Backsliding

Once a client makes the decision to start the “organizing process” they have taken the first step towards a more organized life. Most clients don’t really understand that being “organized” is a way of life. For some of us it seems to come naturally. For others it is a learned experience. And for some, it is an unattainable goal.

I tell my clients, over and over again, “being organized is a process….. and once I leave your home after de-cluttering and organizing your space…. it is a process that must be continued and a process that takes time to become your own”.

Some clients get it…..some don’t….

“Backsliding is a client’s regression to a previous disorganized state” (from the NSGCD).

For some organizers and me included it is almost like a failure on our part. We helped the client organize their home….we showed them how…. we explained what we were doing and why…. and still…the next time we visit the client the place is back to the way it was before we got there…or worse.

Some of the things that I have run across were clients that bought everything….except what I told them to buy, postponed appointments, cancelled appointments, the rooms being back in worse shape than when I left, organizing things in a way other than what I told them to….

Organizers don’t always have to “have their own way” ….but they are there for a reason and there is a “method” to what they are doing.

Buying all of the great organizing gadgets that you see at the store….doesn’t make you organized. Only “you” can make yourself organized. So why spend the money?

I try to re-purpose things that the client already has in the home first…..then we might bring in other organizing products. Rushing out to buy products is not the answer.

With backsliding…which is a “normal” client behavior…they might feel bad about how they let the room get back to the “pre-organizer” state…. and then never call you again. It happens to a lot of organizers. But there is no need for the client to be embarrassed. We’ve seen it all….really we have…and as bad as you think your home might be….we’re probably seen worse.

So….don’t beat yourself up over it and jump back into the process.

Backsliding costs you money. By cancelling your appointments and putting them off….you will probably be in a worse state than when you originally called the professional organizer. They will have to spend time getting back to where they left off…and then continuing the organizing process. So instead of spending three hours at your house it will take four or five hours.

Life can get in the way of your “organizing” sessions. Some people tend to think of their organizer as a “luxury” instead of an “investment in themselves”. By having an organized home and life they can save time and money. And they will also feel less stressed and embarrassed by their surroundings.

Less Clutter = Less Stress (SM)

Organizational Consulting Services

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