De-Clutter and Organize Your Life: It is Easier than You Think
Welcome to the inaugural edition of HERLIFE Magazine’s new Organizer’s Blog! I am so excited to join the team and to be able to share my tips and ideas on home organization with all of our readers. My goal is to create a section you can’t wait to read every time you pick up this magazine. I want to motivate you to transform your home into a place that helps you achieve any goal you set for yourself and that is a peaceful escape from this crazy world.
Americans are buying more “stuff” than at any time in the history of the human race. Psychiatrist Peter Whybrow links our “manic consumerism” to serious consequences, from bankruptcy and credit card debt to physiological and psychological stress. If your space is cluttered, your energy is depleted. You feel heavy, ashamed, hopeless and anxious. So you opt to feel better through retail therapy (“Let’s pour another glass of wine and find some online bargains!”). Now your home is more cluttered, your bank balance is dwindling, your family may be frustrated with you, and the vicious cycle continues.
But there is hope! Organizing your home and your life takes commitment, time and energy. But where and how do you start? With guidance from a professional organizer, and this is where I come in!
Think of de-cluttering and organizing your space as a tool to help you reach your ideal life. This blog will offer tips for specific areas of your home, suggestions for helpful organizing tools, book reviews and answers to your specific questions. Together we can create a home that becomes an energetic launch pad each morning and your soothing sanctuary at the end of the day. ■
Begin with these three steps for transforming your space:
1. Say “no” so you can say “yes” to items and activities that really bring you joy. Anything that doesn’t make you happy or fill a tangible need goes out the door. Then fill the empty space with intention.
2. Give up the guilt around gifts, inherited pieces and expensive items. You can appreciate the love or memory of the giver without holding onto an object that doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
3. Live in the here and now; your home should reflect your current phase of life. Do you have a new career, new marriage or find yourself newly single? Kids grown? Your home should nurture who you are now and help you achieve your purpose in life today.
Written by: Joanie Nicholas
Organizing Coach Joanie Nicholas, owner of All Things Organized, is not an ordinary organizer. She approaches your home from a soulful place. For over 20 years, Joanie has led people across the metro area in creating lasting, positive changes to their space. Joanie brings professional guidance, enthusiasm, empathy and humor to her hands-on work with each client. Connect with Joanie at Joanie@OrganizeWithJoanie.com, or by phone at 913-390-3432. For regular tips and inspiration for your home projects, follow All Things Organized on Facebook and @ATOJoanie on Twitter.
