What I love about organization is that it allows for you to see what you have in each category of your home, so you’re less likely to buy duplicates or overbuy items that you don’t need. During the decluttering process, it’s important to take note of the items that you are discarding and determine if they are in sellable condition. Between yard sales and apps that make it easy to sell items, your clutter could easily turn into cash! But, is it worth the effort? It depends…

I have to say, there has never been a time quite like now in my career where there has been so much buzz about organization. After Netflix released it’s new series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo on New Years Day, there’s been so much chatter surrounding the tidying expert across news channels and press outlets, social media feeds, and friends, clients and family have brought it up on a daily basis.

Getting kids involved in the organizing process and showing them not only the importance of decluttering but HOW to actually declutter is a lesson that they will carry on with them as they get older. As a parent, I know that many of you are probably reading this and thinking “there’s no way my kid will do this.”, and I HEAR YOU but don’t lose hope just yet! Take a look at my top tips for getting kids on board with decluttering. So, whether your kids are young or you’re interested in getting your teens involved, read on!

A lot of my organizing tips are specific to an area of the home (like the kitchen, playroom, or under the sink), but there is a common area that we are all touching on an everyday basis: our email inboxes! While this area of your life doesn’t fill up with the same type of clutter that you see around your home, the impact of the disorganization in this area can be just as frustrating and difficult to navigate and honestly one of the most difficult areas to organize.

As a professional organizer, I’m always asked if I “make” my clients get rid of stuff while helping them declutter. In case you’re wondering the same thing…the answer, in short, is: absolutely not. In recent years there has been a growing interest in minimalism and a greater emphasis on “less is more”, but before you jump on the bandwagon and rid your home of anything that doesn’t bring you joy, take a moment to carefully review a couple of categories before letting them go.

There are some categories that are easier to declutter than others. For some people, it’s easy to discard old bills or clothing, while for others the thought of donating stuffed animals or books seems next to impossible. We all have those categories that are difficult to tackle. For me? My skincare and makeup. I know, I know…how can something that I put on my face be so tough to declutter? The sentimental association I have with the products makes it difficult for me to let go.