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Summer Downsizing: Let Go Without Losing What Matters

Armchair on Grass Lawn

There’s something about summertime that makes us crave simplicity. The open windows, longer days, and fresh air make it a perfect season to release the heavy weight of clutter—especially for seniors preparing to downsize. If you’re like many of my clients, you may be facing closets filled with old clothes, kitchen cupboards brimming with rarely-used dishes, or entire rooms full of “someday” items. It can feel emotionally and physically exhausting.The good news? You don’t have to part with the things that carry your story. Downsizing isn’t about tossing everything out—it’s about choosing what matters most, and letting go with intention and peace. Below, I’ll guide you through a gentle, step-by-step summer downsizing process designed to preserve your memories while clearing the clutter that’s holding you back.

Step 1: Start Small and Seasonal 🌼

Summer is the perfect time to start in a low-pressure area—like your closet. Begin with out-of-season clothing or items you haven’t worn in years. Ask yourself: Would I pack this for a move to a new home? If not, it may be time to let it go.Pro tip: Have a “maybe” box and set it in a place out of sight for now. Come back to those items after a break, and you’ll often find more clarity. [Give yourself a deadline, though – no more than a few days.] Putting those out of sight lets you make progress without forcing hard decisions too fast.

Step 2: Create a Memory Box 📦

So many seniors I work with hold onto items not because they’re useful, but because they carry memories. That’s valid—and important. But those memories don’t need to live in every item. 

Designate a beautiful memory box or bin for the most meaningful things: a few pieces of jewelry, a photo album, a handwritten recipe, or a wedding keepsake. You’re not losing the memory—you’re honoring it.

Step 3: Clear the Kitchen Chaos 🍴

Kitchens can be tricky. We hold onto dishes, appliances, and duplicates “just in case.” But if you’re moving into a smaller space, ask: Do I still bake cookies every year? Do I need three sets of mixing bowls?

Keep what you use and love. Gift or donate the rest. Imagine walking into a kitchen where you can see your counters and know exactly where everything is. It’s freeing—and it’s 100% possible.

Step 4: Ask for Help—But Only from the Right People 🤝

Not everyone understands the emotional weight of downsizing. That’s why it’s important to invite the right kind of support—someone who listens, honors your pace, and never pushes you too far.

If your family overwhelms you or wants you to “just throw it all out,” it’s okay to set boundaries. You deserve support that feels safe, calm, and kind.

Step 5: Picture the Life You’re Creating ☀️

Instead of focusing on what you’re letting go of, focus on what you’re gaining:

  • A peaceful home you can actually enjoy.
  • Fewer things to manage, clean, or trip over.
  • More room for what really matters—like quiet mornings, time with loved ones, and space to breathe.

This is your chance to carry only what serves you into the next chapter.

Final Thoughts: Letting Go Can Feel Good 💛

Letting go doesn’t mean losing your past. It means making space to feel like YOU again.

This summer, let your downsizing journey be one of clarity, not chaos. If you want a gentle guide, a proven process, and support without judgment, I’d be honored to help.

You keep the memories. I’ll help with the mess.

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Spring Home Reset: 50 Easy Things to Declutter

Banner across photos of organized rooms

Spring is finally here! As the days grow longer and the flowers start to bloom, there’s no better time to hit the reset button on your home. A fresh, clutter-free space can do wonders for your mood, productivity, and overall well-being. But let’s be real — decluttering can feel overwhelming. The good news? It doesn’t have to be!

This guide will help you tackle a quick and effective Spring Home Reset so you can enjoy a home that feels lighter, brighter, and more organized. Plus, I’ll give you a list of 50 Things to Declutter Right Now.

Why Decluttering Matters in Spring

Spring is all about renewal and fresh starts. Just like nature sheds the old to make way for the new, your home deserves the same treatment! Clearing out unnecessary items:

  • Reduces stress and mental clutter
  • Makes Spring cleaning easier and more efficient
  • Creates space for things that truly bring you joy
  • Helps you transition smoothly into the new season

Bring the Outside In: The Restorative Power of Nature

One of the best ways to enhance your home’s energy this spring is by incorporating nature. Studies show that being around greenery and natural light can reduce stress, boost creativity, and improve overall well-being. 

Consider placing fresh flowers in vases, adding low-maintenance houseplants, or simply keeping your curtains open to invite in natural light. Even small touches, like a bowl of citrus fruits on the counter, can make your home feel more alive.

Here are a few more things you can do to enjoy the season and refresh your home:

  • Open the windows to let in fresh air (unless it’s one of those spring days where the rain is coming down! 😆)
  • Swap out heavy winter blankets for lighter, spring-ready textiles
  • Add a few plants or flowers for a natural boost – my favorite is orchids with vibrant pink or purple!
  • Diffuse citrus or floral scents for an instant mood lift

How to Declutter Without the Overwhelm

Last month, I shared suggestions on How to Beat Decluttering Decision Fatigue, especially if you’re feeling extremely overwhelmed.

