Reframing Failure: How to Turn Setbacks into Stepping Stones
Let’s be honest—who hasn’t felt like a failure at some point? Maybe not a total failure, but perhaps you fell short of a goal, abandoned a new habit, or didn’t follow through on something you committed to. It’s a heavy feeling, isn’t it? I’ve been there. In fact, I was living there recently. I hadn’t written a newsletter in over a year or blogged in even longer. It wasn’t that I was sitting around doing nothing—I was busy, but I felt irresponsible. I had fallen short in planning, executing, and moving my business forward. And when you’re feeling like a failure, your thoughts can start to reinforce that belief. For example, I’d see someone else’s newsletter and think, “They’re doing it. Why can’t you get it together?” When someone signed up for my long-dormant newsletter, I’d beat myself up for having nothing to offer them. Even my social media went silent. I wondered, “Who would hire a business that’s not communicating?” Getting Back on the Horse Here’s the truth: it’s okay to feel stuck sometimes. Life isn’t about doing everything perfectly. In fact, when did perfection become the goal? Beating ourselves up over shortcomings only piles shame onto the frustration we’re already feeling—and that’s not helpful. In the organizing world, there’s a saying: “Done is better than perfect.” Perfectionism keeps us stuck. It’s like a weight that holds us down when we try to move forward but convince ourselves that it’s “not good enough.” Recently, I’ve been focused on reframing my thought life. I’ve been working on breaking up with rejection, over-responsibility, and other unhelpful patterns. It’s not easy, and I don’t have it all figured out, but I’m on the right path. I’ve realized that even one small step forward—even if it’s not the perfect step—is still progress. Life isn’t about checking every box on a to-do list or arriving at some final destination. It’s about the journey. Sometimes that journey involves rest, waiting, or even moving sideways instead of forward. And that’s okay. Can You Relate? Maybe you’re feeling this way about your space. Is your bedroom, kitchen, junk drawer, or basement overwhelming you? Or maybe it’s your schedule, with meetings and responsibilities pulling you in every direction. If so, you’re not alone. Life has shifted for everyone over the past year, and we’re all trying to find balance. When I found myself stuck, I realized I didn’t need to overhaul my life—I just needed to make a few small changes, starting with how I spoke to myself. Small Shifts, Big Impact Here’s what I’m doing differently: For example, if I start thinking, “You’re not getting anything done today,” I say out loud, “I am getting things done.” If my pants feel tight and the thought creeps in, “You’re getting fat,” I counter it with, “I made a great choice by eating that salad on Tuesday. That’s good for my health!” Even if the positive statement doesn’t feel true yet, saying it helps create its truth. You Can Do It I’m not here to give you five steps to climb out of a rut. My advice is simpler: just do one thing. Start by tuning in to your negative self-talk and speaking the opposite. When you catch yourself thinking or saying something negative, stop and reframe it into a positive. Don’t worry if the positive statement feels far from reality right now. You’re laying the foundation for change, and that’s how it starts. Making Adjustments If something isn’t working over time, it might be time for a change. That’s okay, too. We always have choices. For example, I realized my newsletter wasn’t serving me or my audience, so I decided to let it go. Instead, I’m focusing on blogging and alerting readers when new posts go live. If this doesn’t work, I’ll adjust again. It’s all part of the process. Reframing Success So, am I failing? No. Let’s reframe: I’m learning and growing every day. I’m exactly where I need to be. I’m not doing this perfectly, but I’m showing up, taking small steps, and seeing positive results. And you can, too. Start small. Speak life into your situation. Celebrate the wins, no matter how tiny. You’ve got this. Thanks for reading—I’m rooting for you!
