February 15, 2024

Organizing Tips for Military Families on the Move

February 15, 2024/ Jeannine

San Diego, with its vibrant military community, has been a backdrop for my journey in assisting numerous military families with their organizing needs. Whether they're transitioning to a new station, settling down in San Diego, or embarking on retirement, I've had the privilege of guiding them through their organizational challenges. The unique lifestyle of military families, marked by frequent relocations, presents a distinct set of needs when it comes to organization. They face crucial decisions about what to pack, what to part with, and how to maintain a sense of calm amidst the upheaval of moving. My role has been to help them navigate these transitions smoothly, ensuring they feel prepared, unburdened, and ready to embrace each new chapter.

Decluttering as a Lifestyle: Regular decluttering is essential for military families. It's not just about preparing for the next move; it's about creating a home environment that feels peaceful and joyful, no matter where you are. Adopting principles from the KonMari method, ask yourself if each item in your home sparks joy. If it doesn't, thank it for its service and let it go. This approach not only simplifies packing and unpacking but also ensures that your home always reflects what's truly important to you.

The Joy of Keeping Only What Matters: Each move is an opportunity to reassess what's necessary in your life. Keeping only what sparks joy means your belongings have a purpose, whether functional or sentimental. This practice can significantly reduce the stress associated with moving, as you'll only be handling items that contribute positively to your life. Moreover, it teaches all family members, especially children, the value of simplicity and cherishing what they have.

Reducing Your Carbon Footprint: Moving frequently can have a significant environmental impact, but mindful moving practices can help reduce this. Opt for eco-friendly packing materials, like biodegradable bubble wrap or recycled boxes, and consider the carbon footprint of your moving company. Donate items you no longer need instead of throwing them away, ensuring they find a second life with someone who needs them. This not only declutters your home but also supports a more sustainable lifestyle.

Why Storing Isn't Always the Answer: While storage units can seem like a convenient solution for what doesn't fit in your current home, they often become out-of-sight, out-of-mind spaces for items that no longer serve us. Before deciding to store something, consider whether it adds value to your life. Frequent moves are an opportunity to live more intentionally, keeping only what you love and need.

March 06, 2023

How to digitally declutter your life

March 06, 2023/ Jeannine

If you haven't noticed by now, the world is digital. We don't use paper to write anymore, we don't send letters through the mail and we certainly don't call people on a landline phone. Our entire life has become digitized in some way or another; even if that just means our photos are stored digitally rather than on film! Yet as technology becomes more integrated into our lives, it can also become overwhelming; especially when it comes to cleaning up your digital footprint so that hackers cannot get access to your personal information or social media accounts are not compromised in any way shape or form. Here are six tips for organizing your digital declutter list:

Make a digital "sweep" list.

To begin, you'll need to create a list of all the things you want to declutter. This can be as simple as writing down each item on a piece of paper or using a digital document. If you don't know where to start, try making a list of everything that comes to mind when thinking about digital decluttering.

Once you've got your list ready, set aside some time for this project and make sure it doesn't overwhelm yourself with too many items on your list! Don't forget about passwords/security questions etc., either!

Kill your inbox.

The first step to decluttering your inbox is to delete/unsubscribe all emails that you don't need/want anymore. Then, set up filters and rules that will automatically file emails into specific folders. This will prevent you from having to manually file each email as it comes in, and it's an easy way to get started on the digital decluttering process.

Here are some ways you can do this:

Set up filters so that important messages go directly into designated folders, such as "Important" or "To Read." You can also create folders for different types of messages (e.g., "Client," "Co-worker," etc.).
Create rules so that emails from certain people or companies go directly into a particular folder--for example, if someone at work emails me about an upcoming meeting with my supervisor, I want those messages sent directly into a folder labeled 'Meetings.'

Clean up your contacts and social media lists to keep them relevant, active and up-to-date.

Delete contacts that are no longer active.
Delete social media accounts that you no longer use.
Delete emails that you no longer need (or at least archive them).
Update your contact lists regularly so they're up-to-date and relevant to what you do now in your life

Delete old text messages, voicemails and emails that you no longer need but are still sitting in some electronic archive system on your phone or computer.

This is a great way to declutter because it's easy to do and can solve the problem of having too much stuff on your devices. It may be hard for some people who don't like deleting things (I'm one of those people), but there's really no reason not to delete stuff if it doesn't serve any purpose anymore.

Delete or archive your read audio book titles.

If you keep books in your library that you have not finished ask yourself why you did not finish it and if it is really something you want to read n the future. Don't feel guilty for deleting a book that you did not read, if it does not support you in your present of future life it is a waste of your time.