Here are a few more tips to keep up the momentum.

1. Set a Timer

Give yourself just 15–30 minutes at a time. Focus on one area (a drawer, a shelf, a countertop) and see how much you can clear out. What’s really been bugging you?

2. Use the “Keep, Donate, Toss” Method

For every item you pick up, ask yourself:

  • Do I use this regularly?
  • Does it add value to my life?
  • Would someone else benefit from it more than I do?

If the answers are no, no, and yes, it’s time to let it go!

3. Declutter the Most Impactful Areas First

Not sure where to begin? Start with high-traffic areas like the kitchen, bathroom, entryway, and living room. These are the spaces where you’ll feel the biggest difference right away!

The Ultimate Quick-Declutter Checklist

Want to make a bigger, faster impact? Here’s a 50-item checklist to help you clear out the clutter fast:

Kitchen:

  1. Expired pantry items
  2. Mismatched food containers and lids
  3. Old spices
  4. Chipped or cracked dishes
  5. Duplicate kitchen tools
  6. Unused small appliances
  7. Old takeout menus
  8. Old takeout condiment packets
  9. Worn-out dish towels
  10. Excess coffee mugs

Bathroom:

  1. Expired medications
  2. Old or half-used beauty products
  3. Worn-out or mismatched towels
  4. Empty shampoo and soap bottles
  5. Expired sunscreen

Bedroom & Closet:

  1. Clothes that no longer fit
  2. Worn-out shoes
  3. Old or mismatched socks
  4. Broken costume jewelry
  5. Unused accessories (scarves, belts, hats)
  6. Extra hangers
  7. Old bedsheets and pillowcases
  8. Worn-out pillows
  9. Books you won’t read again
  10. Random items on your nightstand

Living Room & Office:

  1. Old magazines and newspapers
  2. DVDs/CDs you never use
  3. Random cords and chargers
  4. Dead or extra batteries
  5. Outdated paperwork
  6. Unused decorative items
  7. Broken pens or dried-up markers
  8. Extra notebooks you’ll never use
  9. Expired coupons
  10. Old or broken electronics

Kids’ & Pets’ Items:

  1. Broken toys
  2. Outgrown clothes
  3. Games or puzzles with missing pieces
  4. Worn-out stuffed animals
  5. Expired pet food or treats

Garage & Storage:

  1. Rusty or duplicate tools
  2. Half-used cans of dried-out paint
  3. Broken holiday decorations
  4. Extra plastic bags
  5. Old sports equipment you don’t use
  6. Empty or old cleaning supplies
  7. Unused flower pots
  8. Worn-out or broken umbrellas
  9. Old luggage or backpacks
  10. Items you meant to donate but never did

Tackle this list in small bursts, and your space will feel refreshed in no time!

Ready to take it to the next level and get everything else organized? Contact me to learn how I can help you tackle everything leftover with a personalized organizing plan.

Enjoy Your Lighter, Brighter Home!

By taking just a little time to declutter and reset, you’ll set yourself up for a season of clarity, calm, and comfort. So grab a trash bag, set a timer, and start fresh this spring!

Until next time!

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Decluttering Without the Headache: How to Avoid Decision Fatigue

Woman Deciding What to Keep Toss or Donate

Why Choosing What to Keep Is So Exhausting (and What to Do About It!)

Have you ever found yourself staring at a box of old birthday cards for an hour, unable to decide whether to keep or toss them? Or maybe you’ve picked up the same sweater five times, only to put it right back in the donate pile—and then take it out again? Welcome to decision fatigue, my friend. It’s the sneaky, energy-draining culprit behind why decluttering can feel so overwhelming.

What Is Decision Fatigue (and Why Does It Matter When Decluttering)?

Every day, we make about thousands of decisions. That’s right—thousands of tiny (and not-so-tiny) choices, from what to eat for breakfast to whether we really need to order another storage bin from Amazon (spoiler: the answer is no).

Decision fatigue happens when our brains get overloaded from making so many choices, leading to slower thinking, impulsive decisions, or complete shutdown mode.

When decluttering, every single item demands a choice:

  • Keep or toss?
  • Donate or sell?
  • Store in a bin or put on a shelf?
  • Would I regret getting rid of this?
  • Why do I even own this??

Sound familiar?

It’s no wonder decluttering feels like running a mental marathon! The more decisions we make, the harder it becomes to make good ones—especially if we’re already tired, hungry, or stressed. But don’t worry! As a professional organizer, I’ve got some tried-and-true strategies to help you break through decision fatigue and finally clear that clutter with confidence.

How to Beat Decluttering Decision Fatigue

1. Make the Easy Choices First – aka Low-Hanging Fruit

Not all decisions are created equal. Start with the no-brainers—trash, broken items, or things you KNOW you don’t need. This builds momentum and saves your mental energy for tougher calls (like what to do with that sentimental-but-dusty collection of concert T-shirts).

