The ten things I know are true

7 October 2024

I started Peace of Mind Organizing® in July 2005. When I made this big transition from being a writer, I strongly suspected it would bring me happiness. (You can read about why I became a professional organizer, if you’re interested.) What I didn’t know then is how much I would learn and what a life changing profession it is. On my tenth anniversary, I reflected on ten truths I’ve learned as an organizer. When I review those things after 19 years in business, I realize they’re as true as ever. I thought I’d share them again today.

Thinking about my anniversary, I took a moment to write down ten things I’ve learned as a PO that have been proven true over and over again.

The less stuff you own, the easier your life is. Less stuff = more freedom.
Relationships are more important than things. Don’t let your stuff get in the way of your relationships.
There is no such thing as perfectly organized. Strive for “organized enough” instead.
You can’t put something away unless you have a place for it. And you can’t have a place for it if you have more stuff than you can comfortably store.
It’s easiest to create a new habit if you pair it with something you’re already doing. Use that trick to let habit creation be easy.
Indecision leads to clutter. Make it a habit to decide immediately what to do with items.
It’s okay to ask for organizing help. In fact, it can be very beneficial.
Messy does not equal disorganized. I’m living proof.
Tidy does not equal organized. I’ve seen many neat but disorganized spaces.
You are not your stuff. Don’t let your stuff (and your ability to organize it) define you.