operation organization

2013-04-10T20:42:00.000-05:00

More Than One Way to Organized :: Laundry

2013-04-10T20:40:00.003-05:00

This is the first in a series of articles chronicling the multiple ways one can keep organized with routine home maintenance needs.

In the quest to get routine home management tasks organized, it can be quite tempting to try to adhere to a system or routine that seems to work well for someone else. However, you must take care to intentionally select a path that is right for you in the season of life you are currently in. Additionally, be willing to try a new path of maintaining order if you sense your family lifestyle is shifting or possibly taking on a brand new shape.

There are often MANY options that will lead you to a desired result.

Consider the common household chore of Laundry. It's important to remember that this task is never truly 'done', but choosing one of many possible routines will give you peace of mind that the laundry monster is at least under control. There are several possible variations of each, but these suggestions will get you started:

1. Assign a 'Laundry Day':

Focus on the laundry task only once a week on a regular recurring day.
Complete all washing needs (sorting/washing/folding/putting away from start to finish).

Use a timer to help stay on task.
Assign a central area for folding like a bed or table.

Possible Observations:

You might feel overwhelmed by the thought of doing doing laundry ALL day.

HOWEVER,

You'll have the freedom to completely ignore the laundry the rest of the week with the peace and assurance you have a plan in place to keep it under control.

You might feel trapped by the thought of spending the whole day at the house surrounded by laundry.

HOWEVER,

Maybe you can plan to do laundry on a day when you'd rather be home anyway (perhaps on a Monday after a long/busy weekend?) OR, maybe you're an introvert who doesn't mind having long stretches of time at home. You can indulge in DVR recordings, podcasts, audio books, or catch up on phone calls while you fold.

2. Assign a 'Type' of Laundry to individual days of the week:

Possible Options:

Bed Linens and towels on one day.
Light colors and delicate items on one day, dark colors and denim on another.
All adult clothes on one day, all kids clothes on another.
Split laundry days per room assignments (girls who share a room on one day, boys who share a room on another, master clothing on another).
For large families, assign a 'laundry day' to each family member.

Benefits:
Time spent sorting/folding/ prepping for transfer to dedicated location will be lessened overall.

3. Strive to be a 'Daily Do-er' of Laundry related tasks:
(Do something with your laundry every day)

Possible Options:

Wash/Dry/Fold/Put away ONE (or more, if needed) load a day.
Wash/Dry one load every other day (put away on the odd days).
Have a general 'awareness' of the state of the laundry situation each and every day and just do at least one 'next step' per day. (this is my current method in our current season of life).

4. Delegate the Laundry Task:

Negotiate with another family member to take it off your plate (maybe a sports savvy family member that would love an excuse to kick back in front of the big game with less guilt? wink, wink!)
Hire out laundry service.

General Tips

Decide where and how many receiving baskets you need/want depending on your family size and routine of choice. For example, with the 'Laundry Day' option, you may favor one central laundry station where colors / types of laundry are sorted throughout the week to streamline your various wash cycles, etc. With the 'Type of Laundry' per assigned day(s) through the week, one basket per room may suffice.

Getting bogged down by sorting colors? Look for color fast detergents to enable you to do mixed loads.

Always losing little tiny socks? Try washing all of them in a mesh lingerie bag!

Tired of matching oodles of family socks? Get one style and stick with it - makes matching easy just eye balling for possible variations of size.

Time Saving tip: Try sorting/folding clothes right out of the dryer and into individual baskets for each family member. That way, you will not needlessly handle clothing multiple times. You can simply haul baskets to each room and let the family members take it from there!

Having one of these plans in place will result in less stress. When you start to see laundry piling up, you can relax in the knowledge you've got a system in place to keep on top of it.

Which routine seems best for YOU in your current season of life?

Any other tips/tricks to share?

Please add your thoughts in the comments.

There's Not Just 'ONE WAY' to Get Organized

2013-04-04T22:42:00.000-05:00

If you're currently struggling in the pursuit of an organized home and life, chances are you're hoping to find the 'perfect' or 'best' way to solve your individual challenges.

Thing is, there are often MANY options that will lead you to a desired result of order and peace.

As I mentioned in a previous article, The Solution to Staying Organized, it can be quite tempting to try to adhere to a system or routine that seems to work well for someone else. However, you must take care to intentionally select a path that is right for you in the season of life you are currently in. Additionally, be willing to try a new path of maintaining order if you sense your family lifestyle is shifting or possibly taking on a brand new shape.

Consider what is going on in your life:
Determine/Define your personal priorities to guide you.
What are your own personal family / work obligations to balance around?
What are some of your personal special interests? (The time with which you dedicate to those interests matter in determining what system/routine will work best for you)
Identify your natural gifts & talents as well as potential stumbling blocks or obstacles.

In the next few weeks, I'll be highlighting multiple options you can consider when attempting to keep on top of the following basic home maintenance needs:

Laundry

Cleaning & Clutter Control

Meal Planning

What are you looking forward to tips on most?

What are your biggest challenges when it comes to basic home maintenance?

The Solution to STAYING Organized

2013-01-08T10:45:00.000-06:00

There is an endless supply of tips, suggestions, and visual inspiration toward getting organized. I've even shared what I view to be 7 Habits of Highly Organized People.
However, often people find that the *getting organized* is simply not a guarantee that you'll STAY organized.

The Secret Equation?

Identify & set up specific SYSTEMS (a plan/process) to maintain the order that you have created.

Find a system that works for Y-O-U.

There's not one way to be organized. What works for your friend, neighbor, co-worker, mother or mother-in-law to stay on top of the chaos of life in the form of paper, clutter, laundry, cleaning etc. may not work for you. And, that is OKAY.

Further, what works for you in one particular season of life, may no longer suit you when you find yourself transitioning into another. Accept and embrace who you are as an individual and be willing to re-evaluate your systems over time.

via

Build a ROUTINE to aid in maintaining the SYSTEM

Whether you know it or not, you probably already have several 'routines' that happen throughout your days and weeks.

A routine is merely a sequence of actions regularly followed.

I'm willing to bet you have some sort of routine you generally follow in the morning as well as in the evening.

Do you eat and sleep at regular intervals?

Most times, these routines simply develop by accident or by reflex of what is happening around you. May I suggest you put some intention into these routines? Chose a time of day that you already have some sort of routine happening (like the morning or evening or leading up to/following a meal) to plan to address a few routine tasks toward maintaining the systems you've put into place to influence a more organized lifestyle.

HABITS of Organization will then begin to develop

as a by-product of your Systems & Routines!

Do you need some assistance identifying and developing strategic SYSTEMS to suit your individual lifestyle?

Could you use some guidance creating ROUTINES to maintain an organized state of living?

