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In my work as a professional organizer, there are many occasions in which my former career as a psychologist comes in quite handy. For example, a new client that I worked with for the first time this week expressed extreme frustration regarding the clutter that her spouse creates in their home.  She’s not alone.

I routinely come across situations where there is an inconsistency across spouses/partners with regard to the value they place on living in an organized home. I offer these words of wisdom to couples who find themselves in this situation:

Seek Counseling

If you and your partner have been dealing unsuccessfully with this particular point of contention in your relationship for an extended period of time, you will likely benefit from professional counseling to help open the lines of communication. It’s important to effectively communicate to your partner:

• how you think the household disorganization is negatively impacting you/your household/your family
• how having a more organized home can benefit everyone
• what your specific expectations are for each area of the home

Hire a Pro

Since organizing is a teachable skill, it may be worth the investment to hire a professional organizer to assist your partner in learning new organizing skills (if s/he is open to it).  The organizer can triage the most problematic areas in your home, declutter, create systems, and provide instruction on how to maintain an organized state for those particular areas. You can find an organizer who works in your geographical area by searching the National Association of Professional Organizers’ online directory.

Learn to Compromise

As in any area of disagreement, the art of compromise should never be underestimated. Perhaps you can come to an agreement that the common or “public” areas need to be kept uncluttered and organized, and you’ll learn to accept disorganized bedrooms, basement, and closets.

Another way to compromise might be to reach an agreement that you will take on the role of resident “cleaner/organizer”, if your partner prepares all the meals and handles all the laundry. This way, you can each play on your strengths and preferences to work as a team in order to maintain the household in a way that is acceptable to everyone.

Designate a “Clutter-Free” Zone

If all else fails, designate a particular room or portion of one that can serve as your haven from the rest of the cluttered house.  Ask other family members to refrain from using the space (unless they are able to maintain its clutter-free status).

Do you and your partner experience “Clutter Clashes”?  If so, I invite you to comment on how you have successfully navigated through the conflict in your household so that others who struggle with this issue can learn from your experience!

Want to learn more about Natalie Gallagher or Refined Rooms?  Visit www.RefinedRoomsLLC.com or connect via: Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | LinkedIn