Organize A Joyful Holiday Season

We have arrived to the whirlwind season of so many things to do. The decorating, cooking, entertaining guests, shopping, and yet another event to attend can feel like a juggling act. It can be easy to lose sight of the joy when you are buried in a mountain of wrapping paper and working with a packed calendar. We affectionately refer to this season as the most wonderful time of year. With a little planning and focus on what truly matters, it can be. Let’s dive into the ways you can organize a joyful holiday season!

4 Ways To Find The Holiday Magic

Make You & Yours A Priority

Give some thought to what an enjoyable holiday looks like for you and your family. Whether it’s baking holiday treats, game night in your pajamas or a ride around town to take in all of the twinkling holiday lights, carve out time for these things. If hosting a festive family gathering is something you enjoy, do that. Let your family priorities guide you as you decide where to place your energy and focus. The best memories will be made in the company of those you cherish most!

tips to organize the holiday season, professional organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

Simplify All The Things

From the decorating to the gifts to the holiday meal, simplify your plans and goals. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect, and we all know perfection isn’t really an attainable goal. Every corner of your home doesn’t have to be decorated. Every dish you make doesn’t have to be homemade. Reduce your stress and free up your time by simplifying all of these things. Less “work” can lead to more time for joy and laughter. Let go of the pressure of perfection.

tips to organize the holiday season, professional organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

Delegate For The Win

Holiday prep is not a one-person show. Make it a team event! Share the responsibilities with your family. Have everyone work together on the holiday plan. This can help everyone see how much work it actually is. Your partner can help with hanging lights, shopping or preparing the meal. Put the kids to work; assign age appropriate tasks like decorating or wrapping gifts. If you are hosting the family for a meal, have everyone bring a dish. This will not only lighten your load, but will bring everyone together in the spirit of the season.

The Power Of No

This time of year often comes with endless invitations and obligations. Yes, we enjoy spending time with our friends and family, but we simply can’t do it all. The secret to a joyful season is knowing it’s ok to decline invitations to events you don’t have time for or a desire to attend. If you would rather have an evening at home with your family instead of going to a cookie exchange party, that’s ok! Saying no isn’t wrong or selfish. It’s the best way to give yourself a little breathing room this season! 

tips to organize the holiday season, professional organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

You deserve to enjoy the magic of the holiday season. Plan intentionally and let go of unnecessary stress. Find time for relaxation and fun. Put down the to-do list and be present in the moment, whether you’re enjoying time with loved ones or taking in a quiet moment for yourself. Create a holiday experience that is fulfilling and joyful for you!

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Decluttering Sentimental Items Without Guilt

Items in our homes that hold sentimental value, reminding us of a time or place or person that may be gone, can be very hard to part with. It’s fully understandable. We all struggle with parting with the cherished memories these items hold. Keeping a few items that we love and have a special connection with is great. The problem occurs when our sentimental items are piling up and causing clutter. We have talked about the mental impact that clutter can have. Couple that with the guilt and frustration you may feel in being surrounded by all the sentimental items, and you may be truly unsure of how to tackle that decluttering project. We are sharing our best strategies to help you navigate letting go while still honoring and feeling that attachment to these items.

Understanding Sentimental Clutter

Before diving into the decluttering process for your sentimental items and keepsakes, it’s important to consider why you are holding on to the items in the first place. They likely evoke a range of strong emotions and feelings for you. Assess the true value of each item. Ask yourself if the item serves a purpose or brings you joy. It’s normal to feel guilt when you are deciding to let things go. Keep in mind that you are not erasing the good moment or memory attached to the item. Decluttering is a necessary process. You are clearing out and creating an open and organized space for new experiences and memories.

professional organizer tips to help declutter sentimental items, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

5 Ways to Let Go

Consider the memory attached to the item over the actual item. Take a moment to think about the memory the object connects you to or reminds you of. If the item reminds you of a person, write down the memory or story. This will help you find value in the memory itself over the object. 

Set limits on how many sentimental items you are willing to keep. Find a place for them in your home and designate this the keepsake corner. Setting boundaries will allow you to be more selective in what you choose to keep. It’s a great way to keep only what truly means something to you.