I can help you in your goals of becoming that Highly Organized Person!
Contact me today!

Also, be sure to check out the FREE printable checklists that I have created that are sure to aid in following & maintaining your routines.

Choose from 13 Printable Calendars to Keep You Organized in 2013!

2012-12-31T12:10:00.000-06:00

Check out this amazing collection of printable calendars to keep you organized in 2013!

Simply click on the 'source' link below each image to be transported to the creators website and follow the individual printing directions.

Cheers to a Happy & Organized NEW YEAR!!

Source: botanicalpaperworks.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: thetomkatstudio.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: mycomputerismycanvas.blogspot.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: 733blog.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: homeschooling.about.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: thehouseholdplanner.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: filthymuggle.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: thetwineryblog.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: hellocuteness.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: awell-featherednest.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: imom.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: bloominghomestead.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: creativemamma.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Source: misstiina.com via Heidi Leonard on Pinterest

Planning for a {Pre-Holiday} Toy Purge

2012-12-17T07:29:00.001-06:00

In our home, there are two times a year that I sit down with my children to discuss what toys will be moving out of the house:

Just before their Birthday (in the spring) and in the weeks leading up to our family Christmas celebrations.

Why?

Because, that is when they are sure to get MORE STUFF. Knowing that new things are coming into their life makes it easier to part with other items/toys that are either broken, missing pieces, or have just not honestly received much attention or interest in recent months for whatever reason.

Here's a peek at what my two boys selected to purge this December (2012)

Kids can actually be quite logical in this process if you provide advanced warning of the impending purge (a day or two ahead of time is usually plenty) as well as a brief explanation as to the 'why' of the purge.

What is the 'why' ?

* In our culture, it is simply a guarantee that we will always get more STUFF. Sometimes it is things we buy for ourselves, sometimes it's a gift for a special occasion or simply a hand-me-down from someone else looking to get rid of their stuff. ;)

* Our homes only have so much space to store all of our things.

* We need to choose only what is most important to us (and also only what will realistically FIT) to stay in the home.

If your kiddos (or you) are having a hard time choosing what to move out here's a few guidelines:

- Anything that is broken or missing pieces.

- Anything that children simply do not play with anymore.

- Anything you have multiples of (for example; decide a distinct limit to the amount of types or sizes of dolls, stuffed animals, mini figurines, cars / trucks / trains etc.) If you need to - provide your child a 'limiting container' to give them a visual boundary for specific items. Explain to them that this is the space they may have for a particular toy or collection of similar toys. They can pick which toys to keep, but only what will 'fit'.

This process is also a very important life skill/lesson that will serve them well into their adult life and give them a healthy perspective on dealing with 'stuff'.

Source: Uploaded by user via Lisa on Pinterest

Bonus Tips:

If your kiddos are really resistant to getting rid of anything, give them a specific number goal of things you'd like them to move out. If needed, wait until a few days after gifts have been received to decide what may not seem as important in light of the new goodies.

Also, if children know that their toys will be going to other children who may not otherwise be able to receive them (either from a shelter or re-sale shop), you may be surprised how their generosity may fuel the purging process.

Do you plan for regular toy purges in your home?

Or, does the thought of guiding your kids through this process seem over-whelming?

I can help!

Clutter Free Gift Idea for the Scrapbooker {and a Give-Away!}

2012-12-05T22:11:00.000-06:00

I have long enjoyed the hobby of capturing memories and moments in time through photographaphy.

I was first introduced to the art of scrapbooking my junior year of high school. A friend invited me to a party where supplies were being sold and the process of creating beautiful and unique hand-made memory books to highlight photos was presented. My love of photos combined with the outlet for personal creative artistry hooked me to the hobby instantly!

I continued the hobby through my early years of marriage and was always on the lookout where I could set up shop to create and find space to store my supplies wherever we moved during the many transitions in our life.

However, once my children began getting older, it became increasingly difficult to pursue.

I never had quite enough time to complete very much unless I was away from home in a retreat atmosphere (which was only a few times a year), and with more people in the house, I didn't have the luxury of a dedicated room in which to leave supplies out in-between sessions. It began to feel like too much effort to continually pull all the supplies and tools out, only to put it all away over and over again. There was also the factor of limited time as well. I not only had to find the time to have photos printed but also time to travel to pick them up in addition to the time it took to get set up and of course time to actually create.

If you are or have been a mother of small children you know just how precious 'free' time is, and I became increasingly dis-interested in spending it in that way.

I still had held onto that desire to photograph and capture our lives, but the creation of albums was slowly growing few and far-between.

Fast forward a few years and I began experimenting with digital scrapbooking. With the help of a few popular websites I was able to continue in the hobby without monkeying around with all the supplies in efforts simplify the process altogether and still have a semi creatively made photobook to look back fondly on of all our cherished memories. I printed the book and was happy to have it completed, but I still felt as though I would have liked to have more of a personalized stamp on the creative process without needing a big time investment to learn a difficult program like photoshop.

Well, my wish came true in the form of MyMemories.com!

I jumped at the opportunity to test drive their digital scrapbooking software, and it was a complete breeze to navigate!

While they offer plenty of free pre-designed kits & templates for the beginning scrapbooker to utilize, there is also a huge collection of backgrounds, fonts, and graphics available for the artist at heart to mix together for a personalized look as well! New freebies are a continuously created and there is also a digital shop to browse even more fancy-schmancy options as well.

The creations that can be made through the software is not limited to just scrapbooking templates either. I'm thinking party invitations, personalized photo art, labels, printables and much more!

What I like BEST about digital scrapbooking software is that I no longer need to purchase & store physical supplies to create something I can still say that I created. It's wonderful to just open up the program, work on a project for a few minutes, and simply 'save' it for another time when my precious free time has expired.

Here's what I created in about an hours time on a Sunday morning before church:

I drew some inspiration from a holiday card I recently saw advertised on-line and wa-la! It looks nearly identical! YOU can totally do this! And there is plenty of help available if you need it as well. Take a peek at all the tutorials available via the MyMemoriesSuite YouTube channel!

MyMemories.Com wants to share their software with a friend of Operation Organization - MN!!

If you would like to enter to win the software for yourself or to give to a friend or family member simply visit www.My Memories.com. Browse around for a bit and choose your favorite digital paper pack or layout, then come back to this post and leave a comment on your sharing what you found and loved!

For extra entries, subscribe to and follow other My Memories social outlets and leave an individual comment telling about each one you joined:

blog.mymemories.com
Facebook
Twitter

Entries can be submitted through Wednesday, December 12th at 9:00 pm. Winner will be announced via email (and on the bottom of this post) Friday, December 14th. So, make sure an email address is linked to your entry identity as well.

