This Organized Life: Decluttering Tips for Moms, Entrepreneurs and Professional Organizers

Hi Friends,Today we are talking about a specific method of decluttering called Swedish Death Cleaning. The concept was first introduced by Margareta Magnusson in her bookThe Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning: How to Free Yourself and Your Family from a Lifetime of Clutter and now practiced all over the world.She explains this as a process to "remove unnecessary things and make your home nice and orderly when you think the time is coming closer for you to leave the planet, “ so that your loved ones have the freedom to grieve without the added burden of decluttering your belongings. Joining me today is Kelly Brask, a Certified Professional Organizer in Chicago who specializes in the method of Swedish Death Cleaning.During our conversation we talked about how SDC differs from more conventional decluttering methods, specifically:Why this is seen as part of the journey and not something morbid or sadHow the process of SDC is often slower and completed over a series of monthsWhen to begin the process, and how to bring it up to loved onesKelly talks about her personal journey into studying Swedish Death Cleaning and why she chose to incorporate it into her business. She shares some stories from clients and gives examples of things you can do at home if this is something you would like to explore.I’ve also linked to all things Kelly below, so if you have any questions about the process you can connect with her.I learned a lot from this conversation and I hope you do too!XO-LaurieCONNECT WITH KELLYWEBSITE | FACEBOOK | LINKEDINBOOK RECOMMENDATIONSTHE POWER OF HABIT{ANYTHING BY} MALCOLM GLADWELLSWEDISH DEATH CLEANINGOTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEAIRTABLESBO PARTNER PROGRAM

Hi Friends,We just wrapped up a room by room organizing series, and if you haven’t had the chance to listen, I encourage you to go back and check each of these out! KitchensClosetsGarages & Storage SpacesNursery and New BabyPlayrooms & Kid SpacesSmall Space LivingHome OfficesAs I looked back through each episode, there was one central theme that kept popping up-SIMPLICITY.It isn’t the use of a magical bin or basket, sure those can help, but the throughline from each expert, in each space, starts with reducing the amount of stuff you own–(I call that volume), followed by the system you choose to maintain an organized space.The system might be a bin by the door to place your muddy boots, or a drawer that holds all of your knives and cutting tools.It could be adding a turntable in your refrigerator so you can easily see what’s in the back, or perhaps it’s adding cubbies that can double as storage and a nightstand.The combination of less stuff coupled with a simple system increases the likelihood of keeping a clutter-free home. As a general rule, I recommend no more than a two-step process for any space or area. Remember, the simpler the better!Tip: Whenever I am at a crossroads, I always come back to “the ease of retrieval.” How quickly can I find and access what I am looking for? The third part to the equation is COMMUNICATION. This is especially important when you live with other people-whether roommates, partner, spouse, kids or aging parents. We often assume that other people know exactly what we mean when we say things like “clean up” or “I need your help”, but that’s not always the case.Setting clear expectations, explaining the process along with “so that…” paints a picture of WHY an organized home is important.So that…we have more time to play.So that….I am not stressed when I walk through the door.So that….I don’t waste time looking for something I know I have but can’t seem to find.I know first hand the freedom that comes with keeping things simple. The older I get, the less stuff I need or want. However I get that you might be in a season of life filled with kids toys, sports equipment, art projects and more. If that’s you, it’s all the more reason to find SIMPLE where and when you can. Life is chaotic, unpredictable, and coming at us at a million miles an hour. Personally, I want my home to be a place where I can literally shut the door (even if that’s the bathroom door), and slow down for five minutes.If that seems impossible, I’m here to walk with you-one step at a time. We’d love to hear from you, and know where you might be struggling. Please send in your questions to https://simplyborganized.com/questions/

