Let’s Be Real About Organizing
We all see it everywhere…in magazines, Pinterest, and blogs…the perfect, spotless images of an organized life. They look beautiful and may even cause envy. While these images and ideas are fantastic ways to encourage our own creativity and DIY-ness, we must be careful that we do not allow them to discourage us or pressure us to keep up a false front to others.
I absolutely love a clutter-free environment. In fact, I often cannot rest well in a room that is very messy. BUT I have a family, including 3 little clutter-makers. And unless I spend A LOT of time constantly cleaning up their messes (no fun and do not have that kind of time), maintaining that ideal is unrealistic.
Does this professional organizer have a beautifully organized and clean home? NO! I strive to maintain this a couple times a week, and definitely employ the help of my clutter-makers, but I do have plenty of organizational and cleaning projects at home. I live in a somewhat run-down rental, filled with second-hand furniture. And honestly, I don’t even want to get new furniture until my youngest daughter turns at least 5 (over 2 years away) because my kids are marker-scribbling and spill-prone. The picture below shows what happens when I don’t get my laundry put away fast enough!
It also seems like we want to present a PERFECT SELF and HOME when others come to visit. But why? Our company does recognize that we all share that common characteristic of – what shall we call it? – HUMAN-ness! Nobody is perfect. All kids are messy (and so are adults)! And it can be relieving for company to see that their hosts share this same human characteristic trait. Because, guess what? Their house probably is the same or worse.
That being said, there are times that we should recognize when the clutter is simply too much. Is there room for company to walk into your home? Is there a place to sit? Could the dust and grime cause someone’s flair up of asthma or allergies? Would someone be uncomfortable eating food provided in your home? Hmmm….it may be time to take action.
How do we attempt to be organized while also being realistic? REDUCE. When there are less things, organization is easier. It’s less overwhelming and less time-consuming.
Now we all have excuses for the clutter, and some are definitely valid. Emotional upheavals and physical illness can incapacitate us at times. Children are little tornadoes in whatever environment they are in. And let’s face it, personalities and personal giftings impact our ability to organize. I’m an organizing type and others hate it.
Therefore, I have an encouragement for you…BE HONEST. If you need help getting your home cleaned up and organized, tell someone. If you have a friend or family member who tends to be more tidy and organized, let them know that you want to get your home in better condition but are overwhelmed, physically unable, etc. And then ask them if they would like to help you either get the work done or else help find someone else to do it.
I have a confession to make. Because I am a detailed, organizing type of person, I often feel tempted to start meddling with and organizing other people’s clutter. But I would refrain so that I wouldn’t offend. And I think my fellow organizing types out there would also share my confession. This is what makes professional organizing a perfect match for us!
So, here’s a thought: If there are people that love opportunities to help others by clearing up their clutter, and there are people that do need help to get the job done, then just think of what could be accomplished if we break through the awkwardness with some HONESTY!
There is no shame in admitting you need help getting the job done. No one is good at everything. ( I may be good at organizing, but please don’t employ me in mechanical, landscaping, art, or children’s projects!) Recognize your gifts and your weaknesses and if this is the time to tackle some clutter. I would bet there is someone within your reach who is readily willing to assist you if you asked or hired them. And then you reap the benefits of open communication and a clean and tidy environment!
LOved the article/blog. Hey, maybe that’s my calling – organizing. I completely saw myself in visiting someone and thinking to myself what I would clean, or simply just straightened up!
Go for it Ange! It’s a lot of fun. Start with people you know or around your house, take before and after pics (with permission, of course), and start building yourself a portfolio to post.