CONGRATULATIONS to entry #2 (The Muellers) ! You've won free digital scrapbooking software from MyMemories! Please email me at operationorganizationmn@gmail.com so that I can connect you with the company to receive the code to download!

Good Luck!!

Give {or Request} the Gift of Organization...

2012-11-19T11:18:00.000-06:00

Would you or someone you know appreciate the gift of Organization?

Contact Heidi for more information on purchasing

a Gift Certificate from Operation Organization - MN!

Click here to learn what a Professional Organizers can offer you or a loved one .

An Interview with Stylist Carly Gatzlaff, owner of A La Mode Wardrobe Consulting

2012-10-25T21:19:00.000-05:00

I'm always encouraging my clients and seminar attendees to only keep what they deem to be beautiful and useful. That can certainly be difficult to determine when considering an entire wardrobe.

I'm thrilled to introduce a new friend of mine to you today that can help!

Carly Gatzlaff, owner and stylist of A La Mode Wardrobe Consulting, had some absolutely fabulous feedback on some of my burning fashion and styling questions:

{H} : I love the series you've been featuring on your blog highlighting dressing for your body type - What are some key areas (on the clothing or our body)that we should focus in on when trying to determine if a garment is a good fit on our individual body type?

{C} : First and foremost, we need to show a waist, whether we have one or even if we need to fake it. Finding garments with good structure that have seaming, definition, or a shape that defines the waist (like a faux wrap) are key to every body type.

{H} : What are top colors and styles for fall and winter this 2012 season?

{C} : In terms of color, rich jewel tones are all the rage. A dark plumy/maroon is definitely the color of the season, along with rich emerald greens, camels, royal blues, and mustard. General styles for work are definitely in the skirt/dress realm, while for casual a skinny pant with riding boots and layering tops definitely reigns supreme. A fun take on this is a shorter bootie, used in place of a riding boot, with an ankle pant or rolled straight leg denim.

http://intheircloset.com/acne-pistol-short-ankle-boots

{H} : How can we determine what is our personal best color to wear?

{C} : Most of my clients definitely have a good feel of their colors from trying things on, however, when in doubt remember two things. First, never match your skin tone and second pay attention to what you get compliments on. I often find most things clients say they get compliments on are garments that are their worst pieces (or craziest that just do not work), however with colors the compliments they receive are always right!

{H} : Who are some of your personal style icons?

{C} : Oye.....that is a tough one, and ironically one of the first questions I ask all of my clients! Blake Lively, Diane von Furstenburg, Emily Schuman of Cupcakes and Cashmere, and Miranda Kerr are a few of my favorites.

www.cupcakesandcashmere.com

{H} : How do you help clients discover their own personal style?

{C} : I start every first meeting talking with my clients for around a half hour, just figuring out their lifestyle, their loves, and what makes them tick. This is a great start, however the first thing I look at with my clients in their closets are their shoes. You can tell a LOT about a woman or man from their shoes! From there, it is all about directing them into a style and clothing that fits their personality and most importantly their day to day life!

{H} : Are the latest styles and trends for everyone?? What do you tell a client who's maybe just a bit fearful of pulling off trendy fashions?

I {Heidi} personally would like to feel more 'hip' and on-trend when it comes to fashion - but sometimes I feel like I might not be able to pull off a certain look (for example, the 'skinny jean' - I see them all over, yet every time I try a pair on, I just can't pull the purchase trigger -) How do you determine what to try and what to leave on the rack when it comes to trendy fashion statements? Can there be a healthy marriage between the trendy and the basics??

{C} : My entire business is about the marriage of classics and trends.

I am all for trying what is current, however always base appointments around what will stand the test of time. While shopping with clients, I make everyone try on things they may not be comfortable with, however that I know will be great on their body types. Some clients are more open than others, however I don't think I have ever finished an appointment where my clients were not super enthused with the new trend. (I get tons of e-mails weeks afterwards of clients loving their skinny pants...Heidi I think you need some!)

I think a lot of it comes down to being with someone you trust that is not selling you clothes, yet is giving you honest feedback. When trying something new I always encourage clients to try and incorporate just one new/scary thing into outfits. Keep the rest of the outfit simple with things that you already feel great in to get used to wearing a new trend. This is also a great way to blend classics and trends, use one trendy piece in your outfit and keep the rest classic. You will appear updated, but still refined! As for the skinny denim, everyone should have a dark wash pair that has a little gapping by the ankle (not skin tight) I have put every women from a 00 petite to a 24 in them and every body type does great. The main thing to remember is to vary your proportion, so to use skinnies with something not skin tight on the top.

{H} : What pieces should every woman have in her wardrobe and why?

{C} :

-A great flat: comfortable, classic, and uber flattering

-A great dark wash denim: No whiskering or butt spangles! Perfect for day or night

-An almond shaped toe heel or wedge: Dressing anything up in an instant and gives you a great leg line:

-A basic scoopneck white tee: No one has this, but you need it for layering!

Sounds simple.....but so many closets I am in are lacking in these must haves that are timeless, seasonless, and work great on everyone!

{H} : What are some of your favorite shops and retailers and why?

{C} : JCrew: Timeless and superb quality, Banana Republic: Fun takes on the classics, Gap: Cannot beat them for basics, Hot Mama: Great denim, Francesca's: The hidden gem for accessories

{H} : What (in your opinion) are a few of the best brands of jeans that offer the most flattering fit at an affordable cost?

{C} : Gap and Banana always have great fit for a more modest budget. Citizens and Joe's for premium denim. Denim, shoes, and handbags are the three places I think every person should invest the most their budget can take...it makes a huge difference and is worth it as they are things you use constantly!

{H} : Tell us a little about the services you offer, as well as the individual approach you take as a Wardrobe Consultant:

(Is it at all like Stacy London of TLC's, 'What Not to Wear'?? *smile*)

{C} :I grew up watching What not to wear, and while I think I am nicer than Stacy and Clinton, the process is very similar.

The two main things I do are closet analysis and personal shopping. In a closet analysis, I help my clients weed through their wardrobe, get rid of what does not work for their body type and lifestyle, and style outfits with what they already own. I then follow up by sending them a shopping list with holes I saw in their closet that when purchased, will create the wardrobe and style they were dreaming of. For shopping, every client is a little different in what they need, but I pre-shop for clients and then take them shopping. A typical trip is three hours long in which we can accomplish a full seasons wardrobe. For clients whom hate shopping, are confused about their style, don't have the time to shop, or just need to shake things up, the shopping trip is a game changer.

I cannot think of a better feeling in the world than completing a closet analysis and shopping trip with a client who is so down on style and at the end cannot stop smiling or talking about how life changing the process was. Especially for my female clients, the self confidence gained by many women is absolute bliss for me!

Carly & Clients at Twin Cities Live

Wasn't that fantastic!!?

Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom and expertise with us, Carly!
Maybe you'll get me into my own pair of skinnies yet, and I'm now dying to know what your first impression of my shoes was! :)
~H

-Carly Gatzlaff is owner and stylist with À La Mode Wardrobe Consulting. Working with both males and females in the Twin Cities, she specializes in closet analysis and personal shopping. Interested in learning more about À La Mode? Visit the website at www.alamodewc.com and make sure to like À La Mode on facebook, sign up for their newsletter, and follow the blog for ongoing fashion updates!

Overcoming Obstacles in Organizing :: Finding the Time

2012-10-19T18:39:00.000-05:00

This is the second installment of a series of articles where I'll be presenting common obstacles in getting {and staying} organized.

Do you ever find yourself wishing there were more hours in the day to dedicate toward your organizing goals?

The way we spend our time is one of the biggest indicators of what we truly value in life.
If getting organized is a value and goal you want to achieve, it must become a priority - and it will require your time.

To understand where your time goes, it is important to assess how you actually spend it.

Try a TIME AUDIT...

Make an intentional effort to observe where your time is going by recording how you spend your time in a typical week. For the next few days (or even a whole week), I encourage you to record everything you spend your time on with the help of TIME USE CHART.
(click link for example)

By recording how much time you dedicate to your activities and accomplishments during a typical day/week, you'll be able to observe your time usage (for better or worse) more objectively. You may be surprised to learn just how much (or little!) time certain activities really take day-to-day.

Once your audit is complete, ask yourself if what you're spending time on is truly aligned with your top life goals and priorities.

Is the time you are spending on____________ worth it?

Ask yourself, "Will this help me accomplish my life (or organizational) goals?"

If not, it may be time to re-evaluate how you're spending your time so that it's more reflective of what your priorities are.

Need some help?

Organizing Expert, Maria Garcia, recommends making a comprehensive list of things you are actively spending your time on. (a time audit exercise will help with that).

Once your list is complete label each as follows:

A. : Highly contributes to goals and dreams
B. : Somewhat contributes
C. : Doesn't contribute to my goals and dreams at all

In order to achieve your goals and dreams, work hard to eliminate the C's

Be especially mindful of how often you fall victim to 'weapons of mass distraction' *smile*

If you continually ask yourself,

"What's important now?",

you won't waste time on the trivial.

-Lou Holtz

Then, EVALUATE -
Take an honest look at your time audit, and work toward creating a time 'budget' by assigning pockets of time toward certain activities required for your top 5 life priorities. - Can you identify what activities and/or events are possibly a little too 'heavy' compared to the time and attention required somewhere else??

Need some help?

Consider if you could/should;

1. Moderate - can you simply lessen the time commitment you give to __________?

2. Delegate - Can someone else in the family take over the responsibility for ____________?
(could you possibly even pay someone to do_______, so you have more time for ___________?)

or

3. Eliminate - Though painful, sometimes the best choice is to simply step away from an activity or commitment (even if it is a GOOD thing) in order to re-align how your time is spent to reflect the current priorities in your life. Perhaps you will be able to return to it one day, but at least be willing to consider this option in the interest of the best balance within your family life...

While the initial process of 'getting' organized by setting up strategic systems and routines is admittedly large in the beginning, the time (and sanity!) that you'll save in the long run as a result will have a much greater return. Eventually you're sure find even MORE time and energy to spend on the things you truly enjoy!

Are you ready to find/create time for Organization in your Home, Office, or Life?

I can help!

Read Additional Posts from this series:
1. No Time Like the Present {to get started}

Overcoming Obstacles In Organizing :: No Time Like the Present

2012-09-12T14:17:00.000-05:00

This is the first in a series of posts where I'll be presenting common obstacles in getting {and staying} organized.

It's easy to trick yourself into putting off your organizational goals/tasks in favor of waiting for the 'best' or 'right' time to start.

Problem is, the dis-order and clutter that needs to be addressed/sorted will only continue to grow into a bigger problem/challenge that will promise to take even more time energy than if you faced it in the 'now'.

While you wait, it's not only the physical clutter that continues to pile up.

So will other common consequences of disorganization.

Stress & Anxiety will also continue to build due to:

Loss of time & energy looking for things you need, but can't find.

Late charges due to bills you've mis-placed, or even more money lost over deals you missed.

Personal and professional relationships tarnished due to chronic tardiness or over-looked appointments, reluctance to entertain due to surroundings and not being 'fully present' in your time together due to feelings of stress and anxiety.

Potential health hazards due to lack of general cleanliness or clear walking paths in which to navigate.

Are you feeling over-whelmed about lack of organization in your home office or life that you've been putting off organizing while you wait for the 'perfect time' to get started?

Contact me today!

I can help to simply get you started or help guide you through the entire process.

ANY progress today is a deposit toward a happier and more productive tomorrow.

Organizing Motivation :: Facing Change

2012-08-21T21:59:00.002-05:00

Need some friendly and supportive assistance to face change

with organizational habits in the home and in your life?

I can help.

What People Are Saying About Speaking Presentations by Operation Organization - MN

2012-07-17T15:31:00.000-05:00

In addition to personalized one-on-one Organizing services, Operation Organization - MN also provides dynamic speaking presentations on a growing variety of topics!

Here's what people are saying:

Heidi did a wonderful job tailoring a presentation to meet our business's specific needs. We are going to be moving locations and this is resulting in less work space and longer commutes for many employees. Heidi's tips to help organize our homes and our cubicles were very helpful, and got a lot of people thinking of ways to personalize their workspaces.

Mary C. Belisle

* * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Heidi spoke to our {Mothers} group this past year about home organizing and the women in our group (including myself!) left that day feeling so inspired and motivated to get organized. Heidi gave us so many good ideas that were also pretty easy to implement. One of the most important things I felt she conveyed to us was that you don't have to do it all at once; a quote she shared with us, "Progress, not perfection," is posted in my kitchen where I now see it each day!

Her presentation was both professional and personal, informative yet engaging. She acknowledged our desire to be organized, validated the obstacles we face in being organized, and gave us some confidence in moving forward towards a more organized life by sharing with us some useful tools. I would definitely love to hear her speak again!"

~Suzanne, Wife & Mother of Two

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

"We are still buzzing about Heidi's organization skills! She inspired me to declutter and find a place for everything within my home. We loved having her at Salem Mops and many of our members have benefited from having her guide them through an area or room with her personal attention at their home. We liked her so much we immediately schedule her to come back in the fall!
I have no doubt that you will enjoy her common-sense approach and will be inspired to tackle that troubled area of your home. "

~Erica Crone, Salem Mops Co-Coordinator

* * * * * * * * * * *

"Heidi's in-home presentation on organization provided a wonderful opportunity for me and my friends to gather and share about our approaches to combating life's chaos. Her presentation and the helpful handouts provided structure to our conversation, but also gave us the flexibility to linger on topics of interest and breeze by the ones that we had already [seemingly] conquered. I had really great response from my friends post-party and in addition to my own small changes in routine I've also witnessed how others have applied what they learned that day.