2. Limit Your Choices

Too many options lead to analysis paralysis. Instead of thinking about all the places an item could go, narrow it down: Keep, Donate, or Trash. That’s it. When you’re decluttering, you’re simply sorting through the items — you aren’t organizing yet so save those decisions for later.

3. Declutter in the Morning

Our brains are sharper earlier in the day, so tackle decluttering when you have the most mental energy. Save mindless tasks (like folding laundry or wiping down shelves) for later when decision fatigue starts creeping in.

4. Stick to a Decluttering Plan

Decision fatigue is worse when we don’t know where to start. Create a simple system before you begin:

  • Pick a room or category (clothes, books, kitchen gadgets) [If you need to have smaller focus, pick a shelf or drawer]
  • Set a time limit (30 minutes to an hour is a great start!)
  • Use a checklist to track progress and avoid getting sidetracked

5. Make Guidelines for Yourself

Give yourself guidelines to speed up decisions. Some ideas:

  • “If I haven’t worn it in a year, donate it.”
  • “If it’s expired, toss it.”
  • “If I wouldn’t buy it again today, let it go.”

Rules remove the emotional guesswork and make decluttering so much easier.

6. Take Breaks & Fuel Your Brain

Decluttering can be surprisingly exhausting. Stay hydrated, eat a snack, and step away when you need to. Spending time outside in natural light and fresh air gives your brain a boost, plus movement helps reduce stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a quick walk around the block to reset your mind and make tough decisions feel less daunting.

7. Don’t Aim for Perfection – It doesn’t exist!

No home is perfectly organized. Instead of obsessing over making the “right” decision for every item, aim for progress. A decluttered home that’s 80% organized is way better than a chaotic space stuck at 0% because you’re overthinking every decision.

Final Thoughts: Make Decluttering Easier on Yourself

Decision fatigue is real, but you don’t have to let it derail your organizing goals. By simplifying choices, working with your natural energy levels, and giving yourself grace, you can clear the clutter without burning out.

So, grab a trash bag, turn on your favorite playlist, and take it one decision at a time. Start small, trust yourself, and remember: every item you let go of is one step closer to a home that feels lighter and more peaceful.

Don’t forget — if you’re struggling with all those decisions, it may be time for us to work together! One of my specialties is helping you navigate ALL those decluttering decisions. Contact me for your free phone consultation and you’ll know if it’s right for you!

Happy Spring & Happy Organizing!

~Tami

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Setting Up Your New Home Like a Professional Organizer

A new home is an exciting fresh start — but moving into that home? The pits!

An experience that’s full of potential quickly becomes chaotic and stressful as you dig through boxes — trying to find something you ‘know is around here somewhere!’

Most people take months to unpack their new home. As a professional organizer, I often come across boxes in clients’ homes that are from a previous move — even if it was years ago!

Through our unpacking services, I’ve also seen how amazing it feels for clients to have their new homes completely set up within a week of the move.

Follow these tips if you’re ready for a clean slate in your new home.

Start with Essentials

Before you move, pack a box or two with your essentials — everything you need for the first 24-48 hours. Think toiletries, a change of clothes, medications, important documents, chargers, and basic kitchen items like a coffee maker and snacks. Having these necessities within easy reach will prevent frustration and allow you to settle in smoothly. Remember to pack your fur buddy’s essentials, too – food & treats.

Unpack by Priority

Rather than diving into random boxes, start unpacking the most frequently used items first. Start by setting up beds and stocking the bathroom with essentials (don’t forget the TP!).

Next, move on to the areas you need every day. Here’s a typical order, but do what works best for you.

  • Kitchen – Takeout is fun for a night or two, but getting your kitchen organized early makes it much easier to get back into your routine.
  • Bathrooms – Stocking the bathroom with towels, toiletries, and everyday essentials will help you feel settled quickly.
  • Living Spaces – Once the basics are handled, you can arrange furniture and décor to make your space feel cozy and inviting.
  • Closets – Organizing clothing and accessories right away prevents clutter buildup in other rooms.
  • Garage & Storage Areas – These can wait until the rest of the home is in order, but creating designated storage areas early on prevents future clutter.

Pro Tips

⭐ One of the hardest parts? Staying focused! Try your best to complete one space before moving on to another. You’ll build momentum once you begin seeing spaces come together rather than a little bit done in each room.

⭐ Break down and discard boxes as you go to clear the space.

Declutter as You Unpack

Moving is the perfect opportunity to reassess your belongings. As you unpack, ask yourself:

  • Do I use this regularly?
  • Does this item serve a purpose in my new home?
  • Does it bring me joy or hold sentimental value?

If an item doesn’t fit your current lifestyle or space, set it aside for donation or disposal. Write “DONATE” on an empty box to make it simple. The less clutter you unpack, the more streamlined and organized your home will be from the start.

Create Organized Systems from the Start

Unpacking isn’t just about getting items out of boxes—it’s about creating a functional, organized home. 