Regularly change out saved passwords, logins, pins and security questions.

You can also use a password manager that generates strong ones for each site as well as remembers them automatically for you. This way you will only have one single set of codes that unlocks everything from Amazon Prime purchases to banking accounts and travel sites like AirBnB or Expedia!

Regularly change out saved passwords, logins, pins and security questions so they do not become vulnerable to hackers. Use programs like LastPass or Password Boss to help keep track of them all!

As you can see, there are many ways to declutter your digital life. If you feel overwhelmed by the thought of doing all of this at once, don't worry! Take it one step at a time and make sure the first thing on your list is making a sweep list so that you can keep track of what needs done when. Once that task is completed (and trust us when we say it will feel amazing), move onto something else like killing off those old emails.

August 24, 2022

10 ways to be more organized and efficient

August 24, 2022/ Jeannine

Being organized can help you be more efficient and productive in your personal life, as well as at work. There's no one-size-fits-all way to be organized—you just have to find what works best for you. Here are some tips that might help you get started:

Use a timer to pace yourself.

There are many ways to use a timer to be more efficient and organized. If you're working on a project, set the timer for 20 minutes, and make sure you focus on the task at hand. When it goes off, take a break!

If you're trying to get started on something, set a 10-minute timer so that after 10 minutes, you'll know if you're going to keep working or need to stop and do something else.

If your work requires multiple steps (like getting ready), set a kitchen timer for cooking an egg or making toast—this will help keep track of each step without having to stop everything else once everything is done cooking/toasting!

Have a timetable for which you allocate specific tasks for specific times of the day, instead of trying to do everything all at once.

Time blocking is a simple way to make your day more efficient, and it can work for both personal and business tasks. There are many different ways to time block, but the general idea is to allocate specific times for specific tasks. Using this method, you'll be able to stay focused on one task without distraction, which will lead to greater productivity and less stress overall.

For example: If you want to write an article by 2 pm today (and get paid), but find yourself wasting time on social media instead of writing—time blocking can help! Set aside two hours during your workday in which all of your attention is dedicated to writing that article; no checking Facebook or other social media sites is allowed during this period! This allows you only one hour per day when it comes down right now because all other distractions have been eliminated from existence until after those two hours pass by."

Organize your workspace so that everything you need is within easy reach.

The first step to organizing your workspace is to make sure you have everything you need within easy reach. Don’t be afraid of clutter—it’s okay if there are piles of papers on your desk, as long as they don’t get in the way. However, if something not related to the task at hand has no place other than right next to it, move it elsewhere!

Next, consider how much time and effort it will take for someone else (like a coworker) to find something in your workspace once they need it. If a coworker knows where everything is located, they can access it quickly without needing extra help from you. If not... well, I'm sure you can figure out what happens then!

Set up a system for managing clutter and keeping your workspace tidy.

When you're trying to get organized, it's important to have a system in place that works for you. Now, what does working for you mean? It means that your system is easy to maintain and change. You should be able to add new tasks or remove old ones without much thought or effort. Your system should also be easy to explain so others can understand how it works—this way, when someone new joins your team or project, they'll know how things are run with minimal confusion (and possibly resentment).

Developing a good organizational system isn't just about being tidy; it's also about creating an environment where work can thrive by streamlining processes into efficient habits. But remember that these habits will evolve over time as the needs of your business change: ensure that any changes made are agreed upon by everyone involved before making them permanent.

Have an "in" box for incoming materials and an "out" box for things that need to be processed or filed away.

Use an inbox and outbox.
Keep all electronic files in a single folder on your computer or external hard drive and store physical files in labeled file folders or a binder.
Use a calendar to manage appointments, meetings, deadlines and other time-sensitive items that aren't filed away elsewhere—make sure it's available on your phone as well so you can check dates while on the go!

Make sure to take breaks from your work. Get up periodically and walk around, get some fresh air, do something different.

Make sure to take breaks from your work. Get up periodically and walk around, get some fresh air, do something different.
How often? As often as you need to feel refreshed. You won't know how much time you need until you start taking breaks regularly, but individual needs vary wildly. Some people can go for two hours without needing a break; others may need them every 20 minutes or so. Experiment with different amounts of time between breaks until you find what works best for you!
What should I do during my break? This is up to the individual—just make sure it's something unrelated to work so that your brain has time off from thinking about anything related to being organized and efficient (or any other task).
How should I avoid getting distracted? If it helps, put away all technology during this time (or at least turn off any alerts or notifications), so that no one can reach out and grab your attention unexpectedly. Also, try not to read any emails or messages unless they're urgent; just enjoy yourself by doing anything else!

