Do you always seem to have a list of organizing projects on your “To Do” list, but just can’t seem to get them done? Maybe you don’t know where to start. Maybe you’re feeling overwhelmed. Maybe your projects keep getting put on the back burner because you have too many other demands on your schedule. It may be that you need to conduct a little product research before you can move forward.
Maybe it’s time to get help!
If you’re feeling stuck, I invite you to consider these options for getting the assistance that you need in order to organize that home office, declutter that closet, or sort those boxes in the garage.
1. Books
Conduct a basic Google search, and you’ll be surprised at the array of available organizing books. There are books designed to walk you through the basic process of organizing, as well as books that address specific aspects of organizing (e.g., various rooms, paper, time management, etc.) Still others provide an education on the psychology behind organizing (e.g., causes of clutter, habit formation, etc.).
I’ve created a list of what I consider to be the “Best of the Best” organizing books that I routinely recommend to clients . The list can be found on my website, in the Refined Rooms Amazon Store. Feel free to check it out to see if any of these books may be potentially useful to you.
2. Online Resources
The internet provides endless opportunities for organizing guidance and ideas. Of course, we all know that Pinterest is the place to learn how to “organize on a dime” and to cleverly repurpose items for your organizing project. You can also find a printable checklist for just about any type of organizing project.
Online assistance goes beyond the pretty Pinterest pins. There are several online communities designed to provide ongoing organizing support to individuals who struggle to accomplish projects independently. Among these, my favorite is the Clutter Diet {affiliate link}.
This online program provides a weekly “menu” plan of organizing projects, tutorials, expert support, and community support to assist you on your journey to organizing project completion.
3. Friends & Family
Sometimes, all you need is a set of extra hands, or a person to talk to during a sorting session to make the aversive task more palatable. Tackling a project while partnering with another person can lead to getting more done in less time while having more fun in the process.
A friend or family member can also serve as your accountability partner…someone who can “light a fire under your butt” when you need it, or provide periodic check-ins to help you celebrate progress and navigate pitfalls.
4. Professional Organizers
Maybe you’ve attempted to conquer disorganization on your own using a variety of self-help resources and have been unsuccessful. It could be that you just don’t have the time or motivation required to complete a large organizing project on your own. There are over 4,000 NAPO members who are ready to partner with you to help you achieve your organizing goals.
Check out the NAPO Professional Organizer Directory to find one in your geographical area if you desire to have a professional organizer work with you onsite. If you live in a remote area of the country and can’t find an organizer in your area, many professional organizers (including me!) provide virtual organizing services via phone/Skype/Facetime. The NAPO Virtual Chapter provides a directory of professionals who offer virtual organizing.
Take advantage of the available people and resources outlined above in order to finally cross that organizing project off of your “To Do List.” You’ll feel so glad you did!
Want to learn more about Natalie Gallagher or Refined Rooms? Visit www.RefinedRoomsLLC.com or connect via: Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | LinkedIn