We are wrapping up our room by room series with arguably one of the most overwhelming areas to organize-HOME OFFICES. Joining me today is Stephanie Shalofsky, founder of the The Organizing Zone which she started 14 years ago as a means to provide organizing and productivity services to small companies and individuals in NYC. If we learned anything from the pandemic, it’s the importance of having a dedicated workspace in our homes. What once was considered a luxury has quickly turned into an essential part of the home. Whether you have a separate room or you’re working from the kitchen table, we all need systems to keep paperwork, files, and supplies organized.During our conversation we talked about common pitfalls she sees with her clients, and Stephanie offers some solutions for organizing your home office including:Adopting a mobile workspace. Keeping all of your essentials in one central location is key to staying organized. The benefits of having your workspace mobile is that you can work from anywhere in the home and easily tuck it away when you are done working for the day. (fyi we love rolling carts!)Double-Duty Storage. In Stephanie’s case, her home office also serves as a den/guest room. Incorporating products that don’t scream “papers everywhere!” are a great way to keep your space streamlined and confidential information private.Establishing Retention Guidelines. In other words, a checklist that details “how long do I need to keep that?” One of the main reasons that we hold onto files and papers is because we fear that we might need it. We don’t always take into consideration the impact that this excess clutter can have on our productivity. Establishing clear guidelines based on legal and practical regulations (ie: what are the odds I will need this?) removes the guesswork for you.In my world, we do a deep-dive once a year for our personal files. Each year, more and more documents are accessible online which allows me the freedom to keep less physical paper. Stephanie has created a free download which has some best practices for Home Office Organizing-make sure to check out the link below to grab yours!Happy Organizing!LaurieP.S. If you found something valuable in this episode, please share it with a friend!If you feel so inclined, please click the 5-star button ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ and leave us a review so that others know our show is worth listening to. My friend Angie Griffith created this short video teaching you how to do it!CONNECT WITH STEPHANIE WEBSITE | YOU TUBE | LINKEDINFREE DOWNLOAD: HOME OFFICE ORGANIZING & PRODUCTIVITY BEST PRACTICESSTEPHANIE’S BOOK RECOMMENDATION PLATONIC: HOW THE SCIENCE OF ATTACHMENT CAN HELP YOU MAKE AND KEEP FRIENDS

If you're struggling with clutter and want to simplify your life, you are in the right place. I'm Laurie Palau, founder of Simply Be Organized, author of the book Hot Mess, A Practical Guide to Getting Organized and Host of the Weekly Podcast, This Organized lLfe. After over a decade of working one-on-one with people in their homes, I've learned that for a lot of people, clutter is their dirty little secret, but it doesn't have to be.Let's face it. Life can be complicated, but getting organized shouldn't have to be. I started this podcast seven years ago as a place to offer ideas. Tips and strategies to help you simplify daily tasks so that you can live a more organized life. We not only talk about physical clutter, which is the stuff that you see, like piles of paper, overflowing closets and mountains of toys to emotional clutter, which is the guilt or fear that keeps you from letting things go to calendar clutter, which is the overwhelming need to say yes or overcommitting yourself, which is my personal pitfall.Each of these roadblocks can deter you from living the life that you want, whether you are a busy. A budding entrepreneur, an empty nester, or maybe you fall somewhere in between. There is something here for you. Each week we share practical tips, chat with experts like Matt Paxton and Rachel Cruz to bestselling authors like Gretchen Rubin and Joshua Becker.To thought leaders like Mel Robbins and Ive Rodsky and everyday folks who offer guidance, advice and perspective on what it means to live an organized life. It's my hope that by sharing our stories, you will feel a little less alone and a little more empowered to tackle the areas that are holding you back.So if this sounds like what you're looking for, make sure to follow our show. And if you'd like stalk us on social media at This Organized Life podcast, now let's get started.

Hi Friends!Today we are talking about small space living-—the good, the bad and how to make the most of your space. Joining me is Dani Sticka, founder of Imperfectly Tidy and host of the Imperfectly Tidy Podcast. Dani is also one of our SBO Partners in Portland, OR where she lives in a 1100 square foot house with her husband and twin 14 year old girls.During our conversation we talked about both the pros and cons of small space living. From having less to clean and maintain, to getting creative with furniture that may have to serve multiple functions.Dani opens up about what it was like to move a lot as a kid, and why she and her husband choose to stay in their small home for the past 17 years, rather than “upgrade” to something larger.Dani shares some practical tips and advice for others who want to minimize clutter and maximize space when square footage is an issue.Reducing the amount of linens so that she has more space in smaller closetsAvoiding bulk shopping to minimize having to store back stock itemsUsing a butterfly leaf table to save on space when they are not entertainingThere is a level of intentionality that comes from living in smaller spaces, but it also allows you to prioritize quality time with the people in your home. Creating a cozy environment doesn't have to mean cluttered.If you live in a small space, what are some of your greatest tips? Leave us a comment to let us know!We’d also like to thank our sponsor for today’s episode, EveryPlate. The most affordable meal delivery service, without sacrificing quality. Best of all you will save valuable time shopping, planning, and prepping because everything is done for you! Talk about reducing calendar clutter!Get started with EveryPlate for just $1.49 per meal by going to EveryPlate.com/Podcast and entering code tol149 to take advantage of our exclusive offer! XOXO-LaurieCONNECT WITH DANIWebsite | Instagram | LinkedIn | PodcastDANI’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSoulful Simplicity by Courtney Carver*LISTEN to my 2- part conversation with Courtney Carver on TOLPart 1: https://simplyborganized.com/2018/10/25/ep-098-creating-a-capsule-wardrobe-with-special-guest-courtney-carver-part-1/Part 2: https://simplyborganized.com/2018/11/01/ep-099-project-333-with-special-guest-courtney-carver-part-2/

