Make Organizing Your Home and Office a Lifestyle—Not Just a To-Do List
What if organizing wasn’t just something you did when guests were coming over or chaos finally became unbearable?
What if it became who you are?
Not a task… but a lifestyle.
When we walk into a cluttered room—papers stacked in corners, clothes on chairs, cables twisted in piles—it doesn’t just affect what we see. It affects how we feel. Clutter whispers lies: You’re behind. You’ll never catch up. You’re failing. And even if we ignore it, our nervous system doesn’t.
We carry that weight into our day, into our work, into our relationships. We snap when we mean to comfort. We procrastinate when we want to act. We feel stuck when we deeply want to move forward.
But here’s the truth:
Organizing is not about being perfect. It’s about being free.
Free to think clearly. Free to breathe deeply. Free to move forward with intention.
When we make organizing a lifestyle, we begin choosing clarity over chaos every day. We take back the power from the piles and reclaim our time, our space, our peace.
It’s five minutes every morning to reset your desk before you begin work.
It’s giving every item in your home a purpose—and letting go of what no longer serves you.
It’s creating systems that support who you are today, not who you used to be.
You deserve a home that welcomes you in peace. You deserve a workspace that reflects your purpose. You deserve a life that flows.
Organizing isn’t about the bins or the labels or the aesthetics (although those can help). It’s about respect—for your time, your energy, your journey.
And when you shift from occasional tidying to intentional living, your home and office stop being sources of stress… and start becoming sanctuaries.
Let every drawer you declutter be an act of self-love. Let every system you set up be a declaration of worth. Let every clear space be a canvas—for the life you’re ready to build.
Embrace the Power of Small Wins: 10 Mini Clutter Clinics in Just 10 Minutes Each!
In the hustle and bustle of life, finding the time and energy to tackle clutter can feel overwhelming. But what if I told you that you could make a significant impact on your space in just 10 minutes? Introducing my 10 Mini Clutter Clinics—a series of quick, focused sessions designed to bring order to your life without the stress. Each clinic is a bite-sized, manageable task that guides you in decluttering and organizing different areas of your home or workspace.
Why 10 Minutes? Ten minutes is a sweet spot—it’s short enough to fit into your busiest day, yet long enough to make a noticeable difference. By breaking down the process into these mini clinics, you’ll experience the joy of small victories that build momentum. Every completed clinic is a step closer to a more organized, peaceful environment.
What Can You Expect?
Immediate Impact: You’ll see the difference right away. Whether it’s clearing off a cluttered countertop or organizing a messy drawer, these clinics are designed to give you quick wins that boost your confidence and motivation.
Stress-Free Progress: No need to carve out hours of your day. Each clinic is purposefully designed to be completed in just 10 minutes, making it easy to integrate into your daily routine.
Empowerment: As you move through each clinic, you’ll feel empowered by your ability to create positive change in your environment. The sense of accomplishment will encourage you to continue your journey toward a clutter-free life.
The Journey Ahead: Your Path to a More Organized Life Starts Here, One Clinic at a Time. Whether you’re clearing out the junk drawer that’s been bothering you for months or finally organizing that pile of paperwork, each mini clinic will bring you closer to the peaceful, clutter-free space you deserve.
So, let’s get started! Commit just 10 minutes to your first clinic, and watch how these small, intentional actions can lead to big transformations. Remember, every step forward is a step toward a more serene, organized life. You’ve got this!
Purse/Briefcase/Backpack
Dump the contents from your daily bag. Only add the items you use back in. Let go of the rest. If you choose a day each week, this 10-minute task will be a way to change a habit and behavior.
Bathroom
Let go of old cosmetics (see this for expiry guidelines), expired prescriptions, and OTC meds (here’s how to dispose of them). Take an assessment of each drawer and cabinet. Donate to a local homeless shelter if there are unopened items (toothpaste, shampoo, soap) or similar items that you know you will never use.