The Weight of Change: Why It Feels Overwhelming
Embracing Change: Overcoming Stress and Finding Balance Through Organization Change is inevitable. Seasons shift, schedules evolve, and life introduces challenges and surprises—some welcome, others not. Whether it’s the arrival of fall or a major life event like job loss, a new baby, divorce, or even the death of a loved one, change brings with it a whirlwind of emotions. Anxiety, stress, and even grief can weigh us down, leaving us disoriented and overwhelmed. But here’s the truth: you can overcome the chaos of change. With intention and organization, you can navigate transitions, lighten your load, and move forward with clarity and confidence. The Weight of Change: Why It Feels Overwhelming Imagine life as a river, and you’re floating downstream in your own personal tube. Attached to you is a vest covered in carabiners, each holding a “clip” that represents something in your life—jobs, relationships, belongings, feelings, and responsibilities. As life progresses, clips get added: a new job, a promotion, a child starting soccer, or even joyful additions like buying a house or a jet ski. But without consciously removing clips that no longer serve you, the vest becomes unbearably heavy. Over time, the weight of these clips—good or bad—can pull you under, making it hard to stay afloat, let alone thrive. This is where intentionality and organization come in. To keep moving down life’s river and make room for the opportunities ahead, you must learn to unclip what’s weighing you down. How to Lighten the Load The key to managing change is knowing what to keep, what to release, and what to set aside for later. Here are actionable strategies to overcome stress and thrive during transitions: The River of Life: Keep Floating Toward Your Future Here’s the thing: life doesn’t wait upstream. The good things—the opportunities, growth, and joy—are waiting for you downstream. But to reach them, you need to keep moving. Imagine a future where your vest is lighter, your mind clearer, and your heart more open to new experiences. By removing the weight of unnecessary clips and creating space for what truly matters, you position yourself to thrive through life’s changes. Take the First Step Toward a Lighter Life Today is the day to take charge of your river. Change doesn’t have to overwhelm you. With focus, intention, and the courage to unclip what no longer serves you, you can overcome anxiety and stress, navigate transitions, and create space for the life you deserve. Start today—lighten your vest and keep floating toward the amazing future that’s waiting for you. You do have some control over how you experience the change. Our experience is 99% perception and 1% reality. Remember, even the hardest changes can bring new life and opportunities. Make sure you take off those clips to keep floating down the river to find them.
Beyond “Sparking Joy”: Embracing Intentional Living and Organization
Beyond “Sparking Joy”: Embracing Intentional Living and Organization In today’s world, clutter is no stranger to most of us. Whether it’s the overflowing closet, the junk drawer that defies organization, or the emotional weight of “stuff,” the need to simplify has never been more apparent. With the rise of Marie Kondo’s “spark joy” philosophy, the art of decluttering has taken center stage, inspiring millions to reevaluate their belongings and their lives. But is this method the only path to a more peaceful, organized home? Let’s explore where the KonMari method shines and where it diverges from other organizing philosophies, such as my own at [Your Business Name]. The Appeal of the KonMari Method Marie Kondo’s Netflix series, Tidying Up, and her books have ignited a cultural shift in how we view our possessions. Here’s what I admire about her approach: Where Our Methods Diverge While I respect and appreciate the KonMari method, my approach as a Certified Professional Organizer® (CPO®) has evolved to address additional challenges clients face. Here are a few key differences: Questions to Consider As an organizer, I’ve often pondered aspects of the KonMari method. Here are some questions worth exploring: These considerations often arise during my work with clients, where individual needs and lifestyles vary widely. Where We Align: The Bigger Picture At its core, the KonMari method and my own share a common goal: empowering individuals to create spaces that support their best lives. Both approaches highlight the importance of being intentional with what we own, recognizing that our belongings influence our time, energy, and peace of mind. One of the most impactful lessons from this movement is the awareness it’s fostering. More people are now questioning not just what they own, but why they own it. They’re reconsidering shopping habits, resisting impulse purchases, and valuing quality over quantity. A Call to Intentional Living The truth is, clutter is not just about “stuff.” It’s about how we engage with the world—our time, our energy, and our emotional well-being. Whether you embrace the KonMari method, another philosophy, or your own unique system, the goal is the same: to live a life of purpose, clarity, and joy. If you’re ready to take the first step toward an organized, stress-free life, start small. Begin with one drawer, one shelf, or one category. Remember: progress is progress, no matter how small. So, does your space “spark joy”? Or perhaps the better question is: Does it reflect the life you want to live? Let’s work together to make that vision a reality.