Go digital and take photos of your special items. If the thought of not seeing the item anymore is too much, taking a picture can work well for you. You can create a special album for sentimental keepsakes. These photos will be safely stored away for you to revisit whenever you need or want to. 

Upcycle to breathe new life into your items. If you have clothing or blankets filled with memories, create a blanket or pillow. You get to keep the item and the memory, all while creating something you can use. So instead of being tucked away, they can be on display.

Share the item with someone who can use or treasure it. You may find it easier to let go of an item if you know the person it’s going to will appreciate it as you do. You may have family members with limited items from the family who would love to have something to cherish from the past.

professional organizer tips to help declutter sentimental items, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

One of the most important things to remember as you work to declutter sentimental items is to grant yourself time and grace. It’s a difficult process and it’s okay to take your time to work through all the memories attached to the items, especially those from significant life events and losses. If you aren’t ready to part with certain things, be gentle with yourself. Tuck it away to revisit another time. You don’t have to  declutter all at once. Every small step will make a big difference for your physical space along with your mental and emotional clarity.

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Think Big for Small Spaces

Living in a small space can feel a little…well tight. If you feel like you are in a constant state of “Where did I put that?”, you may be feeling frustrated with your space. When you have limited square footage to work with, it can be easy for clutter to creep in. Just because your space is cozy doesn’t mean it has to be cramped. Whether you are needing to maximize your closet space, find a way to store items or simply want a little more wiggle room, we’ve got you covered! Let’s dive into some space saving organizing strategies you can implement in your space.

storage and organizing solutions for small spaces, professional organizer, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

Think Vertical

When it comes to organizing a small space, you have to think past the floor space. Look up and use that wall space to creatively store your items. This goes a long way in helping to keep the floors clear and your surfaces clutter free.

  • Shelves can be installed above doors or above furniture that sits against the wall
  • Hooks are perfect for hanging bags, utensils or towels
  • Tall bookcases can work well to both display and store items

Double Duty Furniture

Furniture with built in storage gives you space to store with style! If you are working with less space, opt for multifunctional pieces that both serve its intended purpose and provide a secret spot to tuck things away. 

  • Storage ottomans for blankets, books and toys
  • Beds with built-in drawers for stowing away seasonal clothing or extra bedding
  • Coffee tables with compartments for magazines, remotes and other living room essentials
storage and organizing solutions for small spaces, professional organizer, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

Hello Corners

Don’t let that valuable corner space sit empty. Let your corners shine and help you make the most of every inch of space. Corners are prime spots to help organize your small space.

  • Corner shelves for displaying and storing your items
  • Corner baskets for toys, blankets and other random items
  • Corner desk can work great to maximize your workspace

Creative Storage

Some of the  best storage solutions just need a little imagination. Think of spaces that, with the right storage solutions, can really help you take advantage of the otherwise unused space.  

  • Backs of doors using organizers or hooks for a variety of items
  • Under the bed for linens, luggage or anything you need a little extra space for
  • Decorative storage boxes can add to your decor while storing your stuff

A small space doesn’t mean you have to have clutter. All you need is a plan with a side of creativity to optimize your storage and create an organized space you will love to hang out in! Don’t forget to declutter regularly and only keep what you need and use to keep the amount of things you have to store and organize under control.

If you need a hand organizing your small space, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Prepping Your Home for Holiday Guests

Ho ho ho – here comes the holidays and the holiday guests! The holidays certainly snuck up on me, too… Family time is great with all the catching up, laughs and love. If you are the holiday host, you may be starting to feel a bit of overwhelm along with your excitement. It’s ok! We are here to help you prep your home like a pro. All you need is a little time and planning to get your home holiday ready to welcome your guests with a real smile, not the stressed out, fake smile…

professional organizer tips to prep your home for holiday guests, Organized Jill Winston-Salem, NC

6 Ways to Get Your Home Guest Ready

1. Declutter High Traffic Areas

Place your focus on the areas in your home that your guests will see and use the most. Think living room, kitchen and guest rooms. Clear out any unnecessary items to make the spaces open and inviting. You can place personal items in bins or baskets and tuck them away until the holidays are over. Your guests are bound to bring their things right? Let’s give them some room to really feel comfortable during their stay.

