, wallet, and sunglasses before leaving home or work. These reminders can be set to go off at specific times, such as when you are leaving the house or your car. A simple notification can prompt you to ensure you have everything you need.

This habit works especially well if you are often in a rush or forgetful. The phone is always with you, making it easy to incorporate into your routine. Setting alerts prevents you from having to rely solely on memory and gives you a backup check to avoid forgetting anything. It is a simple solution that makes your daily routine a little easier and more organized.

Organize Your Bag for Easy Access

If you carry a bag, take the time to organize it so that your keys, wallet, and sunglasses are easy to access. Using compartments or pouches ensures that these essential items do not get lost in the bottom of your bag. Keeping these items separate from other things like makeup or receipts reduces the clutter and helps you locate them quickly when needed.

Having a well-organized bag not only makes it easier to find your essentials but also helps you avoid losing them in the first place. A bit of thought into organization goes a long way, making your day smoother and less stressful. You will appreciate the ease of access when you are out and about. Plus, this habit keeps your bag in better shape by preventing items from getting damaged or tangled.

Attach a Hook or Tray Near the Door

Having a hook or tray by your door offers a practical place to keep your keys, wallet, and sunglasses when you enter the house. This habit prevents you from tossing your items on a table or leaving them in random spots. A hook can hold your keys, while a tray can serve as a resting place for your wallet and sunglasses. This system makes it easier to grab your essentials as you head out.

It is a small but effective solution for organizing your entryway. Having this dedicated spot right by the door also eliminates the need to search for your items when you are in a hurry. You will appreciate the efficiency and simplicity of this habit, especially during busy mornings. This habit reduces the chances of misplacing your items and keeps your home organized.

Keep Your Sunglasses in Their Case

Sunglasses are often thrown into bags or left lying around, but keeping them in their case can protect both the lenses and your memory. A case ensures your sunglasses are not only safe from scratches but also prevents you from leaving them behind. Storing them in the case when you are not using them keeps them organized and easy to find.

This habit helps prevent the frustration of damaged sunglasses or the loss of one lens. It also makes it less likely that you will forget them when you head out. Keeping them in their case adds an extra layer of protection and organization to your routine. It is a simple habit that ensures your sunglasses remain in top condition and always with you when needed.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.