Plan your day beforehand, first thing every morning, so that you know what needs to be done as soon as possible (and by whom) and what can be put off until later in the day or on another day entirely.

Planning your day in advance is one of the best ways to be more organized and efficient.

Planning your day in advance will help you prioritize tasks, avoid procrastination, and avoid multitasking. It's also a great way to start each morning off on the right foot.

First thing every morning (or last thing at night), sit down with a pen and paper or open up your computer calendar and write down what needs to get done today, who will do it, when they'll do it—and whether there are any exceptions to these plans that need addressing immediately.

This may seem like a lot of work for something so simple-sounding—but if you think about how much time we waste by putting off things until later when they could have been done sooner or doing things out of order because we don't know what else comes next (or worse yet: not doing anything at all), then it starts making sense!

Do not procrastinate! Remember the old saying, "Procrastination is the thief of time."

Do not procrastinate! Remember the old saying, "Procrastination is the thief of time."
Procrastination is not just a bad habit; it can also be a symptom of a deeper problem. If you are regularly putting off important tasks or ignoring your responsibilities, this may be due to depression (or another mental health issue) and should be addressed by seeking professional help.

Don't be disorganized with the small things; make effort even with things like brushing your teeth, washing the dishes, and taking out the trash. Small habits like these can spread over into other areas of life if neglected.

Don't be disorganized with the small things; make effort even with things like brushing your teeth, washing the dishes and taking out the trash. Small habits like these can spread over into other areas of life if neglected.
Don't procrastinate. Take care of tasks as they come up or have a schedule that you stick to for cleaning, cooking etc. If you don't want to do something, then delegate it to someone else or set up a system so that others will do it for you (like hiring a house cleaner).
Don't let small things pile up! It's better for one big task than five little ones added together because it takes more energy away from more important things in life such as family/friends/traveling/etc.. If something takes less than 5 minutes but still needs doing then just get it done straight away! If not then write yourself a note on an electronic calendar so that when reminded later on you will remember what has been left undone before!

Don't let paper pile up! Try not to touch paper more than once to process it (either accepting it as something that must be done now, or rejecting it as something that can wait until later).

One of the most effective ways to be more organized and efficient is to treat paper as a to-do list. Don't let it pile up! When you have a lot of paper, get rid of it by treating each piece as an individual task that must be completed before moving on. If there's too much for you to handle in one sitting, then break up your task into smaller chunks or delegate some items to other people who can help out.

Before going through papers and deciding what needs action, set aside some time for yourself—even if this is just 15 minutes at lunchtime. This will allow you not only free up space on your desk but also give your brain time off from thinking about work so that when it's back at its desk later (or in bed), it'll be more alert and ready for whatever comes next!

Related: Is minimalism for you?

Being organized will benefit you both personally and professionally

Being organized is something that can be beneficial for both your personal and professional life. Organization means being in control of your schedule, and having the ability to manage it effectively. Being organized will help you get more done because you'll have a clear plan of how to spend your time and stay on top of things. It also helps reduce stress, which can be overwhelming when you're unorganized!

Being less stressed out has been shown to increase productivity, as well as creativity (source). Being more productive means having more free time. And when we're not stressing about things then we can actually enjoy ourselves!

We hope that you've found these tips useful. The most important thing is to remember that organization doesn't happen overnight and it's not easy, but it's worth the effort!

April 13, 2022

Why an organized space is important, especially when you work from home

April 13, 2022/ Jeannine

Our environment influences our mood and mental health

It’s not a mystery that when we work and live in a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment we feel happy and productive. Whether you work from home or in an office environment/cubicle, make sure you keep your space tidy and neat. You can personalize your space by decorating it with items that inspire and motivate you. Try to digitize as much as you can (paperwork,bills, subscriptions etc) and not bring in the clutter in the first place such as ads, other people’s stuff and things that don’t belong in your office space.

Minimizing distractions leads to better productivity

Decluttering your space has many benefits such as being able to easily access everything you need, without having to spend a long time looking for it. If possible, have your workspace away from main traffic areas in your home such as the kitchen or living room. If you do not have a separate room for an office, creating an office nook in your bedroom is more ideal.

Optimize your lighting to keep your eyes healthy

Working in a low lit area can be detrimental to your eyes and health. Staring at a computer screen for hours at a time is harmful to your eyes and causes headaches and fatigue. Did you know blue light glasses can help filter out blue light to effectively block the transmission of a range of wavelengths emitted from devices? Make sure you have adequate lighting during evening hours and try to open your blinds during the day to allow natural light to enter the room. Sunlight has an effect on preventing depression and anxiety. Natural lighting also helps with visibility during zoom calls. Ideally, your screen faces a wall behind you (so you don’t have people walking through) and the lighting is coming from the front of you (or behind your computer screen).