The group presentation is a great way to receive information and it's an affordable way to gain organizational strategies."

~Megan - Office Manager & Wife

* * * * * * * * * *

All presentations are perfectly suitable for both small and large special interest / community groups or even for an informational gathering at home with friends!

Current Topics include:

Home Organizing 101

Corralling Paper Clutter

Conquering Kid Clutter

Topics in the works:

'Take Back Your Time'

{A workshop on efficient time management & increased productivity}

Contact Heidi today to learn more and schedule a presentation for your group!

Get Organized with Dry Erase Peel & Stick Products by Scripture Art!

2012-07-09T07:29:00.001-05:00

Hi friends!

I want to introduce a few beautiful and functional organizing products that promise to help keep you organized!

ScriptureArt.Com has a simply fantastic line of Dry Erase Peel & Stick Products!

The best part? You can put them up anywhere!

They stick to any smooth surface - no magnetic surface required!! You can also remove them and reposition as needed or desired.

When the kind folks over at Scripture Art asked if I would be interested in reviewing a few of their products I was thrilled!

Initially, I had a difficult time decided what products I wanted to try.
In addition to the beautiful artistic and inspirational wall decals, they also feature meal planners, potty training charts, chore charts, growth charts, and much more!

Finally, I settled on a dry erase calendar once I remembered that upon moving to our new home, I would be needing to find a new solution for our family calendar.

Previously, I was using a large dry erase calendar attached by magnets to the side of the fridge. That solution would not work in our new place as that fridge was enclosed by the cabinetry wood.

That's the beauty of the peel and stick - this calendar can be attached to literally any surface with no damage or residue left behind! I initially tried it on a door and on a painted wall before habit won out - attached to the cabinet surrounding the fridge.

The size is just perfect - not too big and overwhelming, but large enough to print several events per day if needed. And because it's dry erase, you can use it over and over again! The calendar comes with a fine point black marker, but I like to color code our activities. The regular dry erase markers that I had been using on our previous calendar still worked beautifully.

There was such a wide array of design choices to select from. I chose the 'Julia Bird' design.

They also included a 'Julia' White Board that complimented the design of the calendar!

It attached beautifully to the front of the fridge to feature our current 'Summer Fun' list!

I love that I have the flexibility to easily remove either of the products to another room in the house (like my office space) with absolutely no mess or fuss if the need or desire strikes.

Guess what!?

ScriptureArt.com wants to give Operation Organization - MN readers a special discount!
Use the coupon code '0perationOrg15' to get 15% off any item on their site!!

What product is your favorite??

Disclosure: On occasion I receive one or more of the products or services mentioned in some of my posts for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I would personally use and believe my readers will enjoy. All the opinions are my own. Some of the links on this blog are affiliate links. If you click on those links and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission. This is greatly appreciated and enables me to share wonderful products and services to you.

Staying Organized in the Summer

2012-06-27T07:10:00.000-05:00

Hi there!

My family is currently in the midst of making a local move to a new home (I do believe an article featuring tips on moving will be in the works in the very near future...)

Take a peek into my archives this week to find a few tips on staying organized this summer:

Stock a 'Summer Fun' Bag
Six Tips for Family Road Trips
How to Hold a Successful Yard Sale
PLAN to have FUN {with Kids} this Summer!

As always, you can find more organizing links plus business news and special offers via the
Operation Organization MN Facebook Page.

What are you looking forward to most this summer?

The Science of Meeting Organizational Goals

2012-06-18T08:36:00.000-05:00

Once you've gotten that little boost to get you started in your organizing goals, the next secret of achievement is to simply keep moving.

Sincerely! It's a scientific fact....

Called, Newtons Law of Inertia:

"A body at rest remains at rest and a body in motion remains in motion... unless acted upon by an outside force.

It's important to remember and anticipate that there can and will be outside forces in life that will occasionally stop or significantly slow down your 'motion', (a personal or family illness, crisis, or even a season of extra stress from multitudes of sources that causes you to flounder from your normal routines). Once life has settled down again, you only need a different type of outside force to START moving once more.

Source: society6.com via Heidi on Pinterest

It is such a joy for me to come alongside my clients as a positive 'force' to get them started in the right direction and help keep them moving and motivated with personalized action plans, encouragement & accountability.

May the {organizing} force be with you! :)

{print via jaymug.com}

Monthly Motivation : Just Start

2012-06-11T08:26:00.000-05:00

Need a little boost getting started?

I can help! :)

Organizing Small Spaces : Utilize Every Nook & Cranny

2012-06-06T11:55:00.000-05:00

When Organizing Small Spaces, develop a keen eye to locate storage opportunity in every possible Nook & Cranny.

Spaces like...

In a Corner:

'Family Drop Spot' via Hi Sugarplum

Corner Mud Room via Scattered Thoughts of a Crafty Mom

Behind a Door:

Closet Command Central via Operation Organization - MN

Source: Uploaded by user via Heidi on Pinterest

Magnetic Organization Board via House of Smiths

Cupboard Cork Board via Young House Love

Under the Bed:

iVillage Under the Bed Kids Storage featured via Home Depot

Under Bed Storage & Play Table by Childs & Co

Storage Bed by Pottery Barn

Under the Stairs:

Mud Room Under the Stairs via Better Homes & Gardens

Under-the-Stairs Storage Shelving via Inspiration for Home

Source: elenaslife.com via Anita on Pinterest

Turn a Closet under the stairs into a mini playroom like above found on Home by Heidi

Contact me to find & create storage opportunities in under utilized space in your home or office!

Read more from the Organizing Small Spaces Series:

Boys Bedroom Before & After

2012-05-29T14:32:00.002-05:00

Here's a peek at a boys bedroom that got some organizational TLC.

Before, Lego creations were 'displayed' all over the house from the dining room table to the ironing board. Mini collections/creations of various sorts were scattered throughout the bedroom.

Now, additional shelving {IKEA Expedit} plus a new furniture layout provides strategic zones of activity. There is a designated {and limited} space for collections within storage boxes, as well as additional shelf space for display. A floating shelf will also soon be installed to showcase new Lego creations as well.

Do you need some help bringing strategic order and storage serenity to a children's bedroom or playroom in your home?

Contact me to schedule a consultation!

Organizing Small Spaces :: Dual Purpose Rooms

2012-05-22T14:14:00.000-05:00

We are in the midst of a series of articles featuring tips and solutions for Organizing in Small Spaces.