Hall Closet or Storage Area
I’ve never seen the inside of your hall closet, but I can guarantee there are things in there you don’t need, don’t want, and don’t even remember you have or don’t know how they got there.
Pantry
If there are other things you never use, let them go and make space. Donate unexpired, unopened items to your local food bank. Create a master list of what goes where on what shelf, create something to match the theme of your kitchen, drop it in a Dollar Store frame, and hang it so everyone knows how to keep the pantry tidy.
Nightstand
Make the space near where you sleep peaceful and straightforward. Having a battery-operated clock next to the bed is nice in case of power outages. Have water and a notebook with a pen/pencil to make those last-minute thoughts before dreamland.
Outdoor space
Tackle balconies, porches, front yards, and backyards. Even outside clutter is clutter. If your home is on the market or will be short, curb appeal makes that first impression.
Car
From the glove box to the trunk, do a deep dig of your car. You’ll probably eliminate that annoying rattling noise or solve the mystery smell in the process, too.
Inbox
If your inbox has become a 2-year to-do list, start deleting it for 10 minutes at a time. Consider email bankruptcy if it’s a lost cause (select.all.delete.). If you don’t remember what emails you were saving and why . . . let them go!
Thoughts
What’s swirling around up there? Write down 10 things on your mind, weighing you down, and preventing you from thinking clearly. Moving your worries from the brain to the paper will help you figure out the next step.
Office
Are there things on your desk, in drawers, or hiding in a filing cabinet that you can easily let go of? Let go of the things in your office that don’t contribute to your purposeful, effective work style.
Now that you’ve let procrastination know that motivation and transformation have taken over, consider other decluttering challenges and resources to continue the momentum of moving forward to a simpler lifestyle.
By creating space for profound healing and renewal, we clear away what no longer serves us.
Life can throw unexpected events at us that leave a lasting impression, such as the death of a loved one, a sudden epiphany, or an instant that changes everything. We may find ourselves reflecting on these events for years to come.
These defining moments can ground us, reminding us of our reality and what is truly important. Although we may try to forget these memories as we move forward, they can still weigh heavily upon us.
Repressed emotions don’t disappear; they can manifest unexpectedly as mental exhaustion, emotional outbursts, or even a disorganized living space.
Creating space, both mentally and physically, is a crucial step toward achieving profound healing and renewal. This process allows us to delve deep within ourselves and confront the aspects of our lives that no longer contribute positively to our well-being. By actively identifying and releasing these burdens, we create room for growth, transformation, and the cultivation of a more authentic and fulfilling existence.
The act of letting go can be challenging, as we often hold onto things, both tangible and intangible, out of familiarity, fear, or a false sense of security. However, what we fail to acknowledge is that what we bury within ourselves doesn’t simply disappear; it often resurfaces in unexpected and potentially harmful ways. Unexpressed emotions, unresolved traumas, and limiting beliefs can manifest as physical ailments, emotional distress, and self-destructive behaviors.
By creating space, we allow ourselves to confront these hidden aspects of ourselves with compassion and understanding. This process may involve therapy, journaling, meditation, or other forms of self-reflection. It may also involve decluttering our physical spaces, letting go of toxic relationships, or changing unhealthy habits.
The goal is not to erase our past or to deny our experiences, but rather to integrate them into a more holistic understanding of ourselves. By acknowledging and releasing what no longer serves us, we create space for new experiences, new relationships, and new possibilities. We open ourselves up to the flow of life and allow ourselves to be guided by our intuition and our inner wisdom.
TRY THIS!
“THE STORY, THE LESSON, THE LETTING GO” Activity
Purpose: To help clients honor the emotional connection to an item without needing to keep the physical object.
📝 What You’ll Need:
A journal or printed worksheet
A pen or marker
A camera or phone (optional)
🌟 Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Choose One Sentimental Item Pick one item that feels meaningful but may no longer fit your life or space.
