Taking Charge of Change

The process of organizing at home or at work involves changes to your life. Some changes are easier than others. The National Association of Professional Organizers in Michigan wants to share some insights so you can master the changes needed to make your life run more smoothly wherever you are.

1. Start small. Having a hard time clearing an entire room? Start with one drawer, then move to another small space like a shelf or a corner. Small steps applied consistently can make a bigger difference in your space (and be less stressful!) than giant undertakings pursued every once in a while.

2. Keep moving forward. Working towards a specific target goal is more likely to bring you success (i.e. A clear space in the living room so I can entertain my friends.) than vague goals that move away from something (i.e. Just get rid of this clutter!) Keeping the big picture in mind will help push you through the inevitable tough spots that come with most changes.

3. Build positive support. Learning, sharing, and growing with others can help make a change seem more bearable and ultimately more “do-able” as you work your way through the organizing process. Sometimes a pair of fresh eyes can help you see your situation in a new light or offer insight that you may not have discovered on your own.

4. Do what works. Organizing is a dynamic process, not a one-time event. You may find that you need to adjust, refine, and modify your organizing systems to accommodate the changes you are making. That’s okay! Find what works for you and then use it consistently.

Change can be easier than you think! For more organizing tips, visit www.NapoMichigan.com.

Article submitted by Chapter Vice-President Trish Krebs.