Hi Friends!Today we are talking about one of my favorite things-Kid Spaces and Playrooms. I’m super passionate about this topic because it involves teaching young ones the foundational skills that are necessary for living a balanced and organized life.Joining me today is Janelle Azar. our SBO partner in the Detroit Metro Area. She is the founder of A Meaningful Space (some of you might remember her from episode 255 when we talked about Travel Tips), but today we are diving into the world of toys, books, games, and how to keep playrooms and kid spaces organized.During our conversation we talked about:When to begin getting the kids involved in clean up and donations (it’s earlier than you think)How much is too much?The role of Emotional Clutter, for both parents and kidsHow to determine what is a keepsakeHow and what to hold onto for siblingsJanelle shares 3 common roadblocks that hold people back from getting started. Not knowing where to startParents think that their kids play with all the toys (or that they will miss them when they are gone!)Fear of causing an argumentWe also dive into the fun stuff, including Janelle’s favorite products (we’ve linked a few below!)The most important takeaway from this conversation was when Janelle posed the question “How much inventory do you want to manage?” The more stuff you have, the more time it takes to clean up.Starting these life skills for your kids is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Write to us at info@simplyborganized.com to let us know what your favorite takeaway was from this conversation.XOXO-LaurieP.S. Make sure to get your free kids decluttering guide HERE!CONNECT WITH JANELLEWEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAMLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE3 Tier Rolling CartFabric Bins from MDesignStorage CubesJanelle’s Book Recommendation: SOUNDTRACKS

Hi Friends!We are continuing with our Room-By-Room series with a little twist today…What happens when best friends, moms, neighbors and former healthcare workers, decide to start a business together during the pandemic?Our guests today did just that. Mary Beth Bartlett and Megan McDowell took their love of organizing and passion for helping others to start Rooms to Breathe, an Alabama based organizing business.They are particularly passionate about supporting women as they make the life changing transition into motherhood, so I asked them if they would come on our show to talk about an area that we have never discussed on This ORGANIZED Life…Baby Prep and Nursery Organization.During our conversation we talked about:Specific practical ways to help new mothers with touches like stocking the fridge with grab-and-go items like granola bars, cheese sticks, and fresh fruitIncorporating turntables in the fridge and pantry to make accessing items a breeze.Having hydration stations available to keep mom going throughout the day.Setting up memorabilia boxes for precious keepsakes.Megan also opened up about her personal bout with postpartum anxiety, and we discussed how the process of decluttering and simplifying helped her through that period of her life.I was in awe listening to all of the details and thoughtful touches they include; not only to organize a nursery, but for comfort and ease for mom, dad, and visitors so they can enjoy their new bundle in the peace of an organized space.This is a great episode, and Mary Beth and Megan are adorable! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.XOXO-LaurieCONNECT WITH ROOMS TO BREATHEWEBSITE | INSTAGRAMBOOK RECOMMENDATIONSMEGAN: FAIR PLAY | THE LAZY WAY GENIUSMARY BETH: SIMPLICITY PARENTING

Joining me today is Leigh Achenbach, founder of Suddenly Simple Organizing in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. I invited Leigh on TOL to talk about storage spaces-specifically Garages, Attics and/or Basements. For folks living in a house, you probably have at least one of these areas that requires ongoing maintenance to keep from becoming a cluttered mess. If you live in an apartment you may have a storage space somewhere in your building where you keep seasonal or large items. During our conversation Leigh shares some practical and SIMPLE strategies to keep these spaces functional and organized. Some things we talked about:The many uses for garages, attics, and/or basementsHow many people are unable to park cars inside their garageWhy these larger spaces are so overwhelming to declutter and get organizedCommon pain points on why folks struggle to keep organized long termWhy she likes to work in “macro-categories”So many people fall into the trap of forgetting where they put something, or if they even have it. Leigh shares some of her favorite products, and tips to maximize space and find what you need. If this sounds like you or someone you know, you’re going to want to listen to this episode!Make sure to check out the links below for everything we talked about during our conversation.XOXO-LaurieP.S. Would you mind taking a second to leave us a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review in Apple Podcast to let other folks know what you love about our show. You can also ask us questions, or suggest topics you’d like to hear!CONNECT WITH LEIGHWEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAMLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEGARAGE CHECKLISTFAST TRACK STORAGE SYSTEMLATCHED STORAGE BINSHANGING LOFTSSHANNON FORD PODCASTUNLOCKED with SAVANNAH CHRISLEY

