Have you ever hired a professional organizer? I started working with specialists in this new-ish industry over 20 years ago and found it life-altering. These women–there are some male organizers, but I’ve worked only with women to date–have a way of knowing how to consolidate space, things, and time in mind-bending ways for this methodical soul.
My first organizer, back in the 90’s, solved every issue I whined about, and I was a convert. Subsequent re-arranging and moving experiences have been equally transformational. So, I called my second organizer, Betsy Krobot, to figure out how to gain some creative space in my NYC apartment.
Because she’s in CT, we used FaceTime for her to see my layout and spatial issue. First, I had to show her what I was up to in the creativity department. I gave her a tour of the pillows I’ve made since mid-March and the wall hanging I’m currently working on. I could feel her desire to help me find coveted space intensify the more we spoke, and she experienced my total excitement with my new medium.
“If you get rid of that bookshelf/hutch unit and clear away two of the file cabinet drawers below, you’ll be able to have a clean desktop to use for drawing, sewing, and spreading out your materials. You’ll also have knee room, so you can roll your desk chair over there when you want to move away from the computer.” I instantly saw her vision, though would never have come up with it myself in a hundred years. But I knew getting rid of all those possessions was a big IF.
Where to put all that precious stuff? I’ve moved three times in the last ten years, so many of my treasures have been dispersed. Back then, I let go of hundreds of books and do feel a pang of jealousy with every zoom room I see: colleagues’ and friends’ walls lined with their volumes. Marie Kondo wouldn’t approve, but I feel a tad envious of their retained libraries.
What will people think of my background? I worry momentarily. Betsy wasn’t worried. She knows how life-changing it is to let go. I know it, too, but forget. She didn’t offer a Plan B.
I’ve spent the last few days clearing those drawers and making decisions for what to do with the contents. Everything remaining now will serve the artistic as well as coaching aspects of my business. I’m going to order a large pegboard so my supplies can be visible and within reach – scissors, measuring tools, templates, etc. One of my favorite memories of my dad was the workspace he designed for himself in our basement. He had a large pegboard on which he hung his tools, and suspended cups for the different-sized nails and screws. In my mind, each tool was outlined so he would know exactly where to re-hang it after its use. Sadly, I don’t actually remember his being down there much, but the visual of that wall remains indelible in my mind’s eye.
I obeyed Betsy’s command and am excited to have the surface below the hutch open and available for spreading out my wools and threads. Would YOU like to have this piece of furniture? If you can come and take it away–socially distanced, of course– it’ll go to the first responder at no cost.
Jane, you are an inspiration! The clarity of your thinking is the first thing I admire in this post. And next, how smart to find expert advice. Then the dogged pursuit of the goal. This is the essence of what lies ahead of me. Living with furniture inherited from the previous generation (that I may not actually love) which is of little to no interest to the next generation. I see my first task is getting crystal clear about what I want. And establishing a singleness of purpose to each step. Brilliant!
@Barbara I didn’t see an earlier reply to this, so wanted to say thank you for commenting. There was a movie a decade or so ago on this subject. I think it was French – a home filled with museum quality heirlooms that no one wanted. I vote for getting rid of what you don’t actually love and filling your space with ONLY things you truly love. How’s that for advice?!
Hi Jane,
I agree with Barbara’s comments about your clarity of thinking and solutions for tackling your goals. I hired Betsy Krobot years ago to organize my home office and she was a godsend. The next project I’d like to tackle is our finished basement which my 15-year old has claimed as his classroom & gaming room. He’s sitting amongst the clutter of 5 decades of old photos, framed pictures and boxes of memorabilia that I need to part with. I started going thru the photos a year ago, tossing many and organizing them my decade. I have much left to do and need another push in the right direction! Would love any advice others can share :).
@Denise I strongly suggest going with a pro…if you want to actually complete the project. There’s also a photo organizers’ association whose specialty is exactly what you need. Thanks so much for your comment.
Hi Jane!
I loved the piece on organization. Especially the mention of your dad’s pegboard . I brought such a dear fond memory of my father’s toolshed, which was immaculately organized – to the extent that when he passed away, I actually took a picture of his pegboard with the outlines for each tool. It was a thing of practicality and beauty combined. We each find ways to make the processes we need and work we love more efficient and accessible to deal with. Thank you for the lovely piece of writing. I will always remember our inspiring chats on the ship, your excellent lecture to the whole ship community (and of course that jacket!). All the best, Ingrid
@Ingrid How lovely to bond on our father’s tools!! I wished I’d taken a photo. Thank you for the validation about making the processes we need and work with more efficient and accessible. I’m looking forward to no longer squeezing into a tiny corner of my current desk area. That jacket! I think of you every time I wear it. xo
Love this post for many reasons Jane. Since I used to be a residential organizer I love hearing your side of the story and results and all the work you did. And my dad also had a pegboard of tools in his workshop that we both worked on a lot. Tools have always been a big part of my world. Thank you for this blog post. Loved it.
@Bonnie Thank you!! I’m a huge fan of your profession and have many like-minded women in your ranks, particularly YOU! I appreciate your kind words.