No one ever says, "I'll buy this item and allow it to come between me and my loved ones." However, that is what excess clutter does in people's lives. It takes away from the quality of life; the thing that makes life worth living.

Professional organizers notice several similar issues that are worth mentioning. By the time most clients contact an organizer, they have dealt with their clutter for more than two years. After a while, the clients didn't even realize that it was affecting them. Some issues mentioned are self-judgment including anger, stress, illness, depression (sadness), being ashamed, feeling unable to complete a task, embarrassment in showing someone how they live; and overall helplessness in their lives. Cluttered spaces became an obstacle in their lives, be it physically or metaphorically, and are creating a barrier between them and their loved ones.

Motivation to start is always up to each person (you). Realize the importance of organizing first and foremost, and recognize that change is not a "Bad" thing. You'll get to the point where you draw the line and say, "No more, I am going to change my behavior, my space." This is the starting point to break down the clutter obstacle. When you get to this point, you need to clearly determine what your goals are for your home or office. Whether it be an efficient, functional space or a home that is maintainable by all members involved. Determine your goals by writing down what you want. This helps to clear your mind and organize thoughts. Be as specific as possible by asking questions like:

1. What do I want changed in my home or office?
2. What works? What doesn't work in the space?
3. What should this space be used for? (Family, other employee, etc.)
4. Where will I house paperwork? Where will I place my .....?

After determining your goals, list all the things you need to get to your goal. What will be done first, second, or third, etc. Be as specific as possible on each task. Try placing each task on a sticky note; and stick them on a bulletin board and rearrange your thoughts to put them in order. Create realistic "due date" tomfooleries to complete each task. Add these tasks to your calendar to make sure they get completed. Then start doing, purging, and sorting. Be focused and start with one task at a time (one sticky note) and complete it. For an unlikeable task, allocate enough time to complete it and just do it. Completing this task first helps the process move quickly because you are not dreading the unpleasant task coming next. Remember, it took a long time to create your clutter, it will also take time to completely organize it. Be strong, stay positive, and look at the progress you make, not the incompletion still remaining.

Professional organizers help make your organizing process easier. They encourage clients by giving them the ideas as well as the motivation to complete the goals. After having completed clearing their clutter, clients mention feeling happy, proud, focused, stronger in themselves, having peace of mind, security in their space, and overall order and control of their life. They can spend more time with their loved ones.

Isn't that a feeling you want?

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