What is clutter?
There are many different kinds of clutter:
- Things you do not use or love.
- Things that are untidy or disorganized.
- Too many things in too small a space.
- Unfinished things or procrastination.
- Physical, paper, mental and emotional clutter
Why should I hire someone to help me?
Sometimes hiring a professional can be a real boost to getting started, when we feel overwhelmed or don’t know where to begin. A professional organizer can see our blind spots and offer new solutions that we may not have thought of. And he or she can help keep us on track during a scheduled session, with focus and intention. Eventually, one gains independence, learns these skills for one’s self and adapts them in one’s daily life. Hiring someone can be just the boost and encouragement you need to get you started!
Do I need to be there at a session?
Yes, it is key for you and I to work together, as you will make the final decisions during the sorting process. I am there to navigate the session, keep us on track and offer solutions, but we definitely do this work together!
How long is a typical session?
Usually about 3 to 4 hours at a time.
Often I work 9 to noon or 1 to 4, Mondays through Fridays.
A typical session requires focus and concentration, so most folks can do a 3 hour stretch. However, with bigger projects, such as packing for a move or working in a garage, we can also do a whole day, from 9 to 4, with a 1 hour lunch break.
I am overwhelmed and I don’t know where to begin. Where do I start?
Give me a call and we can either talk on the phone or I can do a 30 minute home visit. Instead of thinking about your whole home, break it down into areas or zones. Where are you most frustrated? What areas do you use every day? What is calling out to you first? We will break it down into small doable steps and work on one area at a time. As you do this work more and more, it is like flexing a muscle. You build confidence and skills as you go. The first time can be the hardest, but like anything, with regular practice, it gets easier as you go.
Allowing you in my home can be a very intimidating experience. My belongings are very personal. Will you judge me?
No, I will never judge you or anyone in your family. This work is deep and profound. I come with an open mind and an open heart.
I don’t see problems, but instead I look for solutions.
Will you tell me to get rid of all my things?
No, I will never tell you to dispose of any item.
I will be there to guide you through the sorting process and offer options of what to do with unsure items, but the final decision is always yours.
What do I need to do to prepare for our first session?
Nothing! Just be ready in the time and space we have chosen and I will bring empty boxes for sorting.
Do you work with hoarders?
No, I do not work with hoarders. While I have great empathy for them and their situation, it is beyond my ability and expertise. But I will help a hoarder look for the appropriate professional services in their area, if available.
I have young children. Can they be present at a session?
While young children are a delight to be with, I request that I only work with the adult during a session. That way, we can be focused and give our full attention to our tasks without distractions.
Do you work with kids?
I have worked with children from the age of 10 and up, while the parent is there in the room. We have de-cluttered old toys, clothes, books and craft supplies and together, found charities, schools or other families with younger kids where these things went for donation. It was a pleasure to watch young kids do regular purges, evaluate their belongings and make conscious and intentional decisions in regards to their things.
They are now benefitting from learning these skills at a young age.
Do you take away boxes of things I want to donate?
Yes, I can take away boxes of donations for the Good Will in Boulder.
I charge a fee of $20 for this service.
I will bring you a tax donation receipt for this donation.
What are some of the benefits I can experience as I go embark on this journey of de-cluttering in my life?
So many wondrous benefits!
- Less stuff = more space, more time, more money
- More mental clarity
- Deeper attention spans
- Less time managing stuff and more time for doing the things you love
- Changing of one’s consumer habits-noticing when buying something…”do I need this or do I want this?”
- Less purchases=more money
- Less stuff=use of less resources, better for our planet
- Making room for the new in life!
- And so many many more…
- Add your own to the list as you discover the benefits for yourself and write me to let me know!