2. Write the Story Ask: “What memory or emotion is tied to this item?” Have them write a few sentences (or talk it out if journaling isn’t their thing).
Example: “This was my grandmother’s teacup. She used to pour me mint tea in this cup when I was a kid, and we’d sit and talk.”
3. Find the Lesson or Legacy Ask: “What has this item taught you or reminded you about yourself or your life?”
Example: “It reminds me how important quiet moments and connection are. I want more of that in my current life.”
4. The Letting Go Options:
Take a photo of the item to keep the memory.
Create a small memory box or digital album with the photo and story.
Gently release the item with intention.
Say out loud (or write): “Thank you for the memory. I carry your story with me, not your shape.”
✅ Why This Works:
It respects the emotion, rather than denying it.
It shifts focus from the object to the experience.
It gently empowers decision-making by turning guilt into gratitude.
Transform your home into a sanctuary of supportive energy by cultivating a stress-free environment.
Our homes, often mere stopovers in our busy lives, can be transformed into true sanctuaries. Just as gardens require tending to bloom, our homes need care to become wellsprings of replenishment and beauty. By treating them as cherished treasures, we can shift their energy and foster a deeper connection to our personal space.
Consider your home as a mirror of your inner self. If its current appearance doesn’t align with how you envision yourself, it can hinder your ability to shine truly. Transforming your home to reflect your inner landscape doesn’t require a complete overhaul or significant expense.
Simple actions can make a profound difference:
Curate your surroundings: Arrange items so that your gaze consistently falls upon the things you love most.
Embrace hidden treasures: Bring out cherished items you’ve tucked away, or use your finest dishes.
Make small repairs: Address minor issues that can accumulate and detract from your home’s appeal.
Declutter and organize: A cost-free way to reduce chaos and invite calm into your space.
Rejuvenate with purpose: View the rejuvenation of your personal space as a creative project that enhances well-being and connection.
Create space for newness: Donate old items to charity, opening up your home for fresh energy.
Streamline daily tasks: Simple strategies, such as storing bills in decorative boxes and designating a specific time to address them, can help reduce stress.
Ensure free flow of energy: Remove clutter to allow energy to move freely throughout your space.
Simplifying your home allows your imagination and energy to flourish. By prioritizing your home as the heart of your family’s activities, you gain the freedom to focus on what truly matters: time for yourself, time for loved ones, and time to replenish your energy, enabling you to share more and the world.
Peace & Harmony, Coach Cher
For more in-depth support beyond this article, explore my personalized coaching programs. Schedule a free consultation to discuss what’s preventing you from achieving organized living spaces. We’ll pinpoint your obstacles and create a customized plan to reach your goals.Email:organizercoach98@gmail.com
Welcome to our monthly newsletter, THE GRACE NOTES, where we bring tips and inspiration to help you create a more organized, harmonious living space. This month, we’re diving into the transformative power of the home organization process and how it can enhance your daily life.
As we embrace a new month, let’s focus on the power of a well-organized home.
Here are some impactful tips to help you transform your space:
Step-by-Step Tips for a Clutter-Free Space
Start Small: Think Big: Begin with one room or even a single drawer. Decluttering in manageable chunks prevents overwhelm and fuels motivation.
Declutter with Purpose: Assess each item’s value. If it doesn’t serve a purpose or spark joy, it’s time to let it go. Donate or recycle to reduce waste.
Create Functional Zones: Designate specific areas for cooking, working, and relaxing activities. This makes everything easier to find and use.
Maximize Vertical Space: Use shelves, hooks, and cabinets to utilize wall space. This keeps surfaces clear and the room feeling more open.
Regular Maintenance: Set aside 15 minutes a day for a quick tidy-up. Consistent maintenance prevents clutter from accumulating.
Personalize Your Space: Make your home uniquely yours. Incorporate items that reflect your style and personality while maintaining a clutter-free environment.