A system doesn’t have to be complicated. Hanging your keys on the same hook every day is a system. Tossing junk mail into the recycling before it hits the kitchen counter is a system. Keep things simple — this is the perfect time to set up your home how you’ve always wanted!

Here are some quick organizing tips:

  • Think about how you use the items and create homes for everything.
  • Label shelves and containers so everyone in the household knows where things belong.
  • Use drawer dividers and storage bins to maintain order in drawers and cabinets.
  • Adopt a ‘one in, one out’ rule to prevent future clutter from accumulating.
  • Place frequently used items in easily accessible spots and store seasonal or rarely used items in higher or lower spaces.

Take Breaks and Pace Yourself

Unpacking a whole house in a day (or even two or three!) is unrealistic and exhausting, unless you have a team of organizers!

Set achievable goals—one room at a time—and take breaks to avoid burnout. Play your favorite music, hydrate, and reward yourself for the progress you make!

Make Your New House Feel Like Home

Once the essentials are unpacked and systems are in place, add personal touches to make your home feel truly yours. Hang up photos, arrange décor, and introduce familiar scents with candles or diffusers so your new house feels like home.

Need Help with Unpacking?

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the unpacking process, hiring a professional organizer makes all the difference!

One of our biggest jaw-dropping moments is bringing a client into a freshly unpacked new home. They can’t believe how every single thing is exactly where they want it — down to their toothbrush!

I love getting you settled faster and creating a home that’s organized from the start.

Want to hear more about how it works? Contact us, and you’ll know if we’re a good fit after a quick chat.

Happy Organizing!

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How to Organize Holiday Decorations

It happens every year, yet the holiday season still seems to sneak up on us! Unfortunately, they’re over as quickly as they come and after the excitement and cheer are past, there’s always a big task looming — organizing holiday decorations.


This year, follow this 4-step guide to organize your holiday decorations and make next year so much easier! With a bit of planning, you can set yourself up for success.

Gather Your Supplies

When you’re armed and ready to organize, you’re more likely to finish with a job well done! Grab your supplies before you begin taking down your holiday decorations.

  • Boxes
  • Sticky Notes/Notepad & Pen
  • Permanent Marker
  • Containers (Don’t buy anything new yet!)
  • Label Maker (If you have one)

Now, let’s dive in!

Declutter Holiday Decor as You Go

A common misunderstanding is that professional organizers make you get rid of everything. In reality, we just ask you to consider how much you have and whether you truly want to keep things. It’s always up to you!

Declutter Holiday Decorations Now

With everything fresh in your mind, think seriously about how much holiday decor you want to keep for next year.

As you’re following our suggestions to get your holiday decorations organized, remember to ask yourself if you truly love an item. Was it a physical challenge to bring it out of storage and display the item? Be honest and realistic with yourself. Does it bring enough cheer to justify storing it for a year? Or is it functional? And again — functional enough to store for 365 days?

If so, great! We’ll be sorting the things you’re keeping in the next stage. If not, grab one of your empty boxes and write DONATE in a big permanent marker across the side. Collect donation items as you go.

Sorting Holiday Decor

When you’re sorting your holiday decorations, use boxes to group them into categories like DONATE, TRASH (anything broken), and KEEP.

Here are a couple of options for organizing the KEEP category.

Organizing Based on Location

Now that you’ve decluttered your holiday decorations, it’s time to sort them into categories based on where you use them around your home. This makes things so much easier for next year because you’ll have everything grouped together based on where they belong.

Organizing Based on Category

You may prefer to organize your holiday decorations based on category instead. This means all lights together, all greenery together, etc. If this feels right to you, then go for it! Just remember to label things based on location as you put them away so you’ll know where they go when you pull them out next year.

Storing Holiday Decor

“Fit your container to your items, rather than your items to the container!”

What do we mean? The most common mistake professional organizers see people make is when they buy all their storage containers before they assess how much they have.

After you’ve sorted your holiday decorations into categories, it’s time to see what types of containers you need. That’s why we say to fit your container to your items — otherwise, you may be trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. And we all know how that ends!

We love to help you reuse containers you already have, so we suggest you shop your home first. Collect the containers you have available and then see which ones work for your different categories.

Clear containers are our favorite because you can see what’s inside. But cardboard boxes work as a budget-friendly option — just be sure to clearly label the box on the top and at least one side.

Once you’ve contained your holiday decorations, be sure to label the containers so you can easily find things next year! Choose a location in your home to keep all containers together and store them with the labels facing out for quick reference.

Final Thoughts

Remember, organizing after the holidays is not only about putting things away but it’s also an opportunity to start the new year with a tidy and organized space. Take your time, involve family members if possible, and turn the process into a positive and productive experience so you can feel great in your home.

If you’re overwhelmed just reading this post, remember that we have holiday decluttering and organizing services. We can even do it all for you! Contact us to learn how it works.

