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

Happy Thanksgiving friends!Today’s Thanksgiving episode has been inspired by and dedicated to the life of my dear friend Rick Hall who unexpectedly passed away suddenly at the age of 54 a few weeks ago.If you’re a long-time listener of TOL, you may recall hearing Rick on episode 178 where we talked about Spring Cleaning under Quarantine (FYI: he secretly wanted to be my co-host!)As I was preparing my annual Thanksgiving episode, I found myself reflecting on all of the things for which I am most grateful. As I sat quietly on my back porch with a cup of coffee, I kept coming back to Rick; how he lived and the life lessons he taught me. As you read through this list, you’ll see there is not one mention of material things (although he did love his Converse collection!)So here goes…Practice Gratitude-I made this a daily practice in 2018 and it has changed how I look at life. Even in our darkest moments, there is always something to be grateful for. You never know how much time you have left, so live every day with intention  One practical tip:Change your language from "I have to" to " I get to"  Be Present- One-One attention has become a priceless commodity. If you've ever tried to get someone's attention when they are distracted, it's a crappy feeling. On the flip side, when you give someone your undivided attention you are showing them that they matter.  One practical tip:put your phone away when you are with others. If you need to be reachable for loved ones, let them know that in case of emergency to call, rather than text, because you won't be looking at your phone for a while.  Prioritize people over things-especially during the holiday season, surround yourself with people who matter to you-it’s so much more fulfilling and life-giving than stuff.  One practical tip: Don't wait to have someone over until your home is “perfect”, memories are made between humans, not stuff.  Relationships Matter- We are built for community and connection.You never know the impact you’re going to have on someone else's life. Which brings me to the next lesson...Tell people that you love them-Rick ended every conversation with “love ya sis” and he meant it. He also gave the best hugs. Sometimes our best form of communication is non-verbal.  One practical tip: If you’re not a mushy person, that’s ok-me either. Write someone a letter or send them a text-don’t ever assume that someone knows how much you care about them.  Live Selflessly- This doesn’t have to be epic. A small gesture like bringing someone a meal, or paying for someone's coffee can have a ripple effect on your mood and those who you have impacted.  One practical tip: Don't add to your already full plate. Try incorporating small acts of service in your daily routine and watch what happens.  Be authentic-This is one of my core values. If people don’t love you for who you are, then they are not your people.  One practical tip: Remember that we don’t always have to agree, but we can still love one another.  I hope that by sharing these life lessons with you, I can continue his legacy of kindness and generosity.Happy Thanksgiving!XOXO-LauriePlease support us! FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter? Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess! Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with Me WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi, Friends! Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey?Joining me today is Amber Hawley. Amber is a licensed therapist, multiple biz owner and former tech industry dropout. She hosts the Easily Distracted Entrepreneur podcast, where she supports ADHD {and ADHD-ish} business owners to overcome what she calls “shiny object syndrome.”Amber & her husband have both struggled with ADHD and we speak candidly about strategies for overcoming distractions in both home and business.During our conversation Amber shares:How she craves organization as a way to reclaim controlThe struggle to NOT do all the things (and strategies on how to work through it)The importance of delegating (and how to do it)      If you or someone you love struggles with ADHD, this is a must-listen episode.Amber reminds us that with the right strategies, anyone can live an organized life.Make sure to check out the links we talked about below in our show notes, including her Free Shiny Object Checklist.XOXO-LauriePrefer to watch our conversation? Click HERE to head over to our Youtube channel!CONNECT WITH AMBER: WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | YOUTUBE | LINKEDINAMBER'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION WILD SUCCULENT WOMAN Please support us! FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show! Struggling with Clutter? Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz! Stop feeling like a Hot Mess! HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold. Connect with Me WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi Friends!It’s one of my favorite episodes of the year…our Holiday Gift Guide! We’re posting it early this year to help you get a jumpstart on your shopping.Joining me is none other than THE Joshua Palau. We spent the hour sharing our favorite gift ideas with y’all. Each of our lists have been researched and curated on our own, without sponsorship, or input from anyone else.Don’t worry about grabbing a pen, we’ve got you covered. We’ve included all links mentioned in the episode for you below in the show notes.We round out the episode by sharing some tips to keep your gift giving under control (make sure to download our holiday gift tracker!)This is one episode you won’t want to miss!XOXO-LaurieJoshua’s Picks:ExperiencesBroadway is Back –  (but also local theatres)ColdplayBillie EIlishBoston Calling Music FestivalContentThe Every – Dave EggersRenegadesPaul Mccarthy – The LyricsAudibleLuminaryAthleisure and FashionJordan 1 LowsVuori – Kore Shorts are my favoriteMack WeldonWFHStanding DeskTiny dry erase boardOn Air SignLaurie’s Picks:Fav One-Stop Shops:1. Willinglee.co:• Local Austin• Give back 1% of sales• Support local artisans2. Gold Belly• Sustainable• Supports Community• Personalized Creature Comforts3. Mark & Graham: Monogrammed central!● Great customer service● Great packaging● High end looks and affordable prices● customizablei. Travel Jewelry Caseii. Catchall trayiii. Packing cubesiv. Eyeglasses trayv. Watch boxvi. Gardening bagvii. Manicure setviii. Wine totesix. cord(tech) organizers4. Uncommon Goods• Based in brooklyn• Support local artisans• Certified B corp• Pay fair living wage• Paid time off for maternity & paternity leave and caring for aging parentsHoliday Gift Planning Guide:1. Make a list (don’t forget postal carrier, hairdresser, teachers, garbage collectors, etc)2. Set a budget (don’t overspend)3. Shop early (shipping delays)4. Designate a holding location5. Keep track of incoming and pending gifts6. Keep a folder/envelope of receipts (toss after the holidays!)7. Simplify wrapping (different wrapping per person, or same wrapping different bows)Download our Holiday Gift TrackerJOSHUA’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSMALIBU RISING | WE ARE THE BRENNANSPlease support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi Friends!Did you know that 20% more people are projected to move in 2021 than in 2020?Today I am joined by blogger and author of  The Art of Happy Moving, Ali Wenzke. Ali and her husband Dan have moved 10 times in 11 years across six states and now reside in the Chicago suburbs with their 3 kiddos.During our conversation,  Ali shares both tactical and practical strategies like:Trying to find people and resources in your new location before you movePacking strategies to simplify the “unpack” processCreating a “heart box” with your must-have favorite itemsWhich rooms she recommends unpacking firstShe talks about creating a “bucket list” before you move and the importance of a healthy mindset to offset what can be a stressful time in your life.Make sure to download Ali’s moving checklist that is filled with great tips and ideas!XOXO-LauriePrefer to watch our conversation?Click HERE to head over to our Youtube channel!CONNECT WITH ALIWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTERBUY HER BOOKALI’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSANYTHING BY KRISTIN HANNAH OR FREDRIK BACKMANPlease support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls.Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi friends! Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey? Joining me today is SBO Partner, Janelle Azar, founder and owner of A Meaningful Space based in Michigan.  As a professional organizer, she specializes in residential organizing, moving and relocations, and closet design. She is also Enneagram 1 aka, the Perfectionist or Improver (which we will talk about!)I invited Janelle on TOL to talk about travel organization.  With more people returning to travel whether for work or pleasure, I thought we could all use a refresher on travel tips 101.  As an avid traveler, Janelle has tapped into her “organizing brain” and streamlined and simplified the process into 2 phases: Planning & Packing.During our conversation she walks us through the details of  her 5 step process:Step 1: is to Research your DestinationStep 2: Start Packing EarlyStep 3: Consider the EssentialsStep 4: Packing the SuitcaseStep 5: Must Have items in your Carry On/Personal ToteWhether you are hopping in the car, bus, train or plane, there’s something in this episode for everyone.Make sure to download Janelle’s Free Travel Checklist before you go!XOXO-LaurieP.S. When it comes to packing, do you prefer to roll or fold? We want to know!CONNECT WITH JANELLEWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOKJANELLE’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSDON’T KEEP YOUR DAY JOBPlease support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey?Hi Friends!You’re going to love today’s guest--joining me today is Marian Parsons.​Marian Parson is a pastor's wife, mother of two boys, paint enthusiast, lover of all things home and owner of Miss Mustard Seed, an online resource for making your home beautiful and inviting.  