2. Create a Cozy Guest Area

This may be a separate room or maybe the couch. You may not have a designated guest room, and that’s ok! Make sure they have clean, fresh linens to sleep on. Clear out some closet and drawer space if possible for them to tuck their things in. If you don’t really have the extra space, set up a luggage stand or provide a clear area for suitcases. Keeping your guests’ items organized and out of the way helps you and them!.

professional organizer tips to prep your home for holiday guests, Organized Jill Winston-Salem, NC

3. Optimize Your Kitchen

The kitchen is a hot spot during the holidays and adding more people into the home gets it even hotter. You will need more free space. Start by clearing off your countertops, tucking away anything that isn’t needed or used often, like small appliances. Declutter and organize your fridge and pantry. Take inventory of what you have and might need…. make sure you don’t already have 5 open jars of pumpkin pie spices. These areas are about to be home to a ton of holiday ingredients and food. Yes, the leftovers are about to take over. Make room now to avoid clutter and disorganization when your house is full.

4. Refresh the Bathroom

The bathroom will also be a highly used area while you are hosting your guests. Make sure it’s clean and well stocked with essentials like toilet paper, hand soap and towels. Don’t overthink it. You don’t have to have color coordinated towel sets. Fresh and functional is the goal here. Fill a basket with toiletry essentials in case your guests forget their razor or toothpaste. 

5. Ready the Entryway

As your guests enter your home, your entryway can quickly become a cluttered drop zone. Stay in front of this by prepping the area ahead of time. Remove any unnecessary personal belongings, like your four pairs of shoes that hang out there. This will help open the space for your guests coats, shoes and bag. Think about the potential for wet weather and have a mat or special area for wet shoes or umbrellas. 

6. Holiday Vibes

If you go all out decorating for the holidays and this makes you happy, go for it! If it’s really not your thing that’s ok too. A simple door wreath, a bowl of ornaments and a few holiday pillows can give your home that cozy holiday feel. Even just a scented plug in can make the day shine and feel like the holidays. You can add some lights and holiday tunes to really set the mood. Sometimes less can really be more and it’s less to clean up later. 

professional organizer tips to prep your home for holiday guests, Organized Jill Winston-Salem, NC

Hosting for the holidays can be stressful. Remember that the holidays are about spending time with your favorite people and soaking up all the love and laughter. It’s really not about having a perfectly organized and spotless house. Your guests are there to see you, not judge your home. Prep as much as you can, take a deep breath and enjoy your company and holidays!

If you need a hand prepping your home for holiday guests, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

400 Professional Organizers Walk Into A Room

Mixing & Mingling

In September, I had the pleasure of attending the HT:Summit; one of the largest (and most fabulously hot pink and orange) Professional Home Organizers conference in Austin, Texas. It was truly the who’s who of Home Organizers. Women (and a handful of gentlemen) from across the country, (and from a few other countries) descended on the Lone Star state for a weekend of learning, connection, adventures, and the most Instagram-able three days I have ever seen. 

Upon arrival at the airport, I quickly reunited with my “organizing bestie” from Orlando. She and I had met years before in a business coaching group and have always kept each other on track and motivated throughout the years. Together, we navigated through the airport, picked up our rental car, and made our way to a “boujie” area of town where the conference hotels are in The Domain; an upscale walking district with shops, restaurants, hotels, and all kinds of sights and sounds. 

A few hours later, our organizer friends from Palm Springs arrived and we were able to meet them in person for the first time after months of zoom calls and texts.  As the hours passed, groups of organizing friends reunited in the hotel lobby and later at the meet-and-greet cocktail party. Women who had met at previous conferences, women who only knew each other online, and some who were there all by their lonesome, bravely introducing themselves. If you have ever attended a professional conference, you know that it can be a challenge to approach a group of people and join the conversation, especially when the conversation is so loud that it is hard to hear anything at all. 

