How Clutter Can Be a Symptom of Underlying Issues Like Hoarding, ADHD, or Depression
Clutter isn’t just about untidiness — it can be a sign of something deeper. For many, disorganization and clutter are part of daily life. But in some cases, it can point to more serious mental health considerations like hoarding disorder, ADHD, or depression. Understanding these connections can help families approach clutter in a way that […]
The Role of Clutter in Family Conflict and Communication Breakdowns
Clutter: The Unseen Catalyst of Household Tension Clutter, often dismissed as a mere inconvenience, plays a more significant role in household dynamics than most realize. It’s not just about the mess itself; clutter can act as a silent catalyst for tension, escalating everyday stressors into more profound conflicts. When the environment is chaotic, it reflects […]
How Clutter Causes Stress and Strains Family Relationships: Simple Solutions for a Peaceful Home
Clutter is more than just a nuisance in our homes — it has a significant impact on our mental and emotional well-being. This became clear to me one morning when our cramped entryway, overflowing with coats, shoes, and backpacks, turned an already hectic start into a full-blown family argument. The clutter was the spark that […]
The Hidden Impact of Clutter on Family Dynamics: An Introduction to Our Multi-Part Series
As a professional organizer, I’ve witnessed firsthand the profound effects of clutter on families. But it wasn’t until I experienced it personally that I truly understood the depth of its impact. My family – two kids, a dog, and my partner – made a conscious decision to live in a small house. We wanted to […]
3 Lessons from ‘Simplicity Parenting’
As a parent and professional organizer, I often find myself returning to trusted resources for inspiration and guidance. One such gem is ‘Simplicity Parenting’ by Kim John Payne and Lisa M. Ross. Though it was published back in 2009, its timeless wisdom resonates deeply with me. In my recent re-reading, I was struck anew by […]
Embracing Change: Navigating the Challenges of Downsizing in Canada’s Aging Population
In recent years, a significant demographic shift has taken place in Canada: for the first time, seniors outnumber children (5.9 million Canadians over 65 versus 5.8 million 14 and under). This change raises important questions about living arrangements, particularly the transition from larger family homes to smaller spaces. With an aging population and declining fertility […]
Desk-tination: Your Journey to a Personalized Workspace Wonderland
The Corporate Canvas Envision the archetypal corporate office – rows upon rows of cubicles, each a mirror image of the next, bathed in a palette of greys and beiges. In this world of uniformity, attempts at injecting life are often but a whisper: a motivational poster trying too hard to inspire, a potted plant yearning […]
Deciding When to Hire a Professional Organizer
In today’s fast-paced world, the challenge of maintaining an organized home is a common struggle. While many of us believe we should handle it ourselves, there are times when seeking professional help isn’t just a luxury, but a sensible choice for a better life. To decide whether to hire a professional organizer, you need to […]
Cultivating Equanimity: Harmonizing Space and Mind
In the journey of personal development, the ancient concept of equanimity emerges as a guiding light. This state of mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in difficult situations, is not just a lofty ideal but a practical skill to cultivate. At its core, equanimity is about finding balance and maintaining a steady mind […]
Ease Into Decluttering: The Joy of Little Triumphs
Ever feel like your home is a few stray socks away from being featured on a clutter-crisis reality show? Fear not, my fellow clutter-busters! The secret sauce to a clutter-free life is to start small and stay happy. Let’s turn that daunting mountain into a delightful molehill with some super doable projects. Drawer Zen: Your […]