With the holidays just around the corner, I thought it would be fitting to have Marian on the show to talk about her new book Feels Like Home .During our conversation we unpackWhy people seem to crave encouragement in the areas of creating a warm and inviting homeThe cross-over between organization and decoratingHow to keep things simple while entertainingHow a quick “room reset” can make you feel as though you’ve had a complete makeover!  I love Marian’s advice on how to create a “living mood board” in your home, regardless of budget or design expertise.For more information on Marian, make sure to check out the links below.XOXO-LaurieCONNECT WITH MARIANWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | PODCASTMARIAN’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSSTEAL LIKE AN ARTIST | KEEP GOING | THE PRACTICEPlease support us! FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter? Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess! Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with Me WEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi Friends!Today I am joined by home organizing expert, Shira Gill. Shira is known for her online makeover programs, popular lifestyle blog, and Instagram feed that have inspired a global audience.She can now add author to her list of accomplishments! Her new book, Minimalista Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Better Home, Wardrobe, and Life, is due to release on Nov 2nd.I invited Shira on the show to talk about all the things…How she got startedWhat her life was like growing upHow her childhood relationship with clutter and organization has shaped how she parents, lives and runs her business  In the second half of the show we dive into her new book, including her 5 step process that she uses with her clients. Her book is filled with gorgeous images designed to inspire you.I’m so grateful to be surrounded by friends and colleagues like Shira who continue to inspire and empower others to live simply and love their space.I hope you enjoy this honest conversation as much as I did!XOXO-LaurieIf you are a professional organizer or thinking about becoming one, I’d love to hear from you. I currently have openings for 5 one-one mentor spots and our group partner program continues to grow! Schedule a free intake call to see if it’s a right fit for you!  CONNECT WITH SHIRAWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | MINIMALISTA BOOK SHIRA’S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONTHE COMPOUND EFFECT Please support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW. Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show! Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz! Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold. Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

We are always looking for ways to improve our show. Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey ? One of the many comments I hear as a professional organizer is “I wish I could afford to hire someone like you!”The truth of the matter is that getting organized does require time and a level of intentionality, but it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.Dave Ramsey says “where a person spends money is a reflection of their priorities,” and I have seen that play out in my own life. If someone handed me $500 I would rather go out to a nice dinner with friends, or put it towards a home improvement project. Whereas someone else might want to go on a shopping spree or put it towards a vacation.There’s no right or wrong answer, it’s simply a matter of priorities. Even if no one is handing you a stack of Benjamins, if you want to get organized, I assure you that you can do it on a shoestring budget.The greatest organizing tools I have to offer you are vision, strategy and a plan of action. Today I am going to walk you through my exact process that I do with my clients. It’s completely free, the only investment is your time. You can always add the fancy bins later if you so choose.Before you begin, I want you to ask yourself 2 very important questions:“Do I want less stuff or do I just want to know where my stuff is?”“What's more important to me, stuff or space?”When we look at IG or Pinterest, there’s one common theme-LESS. Lots of white space, in between shelves, hanging rods, under cabinets. Which leads me to point #2- I recommend using social media for inspiration, but be mindful of trying to keep up with the Jones. You can accomplish much of what you see online with stuff you have in your home, or inexpensively-you don’t have to have a custom closet and bins from the Container Store to have an organized space.Before you dig in, come prepared with the essentials:Bins to sortBags to donatePost-its or label roll to temporarily label categoriesMusic/podcast to keep you motivatedPick one space to declutter and set a limit on how long you are committing to stay there (ie: until this space is done, for 20 min, 2 hours…) The time doesn’t matter as much as following through on your commitment.     