Video Credit: Home + Sort

Right then and there, I was in the room with some of the biggest names in Home Organization. Women who run multi-million dollar organizing teams up and down the California coast; women with tv shows and product lines, women who have organized for a slew of celebrities; women whose businesses I have looked up to and admired while building and growing my own business jumped off the phone screen and into real life in a sea of hot pink dresses and orange business casual pant suits. What can I say, we’re an on-theme dressed group. When I say that I was a little intimidated and overwhelmed, that would be an understatement. 

When we were leaving the cocktail party with our swag bags, we ran into a few gals outside. One who asked me, “Are you Organized Jill?”. I answered, “You know me?! Oh my goodness.” I was absolutely shocked that anyone besides my small group of organizer friends knew who I was. When she told me her name, I remembered that we had connected online years ago, and it was such a delight to meet her in person. There are definitely times when I have a little bit of face blindness and it can take me a minute to connect faces to names. 

professional organizer conference, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

Getting Down to Business

The next morning, we jumped right into business with presentations from our hosts (Home + Sort based in California), a presentation from the CEO of Erin Condren (planners, stationery products, and all things organization), and a presentation about implementing technology and systems. The more I listened and absorbed, I could feel the imposter syndrome that I had long since parted ways with try to creep in. In the back of my mind, intrusive thoughts whispered, “What was I thinking quitting my job (4 years ago…)? What business did I have being here? I’ve made a huge mistake thinking I can run a business.” 

I had to quickly brush away those thoughts to remember that I had worked non-stop for the last four years to build my business and have had the privilege to help hundreds of people transform their homes. I had to remember the actual blood, sweat, tears, and sleepless nights that went into growing my business. After a few moments of uncertainty, I regrouped and refocused while taking all sorts of notes for two straight days. 

By mid-day, we were ushered to outside tables to get a little fresh air and have time to make new connections. I spoke with dozens of women, small business owners all with a spark and dream. Organizers from all over the country, running all different businesses. Everyone from luxury home organizers, to organizers who focus on neurodivergent clients, senior downsizing specialists, corporate relocation directors, organizers who are also interior designers, photo organization specialists, paper organization lovers, and everyone in between. People who are solo- organizers, ones who have small teams in their cities, and ones who orchestrate large teams in multiple cities and states. 

And as I listened to women from New Jersey, Iowa, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Ohio, Florida, California, Kansas, and beyond speak, I realized that even though we all started our businesses for the love of Home Organization, that our personalities,  beliefs, methodologies, results, business goals and sizes, were all SO different. 

My Why for My Clients

professional home organization services, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

It made me think about my clients and their personalities and what had made us a good fit, why they had been drawn to me. Was it because in a room full of Type A’s that I am a Type B? Did that message come across on my website? Did my passion for color-coded closets and happy pantries resonate with my audience? Did my delightful small team look like nice people who they’d want in their homes folding their underwear drawers? Did my clients know that they could feel safe with me in their most vulnerable states? Did my clients feel reassured that I personally would be there in their homes, at every organizing session, right by their side to help them through the decision-making process? What message did I want to continue to spread or change, what connections did I want to seek out upon my return to North Carolina. 

One of the most important pieces of all the information that I absorbed over the weekend was that there is no one “right” way to run an organizing business. There were 400 people in the room all running 400 vastly different businesses. What was most important is that I stay true to who I am, be myself, focus on my own business, and help my clients achieve their home organization goals. 

I realized that I just need to continue to focus on providing services that make my heart sing, the things I was put on this earth to do (organizing closets, kitchens, pantries, playrooms, and garages…. with the occasional custom closet design & installation so I can use my power tools and feel super empowered) and not worry about what other folks are doing. 

Running a small business is not for the faint-of-heart or thin skinned. I am celebrating all the fears that I have overcome to get where I am today. I am in the homestretch of the end of year 4 in my business and I am looking at year 5 with a rejuvenated spirit and a happy heart. And I am wishing a final farewell to any residual imposter syndrome, kicking doubt to the curb, and going to keep on going.  