A clear desk allows for a better workflow

Psychological Flow captures the positive mental state of being completely absorbed, focused, and involved in your activities at a certain point in time. If your desk is cluttered, it can cause distraction and stress. When you have to stop working on something because you are looking for an item you need , that is not readily available, it costs you precious time and takes away focus. For optimal workflow, your desk should be completely clear from clutter. If you have a desk drawer add dividers or small clear open containers to separate items by category. For example; pens, papers, measuring tools, cutting tools, clips, etc. That way all things have a home and you know where to put things back at the end of the day. On your desk, you should only have your most necessary items such as a planner or laptop, phone or whatever project you are working on.

Add personality

Instead of only having useful things on your desk or shelving in your office, I suggest you add some beauty. This can mean different things for different people. You can have one or two sentimental items displayed such as a photo of your family/dog or an award. Looking at these items should bring you joy. Think about adding a plant or two to your work area. Have it close to natural light or get species that do not need a lot of sun. Plants purify the air and can help lift moods, studies show.

January 06, 2022

15 Experts Explain What to Get Rid of Around Your Apartment Today

January 06, 2022/ Jeannine

Figure out what to get rid of this year with these 15 tips from some of the top professional organizers around.

With 2021 officially in the rearview mirror, now is the time to purge the unnecessary items lying around your apartment, create more space and approach this new year with plenty of room to grow. Who better to break down the process of what to get rid of and what to keep than a selection of some of the top professional organizers in the industry?

Without further ado, here are 15 quick tips from some industry experts on entering 2022 with a clean space and a clear mind, void of all your outdated and unnecessary items and ideas.

1. Be honest with yourself

Steph, a Columbus-based certified KonMari consultant and professional organizer at Find Your Tidy suggests that you, "Look for areas in your apartment that are overstuffed or collecting dust to start decluttering." She goes on to say that, "Clothes and papers tend to be the main culprits, especially if you've inherited a belief that you need things just in case or because it's still good."

Being both a professional organizer and someone who has moved seven times in the past nine years, Steph also recommends, "Clearing out that sweater with the hole in the seam, those pants that have been too tight for a while or the backlog of college essays and textbooks that you haven't cracked open in years."

"Be honest with yourself about where you are in your life now, and let go of the things that don't support your current lifestyle and goals."

2. Reduce, reuse, recycle

"A good rule of thumb is, if you haven't worn or used the item in a year, it's likely you won't use it again," suggests Fort Collins-based organizer, AJ of Organized by AJ.

"With my clients, I utilize my company pillars: reduce, reuse, recycle. If the items are in great condition, consider reselling them on an app or in person at your local resale shop."

3. Optimize and organize

"Apartment clutter will undoubtedly make an already small space feel even more cramped, and it can contribute to a high-stress level," says the Cleanzen Cleaning Services Team.

"Because storage in apartments is usually very limited, optimizing the use of that space is essential. If you are like many other renters, your closet floor may be covered in shoes that you have not worn in months. As a rule of thumb, if you have not worn a pair of shoes in the last year, it is time to throw them out."

"To optimize space in your closet, consider investing in a tall shoe rack or a door-mounted rack. You could also hide a flat storage bin of shoes underneath your bed if you need to find more storage space."

4. Stay in line with your lifestyle

San Diego-based professional organizer, Janine Morales of Tidy Closet suggests that "One thing you need to get rid of today is clothes that don't spark joy or have served their purpose. A quick wardrobe edit can make a significant impact on how your closet looks and feels."

"Saying goodbye to the items that do not reflect your ideal life anymore serves for closure and starts a new beginning with only outfits that spark joy and make you feel good about yourself."

5. Embrace your current situation

"I see a lot of people that hold on to clothes that don't fit," explains Sydney, an Austin-based organizer and founder of Organize With Sydney.

"Whether the clothes are too small or too big, people like to keep every item in their closet just in case. I encourage my clients to embrace where they are in life by helping them make space in their homes for the clothes that fit and make them feel good. In the end, they stress less about their clothes because they know they can grab any piece when getting dressed and it will fit!"

6. Toss the trendy kitchen items

Professional organizer Aileen, of Aligned by Aileen, often tells her clients to remove "any duplicate items. Whether you have blended households or have collected items over the years, you only need one of everything. When it comes to single-purpose kitchen gadgets and appliances, if you're only using an item once a year or only bought it for a trendy diet (looking at you, spiralizer), you probably don't need it."

