One of the first questions we ask clients is if they want just function OR function and beauty in their newly organized space? Lots of people are only looking for function in their space. They just want it to work and don’t care if all their baskets match or if their bins are clear. Their goal is to have a home for everything and be able to find their stuff. They want to be “organized enough” and are not searching for perfection. There is a philosophy in the Organizing profession that supports being “organized enough”. When appropriate, we support the philosophy of “organized enough”, because every client is different, so the trick is to meet them where they live and guide them to their individual goals for their space. And, let’s be honest, the cost of installing matching containers can be pricey.
However, beyond the obvious, there is something to be said for the added aesthetic component to organizing. We have never tracked this and have no scientific basis; however, we generally find that those who choose their space to be both functional and visually appealing tend to maintain the space longer. The reasons could be varied. Maybe it’s about the personality of someone who prefers function and beauty or maybe they’re wired to maintain the space? Maybe the simplicity of the space inspires maintenance or the space is just too lovely not to maintain? My guess is that it’s a combination of all the above. Whatever the reason, it might be worth considering adding a little beauty to your function and see what happens.
Getting and staying organized is a process that changes as our lives change. You will have to adjust and adapt as you go through life. The more stuff you have the more expensive it is mentally, emotionally, physically and financially. And, one fact to bear in mind is that you can’t organize yourself out of too much stuff. If you have too much stuff for the space, maintenance is next to impossible. The good news is that there is help and you don’t have to organize alone. If you are local, give us a call or schedule a free consult. Otherwise, look up your local NAPO (National Association of Productivity and Professional Organizer) chapter to find an organizer in your area.
Darla Pompilio
Your Tasks Our Time, LLC
