
What Professional Organizers Do Differently
When it comes to organizing and decluttering spaces, professional organizers seem to have honed a craft that many aspire to achieve. However, their insights reveal that the secret lies not merely in organization techniques but in the habits they avoid. This article explores nine key practices that pro organizers steer clear of in their own homes, offering a real-world look at their philosophies.
1. Ignoring Personal Needs in Favor of Trends
One common pitfall in organizing is following the latest trends. Professional organizers emphasize that true organization must reflect personal needs rather than fleeting styles. Rachel Rosenthal, an organizing expert, states, "Real organizing isn't about trends — it's about creating spaces that truly work for you." This principle warns against the allure of gimmicky products that may seem appealing initially but are not sustainable in day-to-day life.
2. Designating Junk Drawers as Solutions
Designed to hold everything from batteries to mismatched screws, junk drawers can become cluttered catch-alls. Cheryl Russo from Organizing by Cheryl advises against this habit, noting that it merely pushes clutter out of sight rather than eliminating it. Finding creative storage solutions is essential in ensuring every item serves a purpose, creating harmony in your home instead of hiding chaos.
3. Delaying Use of Meaningful Items
Pro organizers caution against reserving special items for presumed significant occasions. "I don’t believe in saving things for 'a special day' or letting things go hidden or stored away to preserve it. If something brings me joy, I use it," shares Jennifer DuBois of Home With Jen D. This mindset encourages treating cherished belongings with the importance they deserve, rather than relegating them to storage.
The Minimalist Kitchen: Less is More
One of the greatest sources of frustration is cluttered kitchen spaces filled with unused gadgets. Professional organizers advocate for removing seldom-used items and maintaining a logical arrangement of what you actually use. "I ensure my kitchen flows — things I use often are within reach, categories are grouped logically," states a kitchen organizing enthusiast, emphasizing that a streamlined approach leads to efficiency.
4. Eliminating Cord Clutter
Tangled cords can disrupt the aesthetics of an organized home. Pro organizers deploy practical solutions like clips and cord wraps to conceal those unsightly chargers and wires. As DuBois puts it, "Even the most organized space can feel chaotic when cords are visible." Keeping tools tidy elevates the overall feel and function of any room.
5. The Trap of Buying Storage Before Decluttering
In the course of preparing their spaces, many individuals instinctively grab storage bins without the prior step of evaluating what needs organizing. Nichole Gehman points out this common mistake. "Buying cute bins before you know what you're keeping leads to more clutter. Know what you have, THEN problem-solve with product," she explains. This critical step ensures you have effective strategies and solutions tailored to your actual needs.
6. Letting Guilt Influence Decisions
Sentiment often makes decluttering a nagging challenge, as emotional attachments can lead to holding onto items out of obligation or guilt. Pro organizers encourage letting go of possessions that no longer serve you, regardless of their backstory. This liberation not only creates physical space but also promotes emotional well-being.
Final Thoughts on Home Organization
Embracing organization isn't just about keeping things in their place; it’s about fostering an environment that reflects your life and values. By steering clear of common pitfalls, professional organizers adopt practical, mindful strategies that make their homes not just organized, but truly livable. To create your own space of ease and joy, consider implementing these insights into your organizing routine.
Take the first steps toward a lighter, more functional home by reevaluating your organizing approach today. Embrace intentional living by shedding the clutter and savoring your space as you create it!
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