5. Here’s where my 4 pile method comes into play. As you are emptying the contents, sort the items into these piles: KEEP (in that space only)DONATERECYCLE RELOCATE (anything you want to keep, but doesn’t live in the space you are organizing. This can mean it’s going to a different room, or going into memorabilia, or getting returned to someone.)     6. Once you’re done, now it’s time to ZONE, Corral, Contain. This is where you can get creative, and figure out what products will make you feel good about your space--remember, an organized space needs to accomplish 2 things: HOW IT MAKES YOU FEELHOW QUICKLY CAN I FIND WHAT I AM LOOKING FOR? Regardless of where you are in your life with age or financially, you are capable and deserving of living an organized life. I’m here for you every step of the way!XOXO-LaurieLINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODETAKE THE LISTENER SURVEY  SBO Partners  FREE CHECKLISTS & RESOURCES  Please support us!FOLLOW TOL t o have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls. Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon , barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi Friends,Before we get into today’s episode, will you please take a moment to fill out our short listener survey? Today I am joined by Amanda Cunningham, founder of The Glory Days Co., a company that provides organizational tools for parents and caregivers of special needs children.Amanda shares her story of giving birth to her beautiful daughter Aurora “Rory” and finding out upon her arrival that she had Down Syndrome. She walks us through the early months following Rory’s birth and speaks candidly about how she struggled with feelings of overwhelm. From attending weekly doctors and therapy appointments, to wading through the unexpected newness of becoming a stay-at-home mom.When looking for tools to support her in this new role as a special needs parent, she couldn’t find anything that encompassed everything Rory needed. So Amanda created her own planner filled with checklists, calendar, daily tasks and a robust notes section to document the countless appointments and therapies required to help Rory thrive, and now helps parents everywhere do the same.During our conversation we talk about:Her unexpected transition to stay-at-home caregiver from working professionalThe role that both physical and calendar organizers play in raising a child with special needsThe importance of routines to help everyone to flourishOctober is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, I encourage you to check out The Glory Days Co-for free downloads, articles and some amazing products.CONNECT WITH AMANDAWEBSITE | INSTAGRAM | BLOG AMANDA'S BOOK RECOMMENDATIONSRISING STRONG | THE BLESSING | THE LUCKY FEW Please support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls. Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon ,barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST

Hi Friends!Whether you are heading back into the office or on day 7,693,421 of working from home-finding motivation can be a struggle. Studies show that when we lack motivation, our productivity decreases. So the question becomes: “how do we find motivation?”To answer that question, I invited Grace Treutel to share some insight with us. Grace is the Manager of Culture at a rapidly growing eCommerce startup where she helps colleagues get more organized within their workflows and navigate company culture, which results in a healthier work environment. She is also the host and producer of The Standard Office Procedures, a podcast that aims to help professionals grow and prosper through culture, communication, and candor. On the personal side, Grace is a mom to two littles, so she knows what it’s like to have your motivation sucked out of you on a daily basis-jk!During our conversation, Grace walks us through some everyday struggles and shares some tactical steps that you can use in the office, at home, or in an academic setting (hello students!)I loved the part of our conversation when Grace talks about how we can show up for our coworkers or colleagues rather than waiting for them to ask for help (which is often hard to do). Make sure to check out the links below for everything we talked about on the show.Prefer to watch our conversation?Click HERE to head over to our Youtube channel!Connect with Blue Summit Supplies:INSTAGRAM | FACEBOOK | TWITTER  STANDARD OFFICE PROCEDURES PODCAST Grace’s Book RecommendationsRADICAL CANDOR | YES, PLEASE Please support us!FOLLOW TOL to have new episodes downloaded each week!REVIEW . Social influence is the most impactful way to help others find our show!Struggling with Clutter?Click HERE to take our FREE clutter quiz!Stop feeling like a Hot Mess!HOT MESS: A Practical Guide to Getting Organized is my witty little survival guide that helps you get to the root of your clutter. Learn about the 3 types of clutter, Physical, Emotional, and Calendar, along with how to avoid the 5 Clutter Pitfalls. Now is the time to reclaim time, find freedom, and feel empowered from the “stuff” that is holding you back.Available on amazon, barnes & noble or wherever books are sold.Connect with MeWEBSITE | FB | IG | PINTEREST