Introduction to Organization

No matter what your organizing challenges are, a Professional Organizer can help you focus on your goals and overcome each organization obstacle.

I haven't got time to organize.

In "Taming the Paper Tiger at Home", author Barbara Hemphill suggests that the best way to organize is to start with the present, plan for the future, then work your way through the backlog. Making time to accomplish small tasks helps overcome the tendency to procrastinate.

I wasn't born organized!

Lots of people were born without the organization gene. Luckily it is a life skill that can be taught, no matter what your style of learning.

I'm not Martha Stewart!

That's OK, remember that she's an expert and she can delegate to her staff. Too often, clients inadvertently set themselves up for failure by setting unobtainable standards of perfection. At Havoc to Harmony we know how to analyze needs and develop organization strategies specifically designed for individual situations.

I should be able to do this myself.

There are many things we should do and indeed, could do for ourselves that we already hire out to other professionals. Think about the services you already pay for: haircuts, manicures, oil changes, window washing and home decorating. Professional Organizers are increasingly becoming an accepted part of the service industry.

I can't get others to co-operate i.e. co-workers or family.

This is a motivation problem. We specialize in solid team building strategies to overcome apathy and inertia.

I can't afford to hire a Professional Organizer.

Our organizing program provides a range of services ranging from teaching you how to organize, assisting you with the organization or actually organizing for you. Many of us pay a lawn service annually to spray for weeds. Surely weeding out the inside of your home is equally important to weeding the outside!

I don't see the point.

Clients fear that everything will just get messed up again! To prevent rebound disorganization, we offer maintenance strategies as part of our organizing program.

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Organizing Philosophy

"Organizing isn't about how everything looks, it's about how everything works."
- Karen Sencich

Why Get Organized?

Reduce clutter related stress
Save time looking for misplaced items
Avoid storing duplicate items
Space for lifestyle related items
Bills paid on time
Increased personal effectiveness
Enjoy a less hazardous environment
Reduce demands on time, space and energy

FAQs

How did I get so disorganized?
Why do clients need an organizer?
Where do I start to get organized?
How long will this take?
How do I deal with the disorganized people in my life?
Why did you become a professional organizer?
What makes you an organizing expert?

Tackle it Now Tip

Pack and Go

Now that winter is winding down, many families are planning a spring get away. The key to a relaxing get away is to pack effectively. A personal packing list simplifies the packing process.

SUITCASES

Buy sturdy, lightweight suitcases on wheels, ones that nest together for easy storage.
Invest in luggage straps to securely strap smaller luggage onto bigger rolling pieces.
Pack only what you can comfortably carry and lift by yourself.
There is lots of walking through airports, so wear your most comfortable shoes (remember that you'll have to take them off to go through security).
Dress in layers for comfort on the plane.
Plastic compression bags are the best new invention for compact packing. Vacuum pack or roll wrinkle-proof items like underwear, bathing suits, bulky sweaters or socks. Coming home, use the bags to compress dirty laundry to make room to pack souvenirs.

CARRY ON

Pack a roomy, waterproof tote or backpack for necessary carry on items, ID, tickets and mini sized cosmetics. You can use it again as a beach bag or when sightseeing.
Carry personal prescriptions with you at all times. Include motion sickness remedies available in pills, patch or a magnetic bracelet.
Remember that you can only carry on a total of 100 ml. of liquids, stored in a see through zip lock baggie. Obtain current international luggage restrictions regarding carrying fluids at www.tc.gc.ca . Also check with your airline for their specific baggage weight regulations and charges since the rules frequently change.
Have a friend or family member drive you to the airport so you can leave winter wear in the car until you return from the sun. No sense lugging the extra weight of bulky coats.

SAFETY & SECURITY

Label identification tags using a work address and cell phone number in case luggage is misplaced. (For security reasons never use your home address.)
On bus tours and cruises luggage is often left unsupervised, so invest in good quality locks.
Will a safe be available in your room? This may determine whether you travel with real or costume jewellery.
Don't take a bulky wallet, instead pare down to the essentials: license, health card, ATM and charge cards.
Code your cell phone with an ICE number (In Case of Emergency contact)
Pack a flashlight or nightlight to navigate in dark, unfamiliar places

WARDROBE PLANNING

Check if your destination or cruise ship has a dress code in effect requiring dress jackets and ties for men. When sightseeing find out if there are clothing restrictions, i.e. shorts may not be appropriate in some locations and women may have to cover their heads to enter a church. Be prepared with a pashmina that can double as a scarf or evening shawl.
Begin with the "Classic Packing Rule of Nine"
         - 3 bottoms (skirts, slacks or shorts)
         - 4 tops (shirt, blouse, T-shirt, shell or tank top)
         - 2 jackets (one weatherproof windbreaker and a jacket, blazer or cardigan)
Mix and match outfits starting with coordinating classic colours: black, navy, white, and then add bright contrasts. Accessorize to glamorize using belts, scarves, or shawls for a burst of colour. A dressy cardigan with a bit of glitter can dress up any outfit for evening.
Plan double duty items - an oversize shirt can double as a bathing suit cover or a housecoat.
Pack one pair of dressy, low heeled sandals
Pack flip flops instead of slippers and tuck them into your backpack for comfortable sightseeing when your feet tire of walking shoes.

Professional Organizer Karen Sencich is owner of Havoc to Harmony. www.havoctoharmony.com