Finding the Motivation to Get (And Stay!) Organized

I am lucky, because I have been naturally organized since I was in diapers. I am wired to automatically return things to their places - it's simply the only way I know how to be. However, I know all too well that many of you do not share this natural affinity for organization. But that doesn't mean that you can't train yourself to be this way, or at least to be able to maintain an organized space! Here is my guide for finding the motivation to get your space in shape, and keep it that way.

Step one: Eyes on the prize. 

You know when fitness gurus say things like "You're going to feel so good when you work out! Think about your goal weight!" and you kinda want to punch them in the face (or maybe that's just me)? But ultimately, even I have to admit that they are right. Working out might feel hellish at times, but even I feel good after a workout, because it feels good to work towards a goal, and even better to accomplish that goal. The end result justifies the (sometimes very crappy) means! And the same applies to getting organized. You need to condition yourself to love it (or at least tolerate it), and one way to do that is by keeping your eyes on the prize. Like focusing on your dream body, focus on your DREAM HOME. Imagine getting to live in a serene and tidy space. Think about the ease of being able to find whatever you need whenever you need it. Look for organization photos that inspire you. Make a vision board of gorgeously organized spaces. Follow organizers on Instagram (cough, @theorganizerbunny). If you focus on how GOOD you are going to feel when you get to come home to a beautifully organized space, you will feel more motivated to organize it.

Step two: No excuses

The moment the thought to organize your space pops into your mind, DO IT. Like NOW. Do NOT let it sit and simmer and become a nest of excuses. This is a tactic that I use all the time when I am feeling lazy and don't want to do something. Instead of letting it sit there and grow and fester into a bigger deal than it has to be, I conquer it immediately, and get it over with. Try it - it really works. The more you nip mess in the bud, the more it will become a part of your routine, and this will make it increasingly more natural and easy for you to maintain a tidy home. 

Step three: Make it fun

I know that I am the rare weirdo who literally delights in organizing things. But if this is not the case for you, you need to find a way to make organizing fun (or at least more bearable). Before you start organizing, put on your favorite music. Have a dance party while you sort. Binge watch Queer Eye while you label. Transform organizing from a burden into a multi-task. You can even get your kids involved! Make organizing into a game for them - whoever puts his/her toys away the fastest wins! I've actually done this with some of my clients' kids, and they have been happy to help - It makes them feel important!

Step four: Ask for help

If the first three steps aren't doing it for ya, it's time to bring in a professional. Sometimes it's simply too overwhelming to start the organizing process yourself, and that's okay! Contact me or another professional organizer so that you can get some support when you're first figuring out your organizing groove. I can help you with the big stuff like putting systems into place so that all you have to worry about afterwards is the maintenance.

Step five: Believe in yourself

Cliche? Absolutely. Corny? Totally. But it's also quite true. Don't be a naysayer. Don't tell yourself that you will never be organized, just because it hasn't come easily to you in the past. If I can get through a spin class, you can get your home organized. Trust me.