No Matter How Big or How Small…
I recently returned from my NAPO (National Association of Professional Organizers) annual conference with a lot of information to digest. Our theme was “Unmask the Potential”. The conference was held in New Orleans, which in and of itself, was a great place to be for close to a week. We were in workshops all day, but I arrived a day early and had the evenings to explore the city. What fun!
When I attend workshops, I do so not only for my own personal growth, but also to put the knowledge gained into practical use for my clients. I met people from all over the world, so interacting with others is always another benefit. I also love hearing both veteran and new organizers’ perspectives on challenging situations.
One thing I always come back to is how professional organizers can enhance their clients’ lives. It is not always about the stuff, but how we look at it and how much value we attach towards it. Less really can be more.
I am in my 6th year of business, and I decided now was the time to get rid of all my corporate manuals and paperwork from my prior 25+ years of corporate experience in the financial world. I was a project manager, a customer service and service delivery team manager, and was always looking for ways to improve efficiency and get rid of redundancies. For all this time, I held onto my manuals, spreadsheets I had created, reference materials, etc. I knew I’d never go back to those corporate jobs. I love being my own boss. So why was I saving boxes and boxes of paperwork? Like everything else in our lives, we think we are going to need these things.
Besides taking up valuable storage space in my basement, it zapped me of energy. Every time I went down to my basement and saw those boxes, I felt overwhelmed at having to go through all of them. It seemed easier to let all that material stay in their boxes on shelves rather than start, let alone finish, getting rid of everything. I was able to rationalize that these boxes really weren’t in my way physically. But, they were mentally, and the time finally came where I was able to let go and move on. My recyclable bucket is overflowing, and that is a great feeling. I am finally free. The memories and everything that I learned are still with me, but I no longer have the physical weight on my shoulders.
I can totally relate to my clients who have a hard time letting go of items. I used the same questions on myself that I use with them. When was the last time you used the item? Does it make a difference in your life? Do you even like it?
Remember, you don’t have to be perfect. Making any kind of progress builds confidence and shows improvement. It took me 5 ½ years to get rid of my stuff. Maybe it’ll take you less time to get rid of yours.
Are you ready to make a change and unmask your potential?
Now is your time to go from Bedlam to Brilliance
Barbara Berman
www.bb-clutter-solutions.com
info@bb-clutter-solutions.com
856-912-0077
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