Beth called Sara Jane Organizing for help in organizing her home. With two children under the age of two and both Beth and her partner working, Beth struggled to maintain focus due to her ADHD. Although she enjoyed the responsibility of managing the home and running her photography business, she felt overwhelmed and uncertain about where to start with organizing. With childcare assistance available, she wanted to create a space that catered to her family’s needs and supported her busy lifestyle and ADHD. As a do-it-yourselfer, Beth was looking for a professional organizer who could collaborate with her to organize her home effectively.
Beth had used an in-home organizer in the past and found the experience underwhelming. Beth had a desire to learn the skills the organizers used, but she wasn’t always part of the organizing process. She felt the need to learn techniques and best practices so she would be able to maintain her home regularly. She had a tight budget and couldn’t afford a team of organizers to come to her home regularly.
The Consultation
When Beth and Sara spoke for the initial consultation, Sara had a series of questions she reviewed with Beth. These questions would help determine if Beth was a good candidate for virtual organizing. Sara was looking for the following:
- A desire and eagerness to learn new skills.
- The ability to navigate the home using technology.
- Clear communication of needs and wants.
- Two-hour blocks of uninterrupted time to focus on projects.
- Mobility to lift, move, and rearrange items throughout the house.
- Patience to work through problems and find solutions.
- A good attitude and the ability to laugh and have fun!
After the consultation, Sara realized that Beth was an excellent candidate for virtual organizing. Beth was a verbal processor, clearly expressing her feelings, objections, desires, and struggles to Sara.
She was able to manage technology well and ensure Sara could see the space they would be working in.
She was motivated to complete the work, enjoyed learning, and found the price to be more in line with her budget.
The First Sessions
Beth and Sara set up their first virtual organizing session. The goal was to get Beth’s closet organized. Sara remained on the video call with Beth throughout the session. Beth pulled everything out of the closet, sorted the items, and explained to Sara everything she was doing. Sara answered questions all along the way. Beth was learning sorting techniques, identifying problem areas, and discussing solutions with Sara. After two hours, items were sorted, and a plan was in place for their next session. Beth needed containers and help finding the best storage solutions. Beth measured the space and gave Sara the measurements. Sara found just the right bins to fit and maximize the space, and sent details to Beth so she could buy them in time for their next session. In the next session, they implemented the system they had planned using the bins purchased.
The Results
Beth completely reorganized her closet and discovered space she didn’t know she had. She purged items she no longer needed, and as a result, when unexpected guests arrived, she was able to quickly find sheets, pillowcases, and bedding for the guest room. She reflected on how profound it was to welcome guests without the stress of being unprepared.
Beth was so encouraged and excited that she wanted to do more sessions and apply the skills she learned in those areas. Sara could see that Beth was learning and applying skills. It was a great success, and Beth felt amazing. Sara’s accountability, teaching techniques, and knowledge of organizing, along with Beth’s desire to learn, were a great match. They continue to have success as sessions progress throughout the home.
If you think you might be a good candidate for virtual organizing, set up a phone consultation today. You’ll gain the opportunity to chat with Sara and discuss whether virtual organizing is right for you.