When dwelling in a small space, it's helpful to find strategic ways to set up your rooms to serve dual purposes.

A book case is a superb way to section off one large space into multiple activity areas/zones (with a bonus of additional storage):

One Space / Three Purposes:

{1: living area of a personal friend of mine}

{2 : computer/message area}

{3: Play Area}

Living Room/Dining Room:

{image via housetohome.co.uk.com}

Office / Living Room

{Image via Alanna Cavanaugh}

Living Room / Bedroom

{Image via apartment therapy}

A shared sibling bedroom:

{side 1 for a girl - via IKEA Share Space}


{side 2 for a boy- via IKEA Share Space}

Kitchen/Creative Work Space:

{via BHG}

Create space for an office/creative space in any room with the help of ...

~ a closet ~

{coat closet turned mini office via Women's Day}

~open shelving~

{leaning shelves sold at Container Store}

or,

~ an armoire~

Source: bhg.com via Heidi on Pinterest

Alternatively, consider completely re-purposing a 'traditional' room entirely. Pay no attention to how blue prints would define your space.

Design rooms to serve you and your families individual needs:

Formal Dining room turned Home Office:

{image via Apartment Therapy}

Formal Dining Room Turned Craft Room: (via Tatertots & Jello):

Before:

After:

Need a hand creating dual purpose spaces in your home?

Contact me today to schedule a consultation!

Read more from the Organizing Small Spaces Series:

Organizing Small Spaces :: Designate a {Limited} Place for EVERYthing

2012-05-16T14:00:00.000-05:00

We're in the midst of a series featuring tips and strategies for organizing small spaces.

Here's what we've covered so far:

Today, let's talk about finding a place for everything.

Quote by Benjamin Franklin; Wall Decal by Twismo

When striving to achieve organization in any space, it's important to find a place or 'home' for each and every item you own. If there is not a designated space for things to go, they'll immediately turn into clutter.    I've said before that clutter is magnetic. It just takes one or two 'homeless' items lying around, and more nearly always tends to gather there as well.

It is especially important to find 'a place for everything' when living in a small space, because items that are out of place are always 'in your face.' There's just no hiding the visual clutter.

The first step is to truly accept and embrace the storage you actually have currently and then begin setting up visual boundaries in addition to a few limiting containers for your things to 'live'.

Take a tour around your home
- Make note of where clutter regularly builds up and what items are the usual suspects of landing there.   When your tour is finished, begin making action plans of where 'homeless' items could potentially live, rather than always landing in any random location.

Assigning specific places for things will save time you're likely currently loosing while looking around for them. This will also grant you a general sense of peace, knowing important things will be there when you need and want them.

Never can find your keys, wallet and/or purse?

- Designate a specific place for them.
A simple solution could be as simple as a few cleverly mounted hooks:

{ via Better Homes & Gardens }

...or in a decorative dish, sitting on a shelf near where you enter/exit the house:

{ via TheLateAfternoon.com }

Always poking around for where the various remote controls, cords or small electronic devices could be?

- Give them a specific place like a tray, bin, or basket:

{ via 1cheapmama }

{ via goodbyehousehellohome.com }

Feel like you're drowning in newspapers, magazines or books?

-Choose a limiting container, shelf or space for them to be stowed.
When it's full, let some go before allowing any more in your home:

{ via decorpad.com }

Paper is a # 1 culprit for cluttering up counter tops.

Toys and children's belongings are also regular offenders in main living areas.

-Set up small 'zones' in specific areas of your home to house these things.
Then, only allow what will fit in that space to be stored there.

There has always been a designated place for a few toys to be stored in the main living areas of our home. Here's a peek of the 'toy zone' in our living room:

{only toys that fit in this corner may 'live' in our living room}

We currently live in a 2 story home. While most toys 'live' upstairs in bed rooms, I know my kiddos would much rather play where everyone else is on the main level. I'm fine with allowing a limited amount of toys to be in the living room/family room - as long as there is an 'out of the way' place for them to be put away between play sessions. Once these 3 baskets are full, the expectation is that some toys must be put away upstairs before new ones are stored here. (that big one is actually a bit fuller than I'd prefer - but that's how it *really* looks during rest time today) ;)

We're preparing to move to a new home in the next few months, and I've got a little something like this in mind to house 'living room toys' in an even more concealed manner:

{ via 6th Street Design School }

I linked to a post from CentsationalGirl.com on the Operation Organization-MN Facebook page recently highlighting ideas on setting up a Home Office in a Small Space. Check it out!

Both paper and toy clutter will likely require minor daily maintenance to keep on top of, but again - this 'defining the space' is just a first step....

Living in a small space means you must be ever more diligent to 'keep only what is truly useful and beautiful' as well as what actually fits in the space you have available.

Though you may have a beautiful collection of shoes and/or purses, only keep what you can reasonably and adequately store within a designated {and limited} space. Consider an under-the-bed storage bin or an over-the-door organizer to hold extras that are not being used.

{ over the door purse rack by Linens & Things }

When these places/spaces are full, that is a visual boundary to remind you that you need to let go of some of these items before purchasing or collecting any more.

If you simply adore the hobby of scrap-booking, crafting, or preparing an artfully packaged gift, you have to be very aware about how much space you realistically have to stow the physical materials that all these activities require. Set up a limited space where they will belong as well as limiting containers that will fit comfortably into that space. Then, don't purchase any more than will fit there:

{ creative gift wrap idea collage via HappyClippings.com }

A shared family bathroom can be quite difficult to keep tidy when considering all the items used by multiple people each end every day.
- I love this idea by a thrifty and clever homeschooling mom of four:

{ via Saving4Six.com }

Assign a uniform sized personal care container for each family member to hold necessary bathroom gear. If there is not space for these containers within the bathroom (inside a cabinet, closet or constructed open shelving). A bathroom caddy could be created for each family member to keep in bedrooms and toted to the bathroom - just like life in the dorms:

{ via hercampus.com }

It's important to understand that just assigning things a 'home' does not automatically guarantee they'll always be there (that's whole other discipline to developing an organized lifestyle), but knowing you have a space and place for your things is certainly a step in the right direction.

Are there areas in your home or office that could use some designated storage planning ?

Contact me!

I'd love to come alongside you to help save time & money!

Did you find this article helpful?

Please do consider sharing with the social icons below...

Organizing Small Spaces :: Maximize Storage With Shelving

2012-05-07T07:30:00.000-05:00

We are in the midst of a series of articles featuring tips and solutions for Organizing in Small Spaces.

The introductory article highlighted a few simple ways to create more space in small living areas. One of those points included being on the lookout for shelving opportunities.

Shelving is one of the best ways you can make add a power punch of storage without forsaking much square footage for living. A few lucky home owners have lovely built-in wall storage, but with a little creativity, even a home with no built-ins can achieve the same look with bookcases or constructed shelving.