If you need a hand decluttering & organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Gift or Burden? Organizer’s Guide to Gifting

Giving gifts is a thoughtful way to express how much you appreciate and care for someone. It’s a fun way to celebrate special occasions and big moments in life. You expect the recipient to be full of joy to receive your gift, right? There are times when what we intend to be a thoughtful gesture can actually be a burden. Have you ever received a gift that really isn’t something you want or need? Of course you are appreciative of the thoughtfulness, but it’s not really something you would have purchased for yourself. In my role as a professional organizer, I often see well-intentioned gifts turn into clutter. This creates stress and a mess for the recipient. They don’t really want it, but feel guilty about letting it go. With the holiday gift giving season approaching, let’s talk about gift options that are clutter free, but still meaningful and fun!

professional organizers guide to gift giving to avoid clutter, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

5 Pre-Gifting Considerations

  1. What do they like– Think about the person’s tastes, interests and needs. Giving a little thought to your purchase helps you give something they will actually like and shows you put some effort into your choice.
  2. Is it useful– Most people will really appreciate a practical gift they can use in their home. Try to think of something that will make their day to day a little easier or more enjoyable. 
  3. Is it too personal– Unless you are super close to the person, it’s best to avoid Items like clothing and personal care products. The chances of you getting their preferred scent or size right can be slim.
  4. No obligations– Make sure the person knows you are totally fine with them exchanging or even re-gifting the gift if it’s not their favorite thing. No hard feelings. Bonus points if you include the gift receipt! 
  5. What do you want– It’s ok, likely even best practice, to ask the receiver what they want. It’s a great method to make sure they will like what they get. Make sure they give you a few choices to keep the element of surprise.

4 Physical Gift Alternatives

Now let’s talk about physical gift alternatives. Yes, there are many options to show someone you care without buying them something that may end up in their donation or trash pile. Here are a few of my favorite gifts that don’t create clutter or become a burden.

Experiences over Things

So many options with this one! Think escape room, concert tickets, a cooking class, spa day, dinner out, winery tour, or a weekend getaway to name just a few. Not only do they get a gift, but they get the opportunity to make memories with someone they care about. That’s like a super gift right?

Consumable Gifts

Gifts that can be used up while the receiver gets to enjoy it, then it’s gone. Think food baskets or trays, an assortment of sweet treats, their favorite drink, or homemade goodies. This is an excellent way to show you care without adding clutter to their home. 

professional organizers guide to gift giving to avoid clutter, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

The Gift of Time

Planning a “gift” of spending time together can truly mean so much. You could also offer your time as a gift to help with a project, babysitting, or running errands. If your loved one is super busy, this will mean so much and show how much you care for them.

Gift Cards

Gift cards aren’t impersonal, they are freedom! They offer the recipient the opportunity to choose something they truly want or need. They can find the perfect gift that fits into their life. And they are super easy to pick out. Win, win!

professional organizers guide to gift giving to avoid clutter, Organized Jill Winston Salem, NC

With a little thought and care, you can make sure your presents are always happily received and cherished. By getting creative and putting a little thought into what your recipient really likes or needs, your gift is likely to enhance their life without adding unnecessary clutter. After all, a gift should never feel like a burden!

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing unwanted gifts (and more), we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

The Effects of Clutter on Children

We all want the best for our kids. We strive to give them the love, support and tools they need to be their best self. To this end, we may unknowingly be doing them a disservice by creating an environment with too much stuff. Clutter, which may seem like it wouldn’t really impact a child, can actually have profound negative effects on their behavior, emotions and cognitive development. Let’s explore the impact of clutter on children and ways we can help them create an organized environment.

5 Ways Clutter Impacts Children

effects of clutter on children, professional home organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

1. Cognitive Overload

When a child is surrounded by too much visual and physical clutter, it can make it difficult for them to focus and concentrate. If they are trying to get their homework done in a room with toys and books scattered everywhere, they will likely be distracted and struggle to stay on task.