The Big Move: A Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering and Transitioning with Ease
Low interest rates and the desire for a fresh start have inspired many to make this summer their time to move. For those who have lived in the same home for years, the challenge is clear: decades of accumulated belongings to sort through. If there’s one thing I’ve learned from homeownership, it’s this: we hold on to items we don’t need simply because we have the space to store them. Why? Because making decisions about our belongings—especially letting go—can feel daunting. Here are some common fears that keep us stuck: These fears often lead to overwhelm, avoidance, and, ultimately, a lot of unnecessary baggage—both physical and emotional. Few life events provide as natural an opportunity to purge and simplify as a move. Whether you’re downsizing or just seeking a fresh start, tackling the process methodically can make all the difference. Steps to Prepare for a Smooth Transition Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right mindset and preparation, you can reduce stress and ensure a smoother process. Here’s how: 1. Find a Realtor You Trust A knowledgeable and reliable realtor can be your guiding light during this process. They offer expertise, connections to resources, and insights into what buyers look for. From movers and handymen to donation centers, their network can save you time and energy. 2. Stage Your Home for Success Your home may feel perfect to you, but buyers will see it differently. Staging helps create a neutral, inviting space that appeals to a broader audience. Think of it as presenting your home in its best light, rather than the cozy comfort you’ve grown accustomed to. 3. Create a Comprehensive Plan Moving isn’t just about packing boxes. It involves managing financing, paperwork, decluttering, repairs, and logistics. Outline all tasks and their timelines, making sure to identify dependencies. For example, you can’t donate items until you’ve sorted and packed them. 4. Declutter with Intention Most of us accumulate far more than we need, and moving provides the perfect opportunity to lighten the load. Choose a decluttering method that works for you: Either way, dedicate time to assessing every space—even hidden areas like closets and attics. This process saves time and money by ensuring you only move what truly matters. 5. Start Packing with the Least-Used Items Begin with seasonal decorations, spare bedrooms, or items in storage. This early progress builds momentum and allows you to focus on daily-use items closer to the move. 6. Label Everything Clearly Each box should include the name of the room it’s destined for and a note if it contains fragile items. Clear labeling ensures smoother unpacking and reduces the risk of broken belongings. 7. Ask for Help Don’t try to do it all alone. Assess how much your time and sanity are worth. Hiring professionals like organizers, movers, or handymen can alleviate stress and free you up to focus on other tasks. 8. Keep Perspective Moving can be chaotic, but most challenges can be resolved with patience. Remember, the little things that go wrong are just that—little things. Maintaining a positive attitude and flexibility can make all the difference. The Power of a Fresh Start Moving is more than a logistical challenge—it’s an opportunity to reset. It’s a chance to let go of items that no longer serve you and embrace a simpler, more intentional lifestyle. By tackling the process with a plan, clear priorities, and the right support, you’ll find that moving isn’t just about changing your address; it’s about creating a space that supports the life you want to live. So, don’t box up that old volleyball set you haven’t touched in years. Let go, lighten up, and look forward to the new chapter ahead.
What EXACTLY does a Professional Organizer do?