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Stress-Free Holiday Prep: How to Organize Gifts, Decor, and More

It’s the same story every year…as the holiday season approaches, we dream of cozy evenings by the fireplace, quality time with family, and flawless festive events. But then, November and December arrive, and suddenly, we’re thrown into a tailspin of planning, prep, and stress! This year, since Thanksgiving is so late in November, there seems to be added pressure around the December holidays. There has to be a better way, right? Try a few of the following simple ways to get organized for the holidays.

Quick Pre-Holiday Decluttering

It’s hard to organize anything without decluttering first, but who has that kind of time during the holidays? That’s why a quick declutter is essential!

Here’s what I recommend:

  • Grab a trash bag for garbage and a box for donations.
  • Go from room to room and grab anything you know can go.
  • Get the family involved if possible!
  • Remind your family that to make space for new items, it’s time to let go of some old ones.

It’s also important to remember to declutter as you begin getting out your holiday decorations. When you can see everything in one place, it’s easier to realize that you may have more than you need. You may also notice a few items you no longer love, and this is a perfect time to donate them or let them go. This time of year, in my area, I think about the many “One Warm Coat” drives happening. You can donate new or gently used coats to local charities. It’s the perfect way to rehome your coats!

Organizing Holiday Decor

After you’ve done a quick declutter, it’s time to get out the holiday decorations! If you’re like most of my clients, each year, you haul out the boxes and grumble about the tangled jumble of items. You probably swear to yourself that this is the year you’ll get them organized. Then, January rolls around, and you’re in a rush, so everything gets dumped back in the boxes.

When it comes to organizing holiday decor, start by categorizing items into groups like lights, ornaments, wreaths, and garlands. Store each category in clear, labeled bins for easy identification, and consider using divided containers or padding for fragile items.

Take an extra few minutes to untangle and neatly wrap lights and garlands before storing them, which will save time and reduce frustration next year. For a more detailed approach to organizing your decorations, come back the first week of December -when I’ll drop my post Organize Your Holiday Decor in 4 Easy Steps.

Create a Holiday Command Center

Our brains are overloaded when the holidays arrive because we have a variety of schedules to juggle, tasks to complete, errands to run, and so. many. lists to keep track of. No wonder we begin missing details, and our stress level goes up.

Creating one space where you keep all the information improves your chances of maintaining everything. Choose something that works for your family, whether it’s a digital hub, a three-ring binder, or a small corner of your kitchen. 

After choosing a space for your holiday command center, use it to keep important lists, reminders, and schedules so everything you need is in one central location. Keeping track of holiday tasks, such as shopping lists, baking schedules, and party plans, becomes much easier when they’re all visible in one place.

Organized Gift Giving

A major contributor to holiday stress is trying to keep everything in your head. When you’re setting up your holiday command center, be sure to include a place for tracking gifts. Create a spreadsheet to note who’s receiving what, costs, and if the gift needs to be purchased, wrapped, or mailed. This helps you avoid forgetting anyone or accidentally double-gifting.

It’s also helpful to set up a dedicated gift-wrapping area. Stock it with essentials like wrapping paper, tape, scissors, gift tags, and ribbon. Keeping everything together saves time and prevents the dreaded search for missing tape or scissors right when needed.

Make a Holiday Bucket List with the Family

It’s always disappointing when the holidays are over, and you suddenly remember a favorite movie you forgot to watch or a community event you missed. Spend ten minutes during dinner asking the whole family for input on a family holiday bucket list and write it all down.

Remember to divide roles and responsibilities so they don’t all fall on your shoulders. Asking kids to look up events and adding them to the calendar helps them begin learning these skills while taking some of the pressure off you!

This ensures making the most of the holiday season, but it also helps organize plans so everyone knows what to expect.

Don’t Forget Your Holiday Self-Care

Psychologists recommend making time for relaxation and self-care to manage stress levels and maintain mental well-being during the holidays. Remember to schedule small moments for yourself, such as coffee breaks, short walks, or quiet reading time. Taking a few minutes each day to recharge can help prevent burnout during this busy season.

Wrapping Up

With thoughtful planning and organized systems, the holidays are joyful and less stressful. From setting up a command center to tracking gifts and creating a self-care routine, these organizational strategies can help you tackle the holiday season with ease. Remember, the goal isn’t perfection — it’s to create a holiday season that feels meaningful and joyful to EVERYONE, including you!

If you enjoyed this blog post, sign up for my newsletter for more tips and support!

Happy Holidays!!

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ADHD and Organizing: Tips For Tackling Clutter

If you or someone you love has ADHD, you know that trying to get organized may require a different approach. Tasks others may find routine — like keeping a tidy home, managing a schedule, or staying focused on a task — feel overwhelming. 

October is ADHD Awareness Month, and I wanted to provide a few actionable tips to make getting organized more manageable for people with ADHD.


If you are looking for a professional organizer specializing in ADHD, you can find one through the ICD (Institute for Challenging Disorganization) website or the NAPO (National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals) website.