2. Increased Stress and Anxiety

The constant visual noise created by clutter can overwhelm a child, making them feel out of control. This can cause feelings of stress and anxiety, emotions they likely don’t know how to handle or deal with well. These feelings can make it difficult for them to relax or focus.

3. Decreased Creativity

A child’s mind is a wonderful playground of imagination. While getting creative can lead to a little mess, excessive clutter can actually stifle their creativity. If a child is playing in a cluttered space, they may struggle to create new, imaginative ideas.

4. Poor Social Skills

If your child feels embarrassed by the clutter and disorganization in their home, they will be less likely to want to invite friends over. They may struggle with finding excuses or ways to explain this to their close friends. This can affect their social development and may lead them to feel isolated from their peers.

5. Behavioral Issues

Living in a cluttered environment can contribute to behavioral problems. A child who is experiencing heavy emotions like irritability or frustration may not know how to handle those feelings. This lack of structure and order may cause them to misbehave and act out.

effects of clutter on children, professional home organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

Strategies to Develop Organization Skills

1. Lead by Example

Children can learn so much from watching you. Show them how you organize your things, whether it’s decluttering a drawer, planning a grocery list or putting away laundry. Involve them in your processes and encourage them to contribute their thoughts and ideas.

2. Organize Their Space

Help children declutter their rooms. Help them understand the concept of clutter and the benefits of having less stuff in their room. Let them decide what to keep, donate and discard. Help them organize and label their bins, shelves and drawers to help them know where things belong.

3. Consistent Schedule 

Establish a daily routine that includes regular times for homework, chores, and bedtime. Be sure to add their “free” time to the schedule. This will help them understand the expectations and be better able to get all the things done in a timely manner.

4. Get Visual 

Work with your kids to create checklists and charts for daily tasks. Use pictures or stickers for younger children to make it fun and easy to follow. Have your older children add their activities and important reminders to the calendar themselves. This will help them learn how to plan ahead and be accountable.

5. Bring Your Patience

Learning the art of being organized takes time. Your child may need gentle reminders and positive reinforcements to help them develop these habits. Consistency is the key to your success!

effects of clutter on children, professional home organizer, Organized Jill, Winston Salem NC

Children thrive on routine and predictability. Working with your child to declutter and organize their spaces (and other areas in the home) will teach them so many good life skills. By teaching these skills in a supportive and engaging way, you will help them learn to embrace an organized lifestyle.

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Finding Joy in Living with Less

Have you seen the underconsumption core “trend” all over your social media feed? Although underconsumption is certainly not a new idea, it is gaining traction and awareness thanks to social media. As a professional home organizer, this trend speaks to my minimalist heart (and is super soothing to watch the videos)! It falls right in line with all the things I teach my clients about ~ less stuff for a happier mind and home. Let’s explore this trend and find ways you can implement positive underconsumption changes in your home.

What Is Underconsumption Core?

Essentially the concept of underconsumption core is using what you already have until it is truly worn out, and resisting the “need” or desire to buy more stuff. Thrifting is also a key element of this movement; finding treasures to give new life to that have been discarded by someone else who no longer needed the item. There is also the aspect of reusing or repurposing items in your home that would normally be quickly and easily trashed. This not only helps you get the most bang for your buck, but also greatly impacts the reduction of waste on our environment.

One thing to also be aware of, however, is to create a boundary for how many items you are saving to also keep your clutter in check. It is very easy for one upcylced jar from spaghetti sauce to quickly become 37 upcycled jars that now all need a spot to live.

3 Ways to Reduce Your Consumption

Know What You Have

organizers guide to underconsumption core, organized jill professional home organizer winston salem nc

Getting the most use out of the items you have already purchased is one of the best ways to reduce your consumption. Keep using and wearing your clothes and shoes as long as they are in good condition. Create a capsule wardrobe with good quality, versatile pieces you can mix and match into many different outfits. Skip the fast fashion which never fits quite right in favor of a better quality item that will last a lot longer. This not only saves money, but it also allows you to keep your closets organized with less unnecessary clutter. Use this same concept with your kitchen items and kids clothes and toys.