"Consider borrowing items from a neighbor or getting multipurpose tools and appliances."

7. Ditch the outdated items

"Get rid of unused or outdated computer accessories and kitchen gadgets," suggests Darra McClendon of Simply Darra.

"These items may seem helpful at the time of purchase or gifting, but they just take up valuable counter and storage space."

She encourages her clients to always, "Think of functionality and let go of the things that are just sitting there."

8. Donate your old bottles

Victoria Willard, founder of Organize Design Create, talks about one of her most common cuts while helping her clients organize by saying, "I've worked with clients in the past who have tons of reusable water bottles throughout their space. I've had one client who collects them because she finds them cute or unique. My rule of thumb is to keep two water bottles per family member and donate the rest to a women's or men's shelter."

9. Don't let paper pile up

"Even though we live in a digital age, we still need to deal with paper clutter," says Karen Elaine Olson of Organized Lane.

"To reduce paper clutter, sort your mail as it's received. Put junk mail in the recycling bin or trash. Sort bills and file them away, don't pile them on the table. Same with magazines or books. Once you've read them, pass them on to someone else or donate them."

10. Ask yourself the difficult questions

Sherri Monte of Elegant Simplicity claims that "The best way to go about ridding yourself of excess stuff is to simply ask yourself a series of questions that help you determine the significance of this particular belonging to you:"

Do I need this?

Do I love this?

Do I want to keep this?

"Determining the significance of each of your belongings takes time but you don't have to tackle everything at once."

She also encourages people to "map out a logical approach to working through the things in your apartment. Visually seeing the progress is another strategy of ensuring you maintain perspective as you work towards a more intentional way of living."

11. Don't hold on to unused hand-me-downs

Nova Scotia-based professional organizer, Cindy Wezenbeek works a lot with renters and notices that, "Renters are usually short on space and storage so it's important to sort through things in order to maximize every square foot."

"They often hang on to all the hand-me-downs they were given like furniture, dishes, etc."

She tells her clients to "Take the time to go through these hangers-on and donate what no longer serves a purpose. Odds are, someone else can use them more!"

12. Free yourself from unused furniture

Lauren of This Simplified Home suggests that you "take a look at your rarely used furniture. This includes chairs you don't sit in or side tables that gather nothing but dust and clutter. Minimizing the amount of rarely used furniture you have in your home can greatly add to a feeling of spaciousness (even in a small space)."

13. Ditch the excess emotional items

Figuring out what to get rid of is as simple as, "streamlining your space by getting rid of anything you don't love or has outlived its usefulness. This includes items such as unused gifts, unworn clothing and excess coffee mugs," explains Jenn of Intentional Spaces Organized.

As for sentimental items, Jenn goes on to say that, "We all have emotional physical clutter. These are unused gifts, expired or aspiring hobbies and old childhood relics. Believe it or not, seeing these items, or even just knowing they are buried at the bottom of a closet somewhere, causes negative emotions. Pick your favorite three to six sentimental items that contain joyful memories and lovingly release the rest."

14. Cherish memories, not items

"Anything that was gifted or given to you that you have never used, wanted, or loved, donate it or give it to someone who will," say Matina and Kristina of Two Tidy Tinas.

The Tidy Tinas go on to suggest that, "It's okay to let go of items that hold emotional significance even if someone you care about gave them to you. Someone else will be able to love and cherish those items when you let them go."

At the end of the day, they assert that the most important thing is that you "Hold onto the meaningful gesture, not the unwanted gift."

15. Reduce redundancies

"Having lived in an apartment for the majority of my adult life, I have found that I do not need these items in my space for they create unnecessary clutter," explains Jess Green of Green Mountain Space.

"If you live on your own, with a partner or family, I highly recommend keeping three sets of plate ware and flatware per person."

Another reliable way to figure out what you need to get rid of is by "purging your closet every season. This leaves you with room to be creative and grow as a person. You are not the same person you once were 10 years ago. So why keep your 10-year-old band shirt or your high school sweatshirt?"

It's up to you

At the end of the day, there's no one-size-fits-all solution to decluttering your apartment and figuring out exactly what to get rid of. If any of the tips above resonate with you, give them a try. If the end result is a more streamlined space and a clearer mind, great. If you regret the cuts you make, you can always find something new online to fill the void left behind.