  1. Start Small

People with ADHD often feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of tasks ahead of them, which can lead to procrastination. Start by breaking larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. For example, if organizing the entire house feels like too much, focus on just one room, one corner, or one drawer at a time.

Chunking tasks into 10-15 minute increments can help avoid burnout and build momentum. This can be applied to other areas of life, such as organizing paperwork or tackling a cluttered desk. By reducing a big task into bite-sized portions, you’re more likely to get started — and finish.

2. Use Timers

Setting a timer signals that there’s an end in sight when a project looks like it will loom on forever. By setting clear boundaries, timers also help reduce distractions and encourage a better understanding of how long tasks actually take.​ I do this many times during my day, in 30 minute chunks of time. That gives me time to focus and then get something done. When the timer goes off, if I feel like I’m in a rhythm, I go for another half hour. Before I know it, I’ve focused for 3 hours and gotten TONS done!

3. Create Designated Spaces for Essential Items

If you’re constantly frustrated by losing track of everyday items like keys, phones, and wallets, create a designated spot for these items. A hook by the front door for your keys and a small tray or bowl for your phone and wallet can help you create a habit of always returning items to the same place.

This simple strategy removes the need for your brain to remember where you put things, reducing stress and making it easier to leave the house on time.

4. Declutter and Simplify Your Space

Clutter is a major source of distraction for anyone, but it can be even more distracting for people with ADHD. Decluttering your home will remove excess distractions, but remember to start with small areas.


Using clear bins and labeling storage containers can make it easier to see what you have and where it belongs. This eliminates the “out of sight, out of mind” issue that many with ADHD face when things are tucked away in hidden places.

5. Be Compassionate with Yourself

It’s easy to fall into the trap of negative self-talk when things don’t go as planned or you feel frustrated. Remember, organizing is a skill that can be developed over time, and it’s okay if things don’t always go perfectly.

Allow yourself some flexibility and acknowledge the progress you’re making, no matter how small​.

6. Consider Professional Assistance

If organizing feels too overwhelming to manage alone, it might be worth considering help from a professional organizer specializing in ADHD.

These professionals can assist in decluttering, setting up systems, and creating organizational structures that work for you rather than against you. There are even virtual consultations available, allowing for help and advice from the comfort of your own home.​

It’s easy to feel discouraged if you’re trying to get organized with ADHD, but remember, it is possible! With the right information and support, you can manage the organizational challenges and make space in your brilliant mind for the things you truly love to do.

Resources for further support:

If you enjoyed this blog post, sign up for my newsletter for more tips and support.

Happy Organizing!

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How to Create a Household Emergency Plan & Kit

Here in California, we’ve once again had many fires and the fire season isn’t over yet. Several of my family members had to prepare for evacuation when the Park Fire was burning in Butte county. It burned nearly 430,000 acres and many homes – truly tragic. And as I’m writing this in October, the Southeast has been devastated by Hurricane Helene.

As a professional organizer, it probably doesn’t surprise you that I like to be prepared! I like knowing what to expect and planning ahead. But what about the unexpected? How can you prepare for the unknown? That’s what emergency preparedness is all about. 

September was National Preparedness Month, and while we all know it’s a good idea to prepare for potential disaster, it’s a pretty overwhelming concept. 

It may feel daunting, but like so much else, getting started is often the hardest part. So, let’s begin!

Understand Your Risks

Before you can make a plan or create an emergency kit, it’s important to identify the threats in your region so you can prepare accordingly. Natural disasters that come readily to mind are hurricanes, earthquakes, floods, and wildfires, but there are other potential risks to consider. Awareness is the first step!

Make A Plan

After you’ve assessed what kind of emergencies you should prepare for, it’s time to make an emergency plan. Your plan should include:

  • Meeting Places: Designate two meeting places where your family can regroup if separated. First, choose a location outside your home for a sudden emergency, such as a fire. Then, identify a place outside your neighborhood, like a school or church, in case you cannot return home or need to evacuate.
  • Emergency Contacts: Make a list of phone numbers for family members, friends, and emergency services. Save each number on cell phones, but don’t forget to make paper copies of the list and place them in children’s backpacks, family members’ purses or briefcases, your car, etc.
  • Evacuation Plan:  Identify where you would go if asked to evacuate. A hotel? A relative or family friend’s home? Nearby shelters and safe zones? It depends on the emergency, so having a few options is a good idea.

Quick Tip: Talk About Your Plan

Creating a plan is great, but discussing it with your family is often overlooked. Remember to sit down and get everyone on the same page. If you have young children, adjust your discussion accordingly, but share details as your kids get older. If you’re concerned it may worry your children, remember that they’ve probably thought about emergencies, and knowing you have a plan can ease their minds.

Create an Emergency Kit

A huge part of emergency preparedness is having the right supplies gathered for your emergency kit. It’s important to distinguish between supplies you may need for sheltering in place at home versus a smaller kit (aka “Go Bag”) to grab if you need to evacuate.