The Organizing industry is truly a hidden gem. I couldn’t believe I didn’t know the industry existed until a couple years ago. Of course, I was actively avoiding places like The Container Store. I knew if I set foot in there it would be all over. Poverty would follow. I knew I would love it and I’d go broke in 6 months. Truly. I had never been in the store until after I decided to go into this profession. And yes, I love it. In the crazy world we live in, there are endless ways to help our clients. Most folks are at full, or over, capacity trying to keep all the plates spinning with their day-to-day lives. How can they keep up? How can they learn all the processes and tricks to manage their lives more efficiently and reduce their stress? How do they know how to declutter a closet efficiently and thoroughly? Enter the organizing profession. You may have wondered how I ended up in this industry. The Business Analyst role did not entirely fit me. The analytical aspect as well as creating order was suitable. Mostly I was motivated with activities such as improving processes, streamlining and documenting procedures, and organizing online data. Then I had a conversation with a friend. We were talking about projects around the house and I was saying that I was doing some organizing and said something to the effect of, “I wish I could do this for a living! ” She said, “You can. That profession exists.” WHAT??!!!! (mind blown) And life has never been the same. During my research, I discovered there are several different national and international organizations that exist to support this industry. Who knew? One of their primary missions of these organizations is to get the word out that this industry exists and how our expertise changes lives. My research initially landed me at the NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers) website. Here, as you can imagine, I relished every word and thought I discovered the “mother ship” for my people. Believe it or not, this is worldwide phenomenon. Other countries have national organizations as well like Canada, the UK – even if they spell it “organise”, and of course Japan (as many of us are familiar with Marie Kondo and her book about tidying – which really just means organizing.) There is an organization that supports organizers who are helping clients that are challenged with chronic disorganization. There is even an organization that seeks to unite the various national organizations worldwide called the International Federation of Professional Organizing Associations (IFPOA). Who knew, right? When I decided to become a Professional Organizer, I really didn’t understand the depth of the industry I was jumping into. My decision was based on my business-world skills, my natural bent (thanks Mom & Dad!), and life experiences of figuring stuff out while I managed my life and household. The industry thrilled me but I had to learn exactly what all is involved in helping others with their challenges. I found that there is A LOT more to this career than that meets the eye. The reach of our industry knows no bounds. It reminds me of physicians and how they have many specialties. Many organizers are generalists, but most also have specialties as well: hoarding, closet installs, garages, moves, residential, photos, ADHD/OCD, transition, time management, kitchens, eco-friendly, new moms….the list goes on and on. It’s funny that when you have an aptitude for something, you originally think that everyone must think like you do. I distinctly remember an experience of organizing with someone before I “turned pro”. I was thoroughly enjoying myself feeling pumped as I was getting more organized. I passed them in the hall and said, “Isn’t this fun?” to which they snarled, “No, it’s torture!” What? You may be thinking the same thing as you’re reading this. I get it. You don’t think organizing is fun. You hate it and find any excuse to do something different. We are all created differently. Thank goodness! When I have to do things involving say money, I look for all the distractions I can find. Squirrel! What Do Organizers Do?Some people think Organizers just put things away –like somebody’s mom (sorry I just had to). Others think we are administrative assistants, some think we plan events. The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines the word organize as “to arrange or order things so that they can be found or used easily and quickly : to put things into a particular arrangement or order”. That just barely touches on the industry. Currently, there are two main types of Organizers: Residential & Business. Business organizing focuses on positively impacting businesses. Taking on goals such as gaining efficiencies, streamlining workflow, improving paper and electronic files, and coaching are typical offerings. Residential focuses on the home. For the purposes of this blog, we’re focusing on residential organizing. I recently read an article about getting organized that basically told people the key is, “Things need to go where they need to go.” Well yes, but this doesn’t address the challenge many have in setting up an effective system of where things go. It doesn’t address busy lifestyles, multiple people in the same space, special needs, feelings of being overwhelmed or stuck. I could go on and on. I was really saddened by this person’s lack of understanding and compassion for the challenges of getting organized and staying organized. It reminds me of my bitmoji (app where the avatar looks like you). This brings up a basic philosophy in this industry: No judgment. Compassion and understanding are the tenants on which our industry is built. Most Organizers number one goal is to help. Does a personal trainer look down on someone 20 lbs overweight who wants to get healthier? Of course not or you wouldn’t hire them. Organizing is the same way. We exist to bring about desired change, to help our clients achieve their goals, to watch the excitement as their world expands and the fog lifts.