In the Living Room or Den:

Get brave and creative with furniture placement. Save those walls for some shelves!

Line an entire wall with bookcases...

(1)

(2)

Even a half wall of shelving offers a lot of storage...

(3)

(4)

Notice how in all the above images, at least a portion of furniture is in front of the bookcase?

Shelves can be utilized to stow books & magazines, decorative items, media collections, special mementos, games, photos/photo albums, or even toys.

Create the option of a visual barrier if you wish, by suspending a curtain from wall-to-wall.

(5)

(an IKEA DIGNITET Curtain wire would be a great solution to pull this look off)

In The Kitchen:

Lacking in cupboard and cabinet storage?

Add some shelving to an open wall!

(6)

(7)

(8)

(9)

Added shelving in the kitchen doesn't need to be all about function.

Use shelving to showcase some of your favorite decor items along with commonly used kitchen items like cookbooks and cake stands to produce some instant eye appeal:

(10)

In the Bathroom:

Bathrooms are notorious spaces to be short on storage.

Added shelving in otherwise wasted space near a toilet is a perfect option to stow towels, toiletry gear plus a few decorative items:

(11)

There is often ample space above a toilet perfect for open shelving to house cosmetics and/or hair products.

(12)

Over-the-door shelving is a perfect solution to house overstock products.

(13)

In the Laundry Room:

(14)

(15)

(16)

(17)

(18)

Need a hand in bringing more organization to your small space?

I can help!

Image Sources:
(1) BHG.com (2) House and Home (3) Mini Manor via Remodelaholic.com (4) IHeart Organizing (5) ~from Domino magazine (discontinued), via Shelter (6) Flickr: 'Marie's Shots' (7 & 8) BHG.com (9) Molly Frey Design via Bella Vita (10) A Place For Us (11) The Order Obsessed (12) Small Moments (13) MarthaStewart.com (14) The Mongrel.com (15) HouseandHome.com (16&17) The Farm Chicks (18) Secrets of Getting Organized : {BHG special interest publication}

How to Create Space in Small Living Areas

2012-05-01T07:00:00.000-05:00

* This is the first of a series of articles dedicated to organizing solutions for small spaces *

Note from Heidi:

The following article was submitted by a guest blogger

Author’s Bio:

Lisa is a blogger at Self Storage Deals who writes on the subjects of home storage options and interior design. Right now, she is working on projects that involve the maintenance and organization of storage units in Colorado Springs and storage units in McAllen. "

Living in a home that’s limited in size certainly creates unique organizational challenges. Rooms in a small living space can easily become cluttered if you’re not particularly careful about it. The key to avoiding clutter in a small home is to create as much usable space for your belongings as possible. Here are a few practical ways to make that happen:

Make Purging a Habit

The hard reality is, the less space you have at home, the fewer things you’re able to keep & store.

Anytime you bring something new into your home, make efforts to get rid of something old. A helpful guide might be considering items that you haven’t used in the past four months and items you have no intention of using in the next four months.

Consider Furniture Size

{from the original Domino via Home for the Better}

Take a good look at all the furniture you have in your home. Could you replace your large sofa with a loveseat or switch out the queen bed in the guest room with a twin? The smaller your furniture is, the more space you’ll have to store other household items in an organized manner.

Look for Shelving Opportunities

{housetohome.co.uk.com}

Shelves are a great place to store photos, books, DVDs, and decorations. As an added bonus, shelves don’t use up any of your valuable floor space, as a cabinet would.

Assess Your Electronics

{tchousetohome.wordpress.com}

A flat screen TV that you mount to your living room wall takes up a lot less space than a TV that rests on a large entertainment center. Additionally, a laptop takes up a lot less room than a personal computer that must be stored on an immovable desk or workspace. So, when it's time for an upgrade, make intentional space-saving purchases.

Putting forth some intentional effort to create more space in a small living area will go a long way to enable you to enjoy and appreciate your cozy home.

Have you successfully created an organized space with limited square footage?
Submit a few photos operationorganizationmn@gmail.com with a short explanation to be considered for a feature in an upcoming article!

Need some help strategically creating more space in your home?

I can help!

15 Ways a Professional Organizer Can Help You

2012-04-23T11:50:00.000-05:00

In addition to being asked how to become a professional organizer, I'm also often asked what I DO as a Professional Organizer.

Becca Clark of convenientlyorganized.com , a Professional Organizer in central Arkansas, shared this fantastic 'job description' in a recent newsletter;

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

"Professional Organizer" can mean many things to different people, and because the industry is still relatively new we are continually defining and describing the services we offer.
Here are just a few of the job titles and descriptions collected from NAPO organizers -
{in alphabetical order of course}!

1. Big Picture Breaker Downer - Is your goal feeling too big to even begin? We help you visualize the end result then chunk it into manageable bites to get started.

2. Clutter Adviser - We help you set up a system to manage the clutter and give you new ways to think about stuff and its relationship to your real life.

3. Coach - Are you stuck? We help you see the issues, then guide you toward the solutions that will get you moving forward again.

4. Downsizing Specialist - Moving to a smaller space? We help you determine what fits your new life and space, and then find the best and most meaningful ways to share the rest.

5. Environmentalist - Want to eliminate the excess but not add to landfills? Organizers offer thoughtful and knowledgeable options for donating/disposing of your reusable things.

6. Family Mediator - Differing opinions about how to use shared spaces? We work with entire families to find compatible systems that everyone can live with.

7. Feeling Overwhelmed Tackler - Not sure where or how to begin? We know about that overwhelmed feeling and can help you make that start and find motivation to keep going.

8. Laborer - Need helping hands to tackle any situation - from a drawer to a storage unit to a whole house? Organizers don't see any job as too big, and we're ready to jump in!

9. Money Saver - Tired of buying things over and over because you can't find what you need? You'll save money once you can see and easily access your possessions.

10. Permission Granter/liberator - Torn about getting rid of stuff - everything from high school trophies to the less than lovely clock from Auntie Jane? We give you permission to part with things that no longer serve your life. Sometimes it's OK to let go.

11. Positive Nag - Need reinforcement? We'll encourage you to keep going - in the kindest way!

12. Product Adviser - Don't know the best storage and organization products and tools? We do, and we can find the best deals and customize to what works best for you.

13. Teacher - Want to learn new strategies, skills, and motivators? Our most important function is to transfer skills so you can take on any organizing project and earn an A+!

14. Time Saver - Always rushing around, running late, looking for you important stuff? We teach time management skills and best practices along with organizing your stuff.

15. Cheerleader - Need a pep talk? We understand and appreciate your efforts and successes. and we love to celebrate with you!

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Yep, I'd have to say that sums up the work of a Professional Organizer quite well!