If you have clothes, kitchen gadgets or toys that are still in good condition, but you no longer need or want, consider donating them rather than throwing them away. You could also plan a swap party with friends and mix and match clothes and other household items with each other. 

Pro-tip ~ Decluttering and organizing your closets, pantry, playrooms and other areas of your home will help you know what you have. Taking inventory of your possessions with a grateful mindset can help reduce the urge to have more.

Creative Repurposing

organizers guide to underconsumption core, organized jill professional home organizer winston salem nc

Who doesn’t love a good DIY project? Take that reusing mindset to all the areas of your home. Find fun ways to repurpose items that you would normally throw away. You can use pasta sauce jars or other glass jars as storage solutions for items in the pantry or bathroom. You can transform plastic containers into a herb garden. Tin cans are great for storing pens and other office supplies. Cut old t-shirts into cleaning rags. These are great for dusting. There are so many ways you can repurpose items to prolong their life and keep a few items out of the trash.

When it comes to larger items and electronics, consider the cost effectiveness of having the item repaired instead of replaced. It may be likely that there is a repair resource close to you that can help you mend the broken item. Not only are you saving money and reducing waste, you are also supporting your local community.

Pro-tip ~ Incorporate the whole family in your repurposing project. Encourage them to think outside of the box to find solutions for the use of an item. This can make for a fun, creative and maybe even competitive family event!

Buying with Intention

Be thoughtful and deliberate with your purchasing decisions. For consumable items like food, take stock of what you already have and create a menu to go with those ingredients. Then create a list of what needs to be purchased, along with a budget. Next comes the hard part, stick to your list and budget! Feeding ourselves and our families is a necessity, but there are ways you can reduce the amount of food you purchase and let’s face it, ultimately waste. For more on this topic check out our “Organizers Guide to Reduce Food Waste.”

When it comes to other types of purchases, it may be helpful to consider if the item is truly necessary or is it an impulse purchase. Ask yourself if this item is going to add value to your home or life. Is it going to solve a problem and be useful or end up in the trash or donation box in a month? Use this approach for items like clothes, shoes, toys and kitchen gadgets.

Pro-tip ~ Give yourself a “waiting period” before making purchases for “wants”. For example, wait 24 hours before buying the item. This time can help you really decide if you need the item or if it was in fact an unnecessary impulse buy.

organizers guide to underconsumption core, organized jill professional home organizer winston salem nc

The underconsumption core is a trend we can all get behind and turn into a lifestyle. Embracing what you have and being mindful and deliberate in your purchasing choices can also help you reduce clutter and maintain an organized home. The benefits, both physical and mental, to a home and life with less stuff is huge. Read more about the mental and emotional effects of the “Power of Decluttering”.

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Declutter & Organize for Back to School Success

Summer break is quickly coming to a close, and it’s time to begin prepping for the new school year. This can be both an exciting and overwhelming time for you and your kids. It can be hard to say goodbye to the laid back days of summer. The time off likely led to overall disorganization in your kid’s room, play areas, and maybe even throughout the home. Clutter is a normal side effect of summer break. As you begin to prepare for a new school year, helping your kids create a clutter-free, organized environment, especially in their personal spaces can set the stage for academic success and personal growth. We are sharing our top tips to reset your nest and get the kids’ room organized for the school year ahead.

4 Steps to Declutter & Organize Kids’ Rooms

Step 1: Work With Your Child

Involving your kids in the process of decluttering and organizing their things is essential to teaching them important life skills. It helps them have a sense of control and requires them to use decision making skills when choosing what to keep, donate and trash. They will also likely gain more responsibility in caring for their belongings and space if included in the process.

You can add a little excitement to make this more fun and interesting for your child. Use a timer to see how much they can get done in a certain amount of time. Most kids’ love a good challenge and will work hard to win!

Step 2: Sort & Categorize

Decluttering the room is the best first step to organization. Have your keep, donate and trash boxes ready to be filled. When sorting their clothes and shoes, place anything that doesn’t fit or no longer suits their style in the donate or trash box. Once this process is done, you will have a better idea of what is needed when back to school shopping.