Declutter Dilemmas: How to Finally Let Go of the Things Holding You Back
As a professional organizer, I visit many homes. My clients do not fit any certain profile – singles, marrieds, ages ranging from 25 to 80, kids, no kids, etc. I’ve noticed with the variety of clients that I have, there are some categories of belongings that I see repeatedly wreaking havoc on my client’s spaces because they don’t know how to get rid of them. Towards that end I wanted to provide some suggestions to become a minimalist – haha just kidding – to get rid of those nagging unwanted household items. Here’s my recommendation. Do what is easiest for you to do. Idealism and perfectionism keep us stuck. Choose realistic instead of idealistic. Choose progress over perfect. Top 6 Tricky Items To Get Rid Of: 1. Paint 2. Medications (including sharps) 3. Non-donatable clothing 4. Electronics 5. Books 6. Baby Items PAINT MEDICATIONS Pills/capsules Needles NON-DONATABLE CLOTHING (stained, ripped, or overly worn) ELECTRONICS BOOKS/BIBLES BABY ITEMS DISCLAIMER: If you live outside of the twin cities, my apologies as these are local resources. These are some suggestions, but by no means an exhaustive list. This is for household use only, not businesses. Policies change so you may want to call the location before you make a run. Hence this information is as of January 2018 and not necessarily until the end of time. 🙂
Unlocking the Potential of ADHD: Overcoming Challenges with Organization
Did you know that approximately 11% of children aged 4-17 (6.4 million) have been diagnosed with ADHD, with rates in young children rising by over 50% in just a few years? (Source: CDC) ADHD is not just prevalent—it’s growing. If you’re affected by ADHD, either personally or through someone you know, you understand how deeply it can impact life: time management, productivity, home organization, work, and relationships. The ADHD Brain and Organizational Challenges Managing ADHD can feel overwhelming, but understanding the unique ways it affects the brain is the first step to success. Key challenges include: Proven Organizational Tips for Success Clearing the Clutter: Decision-Making Strategies ADHD often complicates decisions about what to keep or toss. Simplify the process with targeted questions: These prompts help frame decisions in a way that’s less overwhelming and more actionable. The Strengths of ADHD ADHD isn’t all about challenges. People with ADHD bring incredible strengths to the table: What Do I Do? Whether you have ADHD or support someone who does, the key to thriving lies in embracing the challenges while unlocking the potential. With the right strategies and systems in place, organization becomes not only possible but empowering. Start small, stay consistent, and remember—progress is the goal, not perfection. Take the first step today and discover how organization can transform your life!
Spring Into Action: Organize Your Closet and Declutter Your Life
As the weather warms and the world comes alive, many of us feel inspired and energized to tackle long-overdue projects around the house. Spring, with its promise of renewal, is the perfect time to refresh your home—and your mindset. While everyone else is focused on deep cleaning, I want to encourage you to organize first. Why? Because once you’re organized, cleaning becomes easier. You’ll have less stuff to clean around, and you’ll eliminate unnecessary clutter that can weigh you down. In fact, the National Soap & Detergent Association found that getting rid of clutter could eliminate 40% of housework in the average home. Sign me up! Here’s a guide to help you transform your closet and declutter your home this spring. Why Seasonal Closet Swapping Matters Living in a place with four distinct seasons, like Minnesota, comes with unique challenges. With drastically different wardrobes for summer and winter, our closets can easily become overcrowded. No matter how large your closet is, keeping only the clothes you love and wear now makes life easier. Swapping out seasonal clothes helps you: Practical Benefits of Seasonal Swapping Closet Organization Tips A Fresh Start Spring is a time of growth, hope, and renewal. By decluttering and organizing your space, you’ll create room for the things that truly matter in your life. When your home feels lighter and more manageable, you’ll feel energized and ready to tackle other challenges. Ready. Set. Go! Let’s embrace the season of renewal and make space for the life we want to live.
ONE Secret to Accomplishing New Year’s Resolutions
Start the New Year Organized and Ready to Succeed The New Year is a time of excitement and fresh beginnings. With it comes the promise of hope, new adventures, and often, the tradition of setting resolutions. But let’s be honest: how often do those resolutions stick? Many of us declare goals without a plan, only to forget them weeks later. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Why Resolutions Fail Most New Year’s resolutions fail because they lack clarity, strategy, and follow-through. Research shows people often set vague goals like “enjoy life” or “save money” without actionable steps. No plan means no progress, which leads to frustration and giving up altogether. A Key to Success: Organization To achieve your goals, the foundation is simple: get organized. Here’s why organization supports the most common resolutions: The Benefits of Being Organized Getting organized isn’t just about neatness; it transforms your life. Benefits include: The Takeaway If you want to make this year different, start with a solid foundation: organization. It’s the key to turning resolutions into realities. When you’re organized, you’re in control, and achieving your goals becomes attainable and rewarding. So, as you step into the New Year, set yourself up for success. Make organization your first resolution—and watch how everything else falls into place. You’ve got this!