Contact me to learn how I might be able to help you!

My Journey to Becoming a Professional Organizer

2012-04-16T07:15:00.003-05:00

I get several inquiries a month regarding how I got into the field of Professional Organizing, in addition to a general curiosity about the industry overall. While I would sincerely love to respond to each inquiry individually, I just don't realistically always have the time to do so. It occurred to me that sharing my journey in the form of a blog article would be a great solution!

There are MANY avenues that one could take toward becoming a professional organizer (and there are many types of organizers). While I don't profess to be an 'expert' at starting a business in this field, I'm happy to simply share my own story...

I married my husband 2 weeks after my college graduation. As a new bride, I entered the full-time workforce with only a vague idea of what I wanted to pursue career-wise. I had earned a degree in Mass Communications because I thought I would enjoy the coursework and subject matter, and I did! Though, as time went on, I was not fully convinced I could see myself in a traditional mainstream career that my college training was preparing me for (truth be told, upon enrolling in college as a freshman, my long-term goals were primarily focused on a future in the theater...but that's another story altogether!).

For several of those newlywed years I worked whatever jobs I could, in the series of towns we found ourselves living in, to support my husband during graduate school. While I was a hard worker and determined to succeed wherever I was employed, I was never completely satisfied in the work I did. There was always a part of me that felt ‘untapped’ or unfulfilled. I also had a recurring desire to work for myself. This most likely stemmed from the fact that I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs!

During those years, I had time to contemplate what I really enjoyed about each job I had held, as well as pin-point specific talents or strengths I had that could translate into some sort of small business. I read several books that aided in this reflection period.

The book, Why you Can’t Be Anything You Want to Be, was particularly helpful.

“This book is based on the idea that every person is endowed from birth with a unique pattern of skills, competencies and motivations, or gifts. This book describes your Motivated Abilities Pattern (MAP) which indicates your personal giftedness and encourages you to pursue your unique calling and live a purposeful life that is highly productive and richly satisfying.”

Motivated Abilities are the abilities and activities that:

You are drawn to

You find absorbing and engaging

You gravitate to without thinking about them

Come so naturally to you that you think of them as ‘common sense’

Many people lose track of time when these abilities are engaged. They represent you at your best.

I observed that in every job I had, I thoroughly enjoyed the role of service that I could supply. I liked feeling useful and helpful to either customers or my employer. Other jobs revealed a natural ability with leadership roles that allowed me to develop, motivate and teach in some way. More than that, I realized that I thrived in settings where I was allowed an outlet of creativity and quick problem solving. As a life long planner/list maker, I've always known myself to be a very task oriented person. However, I needed plenty of new tasks and challenges in order to keep me interested in my tasks, or I'd soon become quite bored and lose motivation. I also discovered that I am a people person and that I enjoy my work much more if I can work alongside someone else, rather than alone, at least 50% of the time.

Eventually, I stumbled upon a show on the HGTV network called 'Mission Organization.' It was then that I learned that there was actually such a thing as a ‘Professional Organizer.' After watching several episodes of the show, it occurred to me that this particular trade really did play to a lot of my natural abilities and interests.

It also occurred to me that organizing is something I had been doing/thinking about (for myself and others) since childhood. This was a type of task that was indeed easy for me to ‘get lost in’ and that I never tired of. It also played to my natural ability and interests in helping, serving, and teaching, not to mention the creativity I could exercise in coming up with clever and novel organizing solutions. Pairing this idea with my personal drive to own and operate my own business, this career path began to look extremely promising!

I knew it would be a few more years before I could realistically launch an official business. At the time, I had a baby at home, and a husband in the middle of pursuing his Ph.D. I used the next few years to intentionally build my knowledge of the field of organizing in addition to researching how to start a small business.

I discovered the website, onlineorganizing.com and found it to be quite helpful in my early planning stages. The articles and quizzes helped to guide my mental process in understanding How To Become A Professional Organizer. This particular website provides several suggested resources for organizational study/business start-up as well as an on-line training academy. You can also inquire about hiring a qualified personal coach who can help take your organizing business to the next level.

I was extremely blessed to be directed and connected with a seasoned Professional Organizer (from a personal friend) that has become a most valued mentor. She continues to be an amazing resource that I can bounce ideas off of about building my business as well as get general encouragement and practical advice from.
I look forward to the day that I, too, can act as a coach/mentor to budding professional organizers in the field (most likely when my children are quite a bit older).

My studies and inquiries very quickly acquainted me with The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO.net).

From the website:

The National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) is a group of about 4,200 professional organizers dedicated to helping individuals and businesses bring order and efficiency to their lives. Our vision is to have the world recognize the value of organizing and turn to NAPO as the leading organizing authority. Our mission is to develop, lead, and promote professional organizers and the organizing industry.

In addition to serving professional organizers, we aim to help consumers and those interested in becoming professional organizers. We offer programs, information, and guidance for each of these groups.

While a membership with a local NAPO chapter paired with achievement of a certification in organizing {through a guided curriculum that they offer} could certainly increase your credibility, increase your exposure, and help provide general confidence as an organizer, it is not required to obtain in order to offer professional services.

I opted to initially develop my own self-guided curriculum in the early stages of my business based on the current season of life we were in. I considered some of the texts suggested on both websites, utilized my local library and whenever we had a date night that led us to a bookstore, I always wandered through the small business and home/decorating/hobby sections to add to my continuing education.

I honed my growing skills by offering organizing services to friends and family members either for free or for a very low fee {I viewed this process like an Internship} to get experience as well as eventual references/referrals.

About three years and one more baby later, hubby completed his Ph.D. The opportunity for officially launching my business was at hand! I created a list of all that I would need to complete for a very basic start-up with the help of the secretary of state website suggestions (things like taking care of legalities, creating a website and social media presence, getting business cards printed, generating marketing and advertising ideas to get my name out in our new community) and began working toward completing them little by little, one day at a time.

I've made a personal commitment to continue reading and learning something new that will help build upon my skills and knowledge each and every day that gives me the continued confidence and ability to service a variety of organizational challenges. It is also a goal of mine to eventually achieve a few specific certifications in order to offer specialized support to specific more challenging or chronic disorganization circumstances.

It is my personal opinion that natural ability, know-how, and a general passion and enjoyment of organizing is but a small portion of what it will take to succeed as an independent Professional Organizer. You've first got to have plenty of guts, ambition, and drive in order to conquer the many challenges you're sure to encounter as an entrepreneur. I would also say that it's possibly equally important to not only have confidence in your skills, but also possess a nurturing and compassionate temperament in order to come alongside to serve, educate, motivate and inspire your clients in their unique organizational goals and challenges.

Best wishes on your organizing journey!


{Image via apartment therapy}