Article written by Carson Sperry, find the original Blog here>>>

November 13, 2021

Fifty Tidying Affirmations

November 13, 2021/ Jeannine

Lately, there has been an increased awareness of the power of affirmations. We hear them in songs, podcasts and see them on Billboards and Social Media. Therapists and researchers have long known that practicing affirmations on a regular basis can help reduce depression and increase self-esteem. But what are Affirmations? Affirmations are positive statements you tell yourself by either reading, saying them out loud, or by writing them down. Affirmations are a powerful tool to challenge negative or sabotaging thoughts. If you have been struggling with clutter in your home and creating lasting organizing habits, consider practicing positive affirmations for productivity. Here are 50 examples of what a Tidy Affirmation might look like, feel free to change or personalize them to your own liking:

I can learn the skills to be tidy
I believe in myself and trust in my abilities
Being productive brings me joy
Action is the foundation of success
An organized space makes me feel calm
I will not allow impulse spending to ruin my finances
I am good at setting and accomplishing my goals
I can solve any challenge this day brings on
I will finish what I started
I am productive, motivated, and highly driven
I am goal-oriented
I am becoming the person I want to be
Being productive comes effortlessly to me
My mind is focused and free from distraction
I make great decisions
I am focusing on my ideal lifestyle
I put my energy into things that spark joy
Good energy is flowing through me
I am an achiever
An organized space is cleaned easier and faster
Being organized saves me time
Less debt equals less stress
I can achieve financial independence
Instead of spending money on x, I will put it in my savings/investment account
Mastering organization makes me feel like I can do anything
Tidying is a way of showing affection to my belongings
Time management comes easy to me
I keep my workspace tidy
I always show up on time
I am learning to become more organized each day
I organize my life so I can relax, knowing everything is in order
Consistent planning and organizing helps me to succeed
I envision a clutter-free life
Staying organized and on top of things makes my life run smoother
Having the space in my home, office, and car in order helps me think clearly
I have the discipline and stamina to declutter my home, one step at the time
I choose gratitude for the things in my home and say goodbye to the things that no longer serve me
I can appreciate things without possessing them
I have everything I need
Being organized allows me to do more in life
I attract abundance in life by being organized
I am in control of my life and belongings
Only good emotions are allowed to stay in my home
Owning too many things weighs me down
I welcome abundance rather than fear scarcity in my life
Being organized makes me feel empowered
Tidying is a form of self-care for me
I make progress every day by choosing to practice tidying for 30 minutes
I never have to look for things because all my belongings have a home
I feel peaceful and happy because I only own things that I cherish or that are useful

Do you have a favorite affirmation that is not listed here? Feel free to share in the comments :)

October 20, 2021

Simplify and Streamline: Tips for Downsizing Your Home

October 20, 2021/ Jeannine

Downsizing your home can help homeowners in many ways. Whether you’re selling your home or not, downsizing offers many benefits. It’s a great way to simplify your life by unloading the burden of accumulated possessions and creating a new living space. And if you have decided the time is right to start looking for a smaller home, or if you intend to begin researching senior care facilities in the area, shedding unneeded items will make it easier to attract a buyer and allow you to make a fresh start in your new home. If you're planning to sell your home as a means of downsizing, check these items off your list to get the most out of selling your home.

Start purging

Prospective buyers want to see a home with good flow and plenty of space, an environment they can envision making their own. Going room by room, make a list of things you’ll throw away, donate, or give away to others, and arrange everything based on that criteria. Make a point to get rid of anything you don’t need anymore, especially any duplicate items. Don’t forget to move out any excess furniture or decorative items that make it difficult to move around easily or make your home’s interior too busy. Remember, you want buyers to see your space through their eyes, not yours, so do as much as you can to create space. If you keep your interior as simple as possible, you should be in good shape. You can always put things into storage while you’re showing your house.

Ridding yourself of things you no longer use or need shouldn’t limit you to the kitchen, your basement, or attic. Take a broader view and get rid of old clothes and shoes, as well as any worn furniture that doesn’t fit in anymore. Old dresses and suits take up a lot of space and can make your closets look overwhelmed and disordered. Consider giving them to Goodwill or placing them in consignment. And remember, you can do the same thing with the furniture you no longer need or want. A good rule of thumb is to unload anything you can do without or that doesn’t have considerable emotional significance for you and your family.

Start early and plan ahead

Sorting through your belongings can be a difficult and emotional task. It’s not something you want to be doing at the last minute or if you’re up against a looming deadline. Take your time and do it right by planning ahead and starting as soon as possible. It’s also a good way to avoid making a mistake and purging or losing something you want to keep.

Timing

Connect with your agent to check the market conditions before committing to selling. The last thing you want to do is head down that path if it means your chances of getting top value are less than ideal. You may find that you’re unlikely to even cover your current mortgage. Check out recent sales to see if similarly sized and priced homes have sold in your area. That will help you make a final decision and establish a selling price.