It’s Back-to-School Season: How to Stay Organized and Stress-Free
It’s Back-to-School Season: How to Stay Organized and Stress-Free It’s that time of year again—stores are decked out with flashy “Back to School” signs, and the aisles are packed with freshly minted school supplies. Schools are sending paperwork and forms for the upcoming year, and even a few leaves are starting to change color amidst the warm summer days. For many parents, this is a bittersweet time. You’ve enjoyed the slower pace and more time with your children, but the school bells are calling, and it’s time to gear up for a new season of learning and activities. Feeling overwhelmed? Take a deep breath. Now repeat after me: “I can get everything done at a reasonable pace, and we’ll have the best fall ever!” (Feel free to rinse and repeat as often as needed to stay calm.) Here are six guidelines to decrease your stress levels and help you stay organized this back-to-school season: 1. Focus on the Positive It all starts with your mindset. The transition to the school season will be smoother and more enjoyable if you set a positive tone. Kids love summer—it reminds us all of carefree childhood days, barbecues with neighbors, trips to the beach, and endless outdoor fun. But as summer fades, it’s time to focus on the exciting things fall brings. A mother’s mood often sets the tone for the household. Start talking about the fun activities ahead: brightly colored trees, trips to the apple orchard, or late-night bonfires. Highlight what makes fall special and use this optimism to guide your family through the transition. A positive mindset not only boosts morale but helps everyone embrace the change with enthusiasm. 2. Dominate Your Calendar There’s no one “right” way to manage your schedule—whether you prefer digital tools or a paper planner, find a system that works for you and stick with it. Take the time to write down every activity on your family’s calendar. Share this schedule with everyone in your household and, if possible, color-code activities for each family member. Start a list of carpool contacts and look ahead for potential conflicts. Planning ahead will save you the stress of last-minute surprises, like scrambling for a new pair of pants for tomorrow’s choir concert when you already have a packed evening. 3. Coordinate Dependencies Once your calendar is under control, you can focus on what needs to be done to support those activities. For example, if your daughter starts soccer in two weeks, check if her cleats still fit or need replacing. If two kids have games on the same night, start arranging rides now. By staying ahead of these logistical challenges, you’ll minimize stress and make activities more enjoyable for everyone. 4. Purchase School Supplies Early School supply lists often arrive early, but you can usually find them online even before that. Don’t wait until the last minute—shop early to avoid the frustration of sold-out items. Reflect on your past experiences. If shopping as a family was fun, do it again. If it was chaotic, consider taking one child at a time and turning it into a special “date” night. Adding a treat at the end can make the experience enjoyable and memorable. 5. Gently Adjust Sleep Schedules Summer often means late nights and lazy mornings, but fall’s structured routine will require an earlier start. Avoid the shock of a sudden change by gradually adjusting bedtimes and wake-up times in the weeks leading up to school. Shift schedules by 15 minutes each day to help your kids’ internal clocks adjust smoothly. This gradual approach makes the transition easier and ensures everyone feels well-rested for the first day. 6. Add Cushion and Grace to Your Schedule As much as possible, build flexibility into your schedule. Don’t overcommit your time or finances until you’re sure you can manage them. It takes time for families to adjust to the rhythm of a new school year. Be patient with yourself and your loved ones. After a few weeks, you’ll likely find your groove, with the sweet memories of summer in your rearview mirror. With a bit of planning, focus, and organization, you can ensure that your transition into the school year and fall activities is a smashing success. Here’s to a stress-free and exciting back-to-school season!