Essentials for a Basic Kit at Home

  • Water (one gallon per person per day for several days)
  • Non-perishable food for several days
  • Extra cell phone battery or charger
  • Battery-powered or hand crank radio that can receive NOAA Weather Radio tone alerts and extra batteries
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • First aid kit
  • Whistle to signal for help
  • Dust mask (to help filter contaminated air) – 1 for each family member
  • Plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter in place
  • Moist towelettes, garbage bags, and plastic ties for personal sanitation
  • At least two weeks of prescription medicines for each family member, including  a list with medicine name, dose, pharmacy name and number, and doctor’s name and number
  • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
  • Can opener (if kit contains canned food)
  • Local maps

Additional Items to Consider

  • Eyeglasses or extra contact lenses
  • Infant formula and diapers
  • Pet food, water, and supplies for your pet
  • Important family documents such as identification for each person (like social security cards, passports, driver licenses), copies of insurance policies, and bank account records in a portable waterproof container – *these are a MUST in a Go Bag*
  • Cash and change-small bills are best
  • Emergency reference material such as a first aid book
  • Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person
  • Complete change of clothing, including a long-sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes
  • Fire Extinguisher
  • Fire Blanket – in case your caught in a fire
  • Matches in a waterproof container
  • Feminine supplies, personal hygiene items, and hand sanitizer
  • Non-prescription medication like pain relievers, antacids, laxatives, etc.
  • Mess kits, Paper cups, plates and disposable utensils, paper towels
  • Books, games, puzzles, or other activities for children
  • Paper and pencil

Creating a Go Bag

If you have to leave your home quickly, it’s important to have a smaller version of your emergency kit to grab and go.

You’ll include most things on the essentials list, just on a smaller scale. You won’t have room for fifteen gallons of water, but having a few bottles or water purification tablets is a must. Comb through the lists and decide what to keep in your Go Bag.

Once you make a disaster plan and create your emergency kit, it’s important to check it every 6-12 months. You may need to rotate food, update contact information, or replace spare clothing for growing children. That’s why every September is a perfect time to revisit your emergency plan. After you’ve created the plan, simple maintenance will help you stay prepared.

Hopefully, you’ll never have to put all this planning and organizing into action, but if you do — won’t it feel great to be prepared? Being organized for emergencies involves more than just packing a kit; it’s about understanding risks, having a plan, and ensuring you’re ready to handle the unexpected. 

By understanding your risks, creating a family emergency plan, and preparing a disaster kit, you’ll be in a much better place to ensure that you and your loved ones are always ready.

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How Downsizing Can Help You Simplify Your Life

Downsizing Can Help Simplify Your Life

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the work you do around your home, you are not alone. Between maintenance, cleaning, landscaping, and the stuff inside your closets, cupboards, and cabinets, it’s easy for your home to feel more like a curse than a blessing. That’s why many seniors downsize their homes as they age. But downsizing isn’t just for seniors anymore!

Last month, I explained the steps for an organized move in the Poppy Jasper Organizing blog. But when you’re moving to downsize, there’s much more to consider.

Before making big changes, it’s important to consider a few things first. Below, we’ll discuss the benefits of downsizing, the emotional toll it can have, and a few tips for caring for older relatives during the downsizing process.

Why Downsize?

Simplified Lifestyle

Downsizing has many benefits, but the common thread is a simplified lifestyle. And as a professional organizer, you know I’m a big fan of that! When we simplify our homes and lives, we make space for what matters most.

Financial Savings

One of the most significant benefits of downsizing is cutting costs. A smaller home typically means lower mortgage payments, reduced property taxes, and decreased utility bills. For retirees living on a fixed income, these savings can provide much-needed financial relief, which leads to less stress.

Less Maintenance & Upkeep

The American dream of a large home, sprawling lawn, and white picket fence sounds nice, but in reality, it’s a lot of work!

A smaller home means less surface area to clean, repair, and organize. For seniors, community living is a great option. Many senior living communities offer maintenance services, which means tasks like lawn care and home repairs are taken care of for you.

Safety & Accessibility

A big benefit for downsizing seniors is increased safety and accessibility with single-story layouts, wider doorways, and other modifications. Reducing the risk of falling and other accidents gives seniors and their families peace of mind.

The Emotional Side of Downsizing

It’s especially overwhelming for seniors to downsize because they often face a lifetime’s accumulation of belongings and memories under one roof.

Most people need support sorting and decluttering their belongings, and a compassionate partner makes all the difference.

I understand the sensitive nature of downsizing and work well with seniors to manage the emotionally exhausting side.

A few things that help are taking frequent breaks, reminders to drink water and eat, and pausing when emotions run high.

It’s important to honor the memories and nostalgia that arise when sorting through the past. For more information about coping with the emotions of downsizing, read this article by the Elder Care Alliance.