Hi Friends,Today we are continuing with our Room-By-Room series, and talking about one of the biggest pain points for many of you-CLOSETS.From linen closets to primary closets, we tend to never have enough space, or if we do have ample space, utilizing it in a way that serves our needs is often a struggle.Joining me today is Heather Bifulco, founder of Tidy Style. Heather is based in Boise, Idaho and along with her team of professionals, helps her clients live a more organized life.During our conversation we talked about:The biggest issue she sees with her clients (hint: it has to do with volume, not space)How to identify and maximize Prime Real EstateHanging vs Folding (is there a right way?)She is also a mom of littles, so we talk about what to do with “hand-me-downs" and “grow clothes.” Whether you live in an apartment, an estate or somewhere in between, there’s something in this episode for everyone.Make sure to check out the links below to our closet checklist and all things mentioned in this episode.XOXO-LaurieTune in next week when we’ll be talking about garages, attics and basements!CONNECT WITH HEATHERWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBEDOWNLOAD OUR FREE CLOSET CHECKLIST!BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS: The Lincoln Highway This Tender LandAnything by Elin Hilderbrand

Hi Friends!Today we are kicking off a new series here at This ORGANIZED Life, called Organizing Room by Room. With January leading the charge for decluttering and getting organized, we thought it would be helpful to bring on a bunch of experts who specialize in certain spaces to talk about some of the struggles they see people facing, and share some solutions to help you in your organizing/decluttering journey.To start us off, I invited one of my friends, and one of your favorites, Organizational Designer Lisa Eckerle, to join me in talking about one of my favorite rooms in the house-The Kitchen.You might remember Lisa from Episode 268, where she shared her story of starting her Professional Organizing business on the weekends while working a full-time job and mothering 2 littles. Once folks got wind of her incredible eye for design and her on-point organizing skills, her business took off and she was able to leave her full time job and run Sort Support, full time. She specializes in ORGANIZATIONAL DESIGN, and is currently one of the leading experts in the Indianapolis area. -So for all my Indy listeners-make sure to check her out!As the epicenter of our homes, kitchens do a lot of heavy lifting. From cooking and food storage, to conversation areas, command centers, or a homework hub-a good organization plan is critical for reducing anxiety and feeling in control of your space.Although you don’t have to start in this room, for many it’s their biggest pain point.If your kitchen is organized (or disorganized), it sets the tone for the rest of the house. During our conversation we talked about:Common pitfalls she sees and hears from her clients who struggle to keep their kitchens organized.Strategies to help make your kitchen more functional and less stressful.Why ditching (infrequently used) single use gadgets is a simple way to free up space.Lisa’s signature “C.R.A.P “Method is great for this! Cheap, Repetitive, Aggravating, Past its prime.Breaking your kitchen into “zones” by categories to make finding things easier for the whole family. Some examples include Cutting Drawer, Baking Station, Prep Area, Cook CabinetKitchens are one area in the home where the right products can make a huge difference-(*disclaimer we don’t want you buying the wrong products for your space or lifestyle). Lisa shares some of her “go-to” products when it comes to Kitchen organization, including turntables, drawer dividers and using a lid holder to store lids upright (one of my personal faves too!)Make sure to check out the links below to connect with Lisa or to find anything we talked about in this episode.Make sure to tune in next week as we continue our Room by Room Organizing Series with Closets! If you know someone who could benefit from this episode, do them a favor and forward to them!XOXO-LaurieP.S. If you are a professional organizer or thinking about becoming one, we’d love to chat with you to see if the SBO Partner Program is a good fit for you!CONNECT WITH LISA:WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOKLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:BOOK: The World Needs More Purple PeopleLID HOLDER | TURNTABLES | DRAWER DIVIDERS