A well-organized home not only looks great but also boosts your mental clarity and productivity. Start your journey today and feel the transformative impact of an organized living space.
Why Organize?
A well-organized home is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it’s a catalyst for a healthier, more productive lifestyle. Clutter and chaos can lead to stress, reduce your efficiency, and even affect your mental health. On the flip side, an organized home can create a sense of calm, improve your focus, and give you more time to enjoy the things you love.
The Benefits You’ll Experience
Reduced Stress: A tidy environment can help lower anxiety levels, making your home a true sanctuary.
Increased Productivity: With everything in its place, you’ll spend less time searching for things and more time being productive or relaxing.
Enhanced Creativity: An organized space can inspire new ideas and creative thinking.
Improved Health: Less clutter means fewer places for dust and allergens to accumulate, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Get Started Today
If the thought of organizing your entire home feels overwhelming, remember you don’t have to do it alone. As a professional organizer, I am here to help you every step of the way. Together, we can create a customized plan that suits your lifestyle and transforms your home into a space where you can thrive.
Ready to take the first step towards a more organized life? Contact me today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can bring order and tranquility to your home. Let’s make your dream space a reality!
Affordable Ways to Keep Your Home Tidy By Cheryl, Clutter Coach at Lifestyle by Designs | Apr 15, 2025
Keeping your home tidy doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune on fancy containers or hiring a cleaning crew every week. With a few smart, budget-friendly habits, you can create a more organized and peaceful space without breaking the bank.
Here are some affordable ways to keep your home tidy and stress-free:
1. Declutter First – Always
Before spending money on bins or shelves, go through each room and remove what you no longer need. Donate, recycle, or toss items you haven’t used in over a year. Less stuff means less to clean and organize.
2. Use What You Already Have
Repurpose jars, shoe boxes, or old baskets as storage containers. An empty mason jar makes a great pen holder. A shoebox with a lid can keep cords or stationery neatly tucked away. You don’t need a Pinterest-worthy look for an efficient system to work.
3. Create a 10-Minute Daily Reset
Set a timer for 10 minutes each evening to do a quick tidy-up: clear countertops, toss trash, fluff the couch cushions, and put away out-of-place items. It keeps mess from building up and costs nothing but a little time.
4. Label Everything
A simple roll of masking tape and a marker can create labels that help everyone in the house know where things belong. Clear labels reduce the chances of clutter reappearing.
5. Designate a “Drop Zone”
Set up a small space near your front door for shoes, keys, mail, and bags. A tray, hooks, or an unused basket works wonders to corral everyday items and keep clutter from spreading.
6. Shop Thrift Stores for Organizers
Instead of spending big at retail stores, check out local thrift shops for inexpensive shelves, bins, or storage furniture. Many quality pieces just need a quick clean or a coat of paint to look brand new.
7. Adopt a One-In, One-Out Rule
For every new item you bring into your home, remove one. This keeps things from piling up and makes you think twice about impulse buys.
8. Use Vertical Space
Install wall hooks, hanging baskets, or floating shelves to maximize unused space. Vertical storage helps keep things off the floor and adds style and structure to a room.
9. Keep a Donation Box Handy
Place a box or bag in a closet where you can easily toss things you no longer want. When it’s full, take it to a local charity. It encourages a minimalist mindset and keeps clutter moving out the door.
10. Plan Seasonal Purges
Schedule mini-decluttering sessions at the start of each season. It keeps your home aligned with your current needs and avoids last-minute deep cleans before holidays or guests arrive.
Final Thought: Staying organized doesn’t require expensive tools—it just takes commitment, creativity, and consistency. At Lifestyle by Designs, we specialize in helping clients find sustainable, affordable ways to bring order to their homes and offices. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter, let’s create a system that works for your lifestyle.
Peace & Harmony, Cheryl
Where Clean Meets Design
If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my article, consider my personalized coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you to transform your lifestyle.
Home & Office Organizer 