Caring for Older Relatives During Downsizing

Adult children often help their aging parents downsize, which is bound to stir up emotions for everyone. Supporting someone from a long distance can create added stress. This checklist for caregivers from the Family Caregiver Alliance is a good starting point for getting your to-do’s in order.

Here are a few things I would recommend.

  • Finding in-person professional support. Long distance or not, you can reduce stress for everyone if you work with a senior move management professional. Contact me to learn more about my downsizing services.
  • Begin as soon as possible. If you aren’t rushed, start sorting and decluttering as early as possible. It takes longer than you think and requires compassion.
  • Get organized! No surprise here, but I definitely know you’ll save time and energy if you get organized in the beginning. Create a notebook or folder to keep all your checklists, contacts, and other important information. Gather supplies like boxes and packing materials. Keep an inventory of belongings as you sort through and pack them. You’ll thank your future self if you do these things beforehand!

Here’s an article from the National Institute on Aging for more tips and support in long-distance caregiving.

After reading this, your head may be swimming. Though downsizing is sometimes forced upon seniors for safety reasons, it’s also a lifestyle that more and more people are choosing. Can you imagine a life less encumbered by your belongings? What would you do with that freedom and renewed energy?

In the end, downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller space; it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports seniors’ changing needs and aspirations, allowing them to enjoy their golden years with peace of mind and dignity.

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5 Steps for Moving Like a Professional Organizer

5 Steps for Moving Like a Professional Organizer

Whenever moving comes up in conversation, it usually includes heavy sighs and overdone eye rolls. No one likes moving!

It’s often listed as one of the most stressful life events and it’s no wonder — we have a lot of stuff in our homes! Getting organized before your move can make things run more smoothly and eliminate a ton of stress. And because summer is peak moving season, I thought I’d share a few steps to make your next move easier.

Plan Ahead

As with anything, a little planning goes a long way. Imagine what can happen if you do a lot of planning!

A plan reduces moving stress because you know what to expect when things get busy.

  • Keep Your Information in One Place — Create a binder or folder to keep all information in one place. You’ll want a packing checklist, schedule (I recommend a block calendar – it’s easy to view your schedule at-a-glance), utility information, contact information, and more inside your binder.
  • Plan Your Time — Well before your moving date, use your calendar to work backward from your move day and create a general schedule. You’ll want to save packing things you use often for the days right before the move, but you can begin packing infrequently used items early. Decluttering before you start packing is essential. You’ll also want to call the utility companies before your move. Mark these timeframes on your calendar to stay on track.
  • Gather Supplies — Create a tote with labels, Sharpies, scissors, packing tape, and other supplies so you can find them easily. You’ll use these supplies when decluttering and moving. Begin collecting boxes so you aren’t scrambling at the end. Here are a few ideas for creating a moving kit.

Declutter Before the Move

No one wants to move extra stuff they no longer use, but when you’re feeling overwhelmed, the move date can come quickly, and you end up throwing everything in a box whether you need it anymore or not. That’s why the planning step helps so much.

Go room by room and declutter as quickly as you can. Open closets, look under beds — get as detailed as time allows, and be ruthless if you can! Moving is stressful because we realize how much we actually have when we begin pulling it all out. Use this time as motivation to let go of unused items by donating or selling them.

Packing

It’s time to grab your packing kit! Pack your home room by room, starting with the spaces you use least often. It’s ok to move to the next room once you’ve packed a room and only items you’re still using remain, but don’t mix items from different rooms in boxes. Keep rooms separate so the unpacking process can go much more smoothly.

  • Label everything! It may feel like overkill, but you’ll be thankful when you’re unpacking. List the room the box belongs in and a few notes on what’s inside. Label boxes on the top and side so you can see what they contain when they’re stacked.
  • Expert Tip! Use luggage to pack essential items you’ll need right away, like toiletries and clothes.

Moving Day

The day is finally here—try to enjoy the momentous occasion if you can!

  • Ask your movers to place boxes in their corresponding rooms to make unpacking easier.
  • Keep your moving binder accessible for any phone numbers or details you might need.
  • Celebrate! After everything is unloaded, take a moment to celebrate the move. A lot of hard work has led to this moment!

Unpacking

After the big day, it’s time to begin setting up your new home. The task can feel overwhelming but think of it as a way to arrange everything as you’ve always wanted.

  • Reverse Order. You’ll unpack everything in the reverse order in which you packed it. Begin by unpacking your essentials, and then move on to the next most frequently used items. When I unpack for clients, I start in the kitchen.
  • Organize as You Go. Group like things together, create zones, and label!

Describing how to organize each portion of your home requires multiple blog posts but use this as a reminder to organize as you settle into your new space. You’ll thank your future self later!

Remember, moving doesn’t have to be as stressful as everyone thinks. You can do this!

Ready for some hands-on support? If all this sounds like more work than you’re willing to take on, contact us to learn about our downsizing and unpacking services. We can take all of this off your plate!