The condition of your home

Another key criterion is the state of your home. If your roof needs to be repaired or replaced, or if there’s a problem with your foundation, you may need to shift priorities and invest in some needed renovations before you can place your home on the market. It’s a considerable investment, but a new roof will make your home much more attractive to potential buyers who are apt to look elsewhere if they’ll have to pay for repairs later.

Opportunity for a fresh start

Downsizing is an important task if you’re moving to a smaller home or care facility, simplifying your life, or just trying to be environmentally responsible. Do it in your own time and at your own pace, bearing in mind what you want your home to look like once you’ve finished. Whatever your motivation, see it as an opportunity to make a fresh start.

Are you in need of a professional organizer to help tidy up your place? Tidy Closet provides home organization, workshops, retreats and other resources to help declutter and clarify your living spaces. Contact us today

March 29, 2020

I am challenging you to a 10 WEEKS OF DECLUTTERING CHALLENGE!!

March 29, 2020/ Jeannine

San Diego Professional Organizer Konmari Consultant 10 Week tidy home challenge folding el cajon lakeside marie kondo

Is Corona virus leaving you stuck at home? Now is the time to get organized and stay that way. Join us on our 10 week spring de-cluttering challenge, where we as a community get organized together. No matter if you live in San Diego, Antarctica or Germany, this is for everyone that is willing to give it a try.

During these 10 weeks you will:

Figure out what your ideal lifestyle looks like
learn to decide what sparks joy and what does not
learn to let go with gratitude
organize in an efficient and practical way
create a effortlessly tidy home
be able to apply these principles to all aspect of life

Pre-Organization: Create a Vision for your ideal Life
WEEK ONE: CLOTHES: (timeline 3-6 hours)
WEEK TWO: Books: (Timeline 1-4 hours)
WEEK THREE: Papers/Office supplies (Timeline 4-6 hours)
WEEK FOUR: Bathroom/Beauty supplies (Timeline 3-6 Hours)
WEEK FIVE: Electronics (2-4 Hours)
WEEK SIX: Kitchen (Timeline 4-8hours)
WEEK SEVEN: Cleaning Supplies/Linens (Timeline 2-3 hours)
WEEK EIGHT: Toys/Pets (Timeline 2-4 hours)
WEEK NINE: Hobbies (2-6 Hours)
WEEK TEN: Sentimental's (Timeline 2-4 Hours)
Post-Organization: Permanent Storage Solutions

This Challenge will start on May 4tth. I will guide your through all the categories and give you helpful tips on how to de-clutter and organize efficiently and permanently.

If you would like to accept this challenge and get your home in order once and for all come join our 10 Week Challenge Facebook group to participate via our online platform.

Join Challenge

March 02, 2020

3 Ideas on how to make de-cluttering fun

March 02, 2020/ Jeannine

Getting organized when you feel overwhelmed can be hard. Finding time to start, when you are busy is challenging. An organizing marathon is not for everybody. If you are like me, challenges make it fun. Get together with a friend or join an online community like the KonMari+Dave Ramsey Facebook Group to find motivation, inspiration and accountability. Here are some ideas and fun challenges to help you enjoy the process.

Make a vision Board of your perfect lifestyle and hang it up in your closet to remind you of the why.
When you have a visual of the things that you value and desire, you are more likely to think about them. Make sure you create your vision board around how you want to feel in all areas of your life such as home, career, relationships, money, travel or personal growth. Once you know what’s important to you, you can delegate your time into achieving your goals. Visualization can be one of the most powerful exercises you can do and there is research to prove t too. Psychology Today reported that a study looking at brain patterns in weightlifters found that the patterns activated when a weightlifter lifted hundreds of pounds were similarly activated when they only imagined lifting. In some cases, research has revealed that mental practices are almost effective as true physical practice, and that doing both is more effective than either alone.
Play the Min-Game Challenge!
The rules are easy. You have 30 days to de-clutter and it starts with one item on day 1, then two items on day 2, three items on day 3 and so on. The further you get into the moth the more challenging it gets. At the end of the Month you have gotten rid of about 465 items! The great thing about this challenge is that it does not take a lot of time and once you get into it, it is hard to stop. There is also a whole community playing this game online and sharing their progress, you can find them on Instagram with the hashtag #minsgame to join.
Make Money!
It does not matter if you are moving, just moved in or have lived in your home for a couple of decades, making money is always helpful. Many of my clients plan to hold a yard sale at the end of their organizing journey. Make sure you set yourself a date and advertise it to hold yourself accountable. Through the process of de-cluttering your home you might even come across some unused gift cards, gift certificates or even checks that have not been deposited. The thing to remember is to price your items that they will sell. The money is already gone and you have decided that all these items are going, so remembering that all of it is going to donations afterward anyways, should give you a realistic outlook on money goals. Any money you make is going to be a profit.

