Idea 5: Enforce the Clear-Counter Rule
This one costs nothing and changes everything: keep counters at least 70% clear. Every appliance, mail pile, and random bottle visually shrinks the room. Pick one “landing zone” (a tray by the stove, say) and relocate everything else into cabinets. What stays out should earn its place — a wooden cutting board, a small plant, the coffee maker you actually use daily. The first week feels strange; by week two, your kitchen will feel twice as big and you’ll wonder why you waited. Take a “before” photo for motivation.
→ Next up: Idea 6 is waiting for you!
