Do you have too much stuff? Do you just want to streamline what you have?
A Professional Organizer is just the person to help you in the process of decluttering, sorting and organizing any space! Find a Professional Organizer who meets your needs, goals and one you feel comfortable with. He/she can be an objective third party who can give you new perspectives on your spaces and maximize their functionality.
As with any field, there are niches and experts in particular areas. Look for a NAPO member who has experience in the type of organizing you desire. NAPO, The National Assoc. of Productivity and Organizing Professionals, is the trade association for the industry.
Why choose a NAPO Professional Organizer?
NAPO Professional Organizers are trained experts in the field who belong to the association and have learned strategies, techniques, ethics, standards and quality of services with all things that are organization- and productivity-related. It is important to hire an Organizer who knows the field, has experience and understanding of the intricacies of handling their clients “Stuff,” mentally and/or physically. A NAPO member hits all those marks.
Can I just have a family member or friend help me instead?
Remember that sometimes family members or friends want to help you in the decluttering and organizing process but may not see eye-to-eye with you on what is or is not important. There may be emotions that get brought into the process from a family member or friend who may have an interest in your items or keeping them in the family. That can mean pressure and guilt. No one likes to have to hold onto items out of guilt and that only brings negative emotions.
Keeping items when there is a purpose and place for them or when the items bring positive thoughts/feelings make much more sense. Positivity begets happiness and that applies when we are dealing with all our "stuff!"
Here’s how a Professional Organizer can help you:
1. Helps with the sorting and deciding process.
2. Helps with figuring out the best way to use valuable storage spaces.
3. Reorganizes the spaces using organizing products on hand or recommended.
4. Fills the role as the objective person in the process.
5. Frees up your time to do the things you want to do.
6. Reduces anxiety and uncertainty by helping to bring a process and game plan to the table.
7. May offer haul away donations and recycling so you can see the progress made.
8. Can offer ongoing maintenance tips/help.
How do I find a NAPO Professional Organizer?
You can find a Professional Organizer in your area by searching this website under Our Chapter, then go to Our Membership Directory. Members are listed there alphabetically but you can also click on Advanced Search to search by County or Organizing specialty.
Nationally, you can go to NAPO.net to search for NAPO National members.
If you have Chronic Disorganization challenges such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, hoarding, etc., you can find an organizing expert at ChallengingDisorganization.org
Happy Organizing!
Post written by Susie Marsh, NAPO Michigan Member and LBSW/owner of Susie's Organization Solutions LLC