February 06, 2020

The Biggest Misconceptions regarding the KonMari Method™

February 06, 2020/ Jeannine

Guest Blog: Sandy from Tidy with Spark is a Certified KonMari™ Consultant located in Irvine, CA. She loves to share her knowledge of the transformative powers of the KonMari Method™ with her clients and her social media following on Facebook and on Instagram.

As a Certified KonMari™ Consultant and professional organizer, I have heard many misconceptions about the KonMari Method™. Upon the release of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, written by Japanese tidying guru Marie Kondo, the method created a massive craze as the world was introduced to the idea of decluttering your home through a lens of joy.

Mixed in with the wave of popularity from the book came a tidal wave of misconceptions about what the KonMari Method™ really is. Let’s dig in to deconstruct the myths revealing the real truths behind the ever-popular home organization method.

Misconception #1: The KonMari Method™ is Minimalism in disguise.

People often confuse the method as Minimalism because the method emphasizes decluttering and reducing the number of items actually owned. While there are similarities between Minimalism and the KonMari Method™, the two concepts are very different. The central idea around KonMari™ is to live a joyful life through surrounding yourself with items that spark joy for you. Minimalism emphasizes reducing consumerism through purchasing decisions based on necessity and essentialism rather than through a lens of joy. Both explore the idea of reducing first before making an assessment of what is required to live surrounded by joy or simply to live with less. My own journey of home organization borrowed heavily from both KonMari™ and Minimalism. These two ideas can coexist together, complimenting one another, giving life to intentional living which I feel is the goal for both.

Misconception #2: Only wealthy individuals can use the method.

Marie Kondo encounters criticism about her method for being inaccessible for individuals below a certain socioeconomic status. Critics claim application of the method can only benefit those who have wealth and therefore excess amounts of things that can be discarded or donated without a batted eyelash. Across America, homes are stuffed to the gills with excess whether the homeowner brings in low or high income. Whether an individual has more or less disposable income is not an accurate indicator of the number of items stored in a household. With rampant debt across all income brackets, consumerism is at an all time high. In the Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, Marie Kondo expressly discourages purchasing organizational supplies prior to decluttering first. She emphasizes using containers already in existence in the home such as sturdy shoe boxes. Marie Kondo also dispels the idea that households have to own a typical item for the sake of owning the item. After discarding a hammer that was worn out, rather than replacing, Marie Kondo repurposes a frying pan to fill the need of a hammer. Finding multiple uses for an item is the KonMari™ way and this creative thinking makes the method accessible to the masses.

Misconception #3: Marie Kondo wants me to get rid of all my things.

Contrary to what many may think, according to Marie Kondo, de-cluttering is part of the KonMari Method™, but “discarding is not the point; what matters is keeping those things that bring you joy.” When we surround ourselves with items that speak to our heart, we are able to live a more joyful life. Marie Kondo explains that “our goal in tidying should be to create a living environment filled with the things we love.” Some people may get carried away in the de-cluttering process and find that discarding becomes fun. This is a warning sign to be heeded per KonMari™. Becoming a “discarding machine” will not “on its own will” bring joy to your life. Kondo reiterates that “it’s far more important to adorn your home with the things you love than to keep it so bare it lacks anything that brings you joy.”

Misconception #4: Marie Kondo wants me to talk to my things.

A cornerstone of the KonMari Method™ is gratitude. Having gratitude for our items and appreciation for how they serve us in our lives is essential to living a joy filled life. It isn’t enough for our possessions to spark joy; an extension of our gratitude towards our items creates a symbiotic relationship where our items return care and support to us. We may not entirely be aware, but “our belongings really work hard for us, carrying out their respective roles each day to support our lives”, according to KonMari. This appreciation and gratitude can be expressed to our items through care and not necessarily in an audible manner. If this feels odd to you, consider taking a mindful moment, where you purposefully express appreciation for the items that support you in your life.

One by one I’ve dispelled the fake truths surrounding the KonMari Method™. My hopes in writing this piece is to share with you how useful and relevant the method can be in your journey to home organization. With over 12 million copies sold world-wide (as of the writing of this post), the Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up has undoubtedly changed many lives across the globe. By breaking down these misconceptions, we can truly make headway towards the mission to “organize the world™”.

Notes: If you are in need of motivation or guidance in your KonMari™ journey you can find a Certified KonMari™ Consultant in your area on the official KMI webpage

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