When sorting the books and toys, encourage your child to let go of anything that they don’t enjoy playing with or have outgrown. Have them help decide where to take their donations. There are many schools and organizations that can get great benefit from gently used toys and books.

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Step 3: Organized Storage Solutions

Now that you have decluttered and only have the keep items remaining, it’s time to organize. Creating and using storage systems will not only help to get organized, but will be imperative to helping your kid stay organized. Labeled baskets and bins are great for small toys and art supplies. Use shelves for books and decorative items.

In the closet, group similar clothing items together – pants, shirts, etc. Have hanging clothes within reach for your child. Use those labeled baskets and bins for accessories or folded clothing. Don’t forget to use vertical storage, and even the inside of closet doors if needed, to maximize the space. Not only will this help keep the closet looking great, but will help your kid get ready each morning with little hassle and stress.

Step 4: Maintenance Schedule

The key to really making all this hard work pay off for you and your kids is to create a routine to regularly maintain the organization. Pick a time in the evening to have a quick 10 minute cleanup. Keep the time consistent, for example after homework is finished or before dinner. Setting clear expectations can really help your child. Have them place all items in their clearly designated homes they helped create. This will keep the room clean and clutter free, while allowing for an organized fresh start to their day each morning.

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Pro-organizer Tip

Have a designated “drop zone” for all daily items needed for school like their book bag, jacket, and shoes. Make returning these items to their proper place part of the evening clean up routine. No one wants to start their day off searching for a missing shoe when it’s time to leave, right?

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.

Balancing Minimalism & Organization

Our daily lives are cluttered not only with possessions but with commitments and distractions. This overload can really be a burden, not only in our physical space but in our mental space as well. Over 20% of Americans currently rent self storage units, with an additional 15% planning to do so in the future. This costs an average of $100 per month per household. Why do we hold on to so many things that we aren’t even using? Through minimalism and organization,  we can work toward simplifying our lives by creating order and harmony.

Minimalist Mindset

Most people equate minimalism to living with less of all the things – possessions, commitments and distractions. While this is true to a point, it’s important not to take this concept to extremes. We can all benefit from living a simpler life, but it still has to work for you and reflect the needs of your daily life.

The best approach to a minimalist mindset is to shift your focus to what truly matters by eliminating the excess stuff. It’s about intentional living. We have to minimize in order to maximize all the areas of our lives. This allows us to make room, both physically and mentally, for what brings us joy and lights up our lives. This mindset requires asking tough questions about what you value and letting go of anything that doesn’t align with those values.

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Essence of Organization

Organization is the art of creating systems and structures to efficiently manage our physical possessions along with our commitments and responsibilities. While minimalism focuses on reducing the number of possessions, organization focuses on arranging our items that we have and need in a manner that works for our family and  homes. You need to enjoy existing in your home and doing the things you love. This includes having what you need for the activities or hobbies that bring you joy. The goal is to have your home be soothing but not overwhelming.

Organization is a planned arrangement of your possessions (or commitments) that work to achieve your personal goals for your space or time. Everything should have a purpose and place that minimizes the time and effort you spend to find and use what you need. Organization creates a life of intention and clarity.

Finding Your Balance

Minimalism and organization aren’t opposing concepts. In fact, they can go hand in hand. The key is to find what works for you. Start by identifying what truly matters to you. Think about your long term goals and aspirations. This will help guide your decisions about what to keep and what to let go of. Use your minimalist mindset to declutter your physical space and simplify your commitments. Then use the power of organization to ensure that what you do keep is well-maintained and easy to manage. Finding this balance is an ever changing process. Such is life, right? There will be adjustments along the way. What works for someone else may not work for you, and that’s perfectly fine. This process is personal and really just needs to fill the needs of you and your family.

Organized Jill professional home organizer Winston Salem NC, guide to balancing minimalism and organization

If you need a hand decluttering and organizing your home, we’re here to help! 
Are you local to Winston-Salem, North Carolina and surrounding areas?
Contact Organized Jill for a complimentary consultation.