Merging Families - Organization Needed

When people blend their families together they not only create a new family unit - but they usually also create a lot of excess. As in - extra stuff!

Instead of having one toaster - they now have two. And two sets of living room furniture. And two sets of .... everything!

Merging families - and their "stuff" - takes planning, patience and a willingness to let go. It's now "ours" - instead of "mine".

But where do you start?

It all depends. Are you moving into a new home or will one of you be moving into the other persons home?

If you are moving into a new home then you will need to decide what furniture will fit into the new space. Whose is in better condition? Whose makes more sense? If there are kids involved you will need to be realistic and practical. Fancy furniture and kids usually don't mix. Save yourself some tears and be practical.

If you are moving into the other persons home - well - that's a tough one. You need to start with  honesty and decide what each of you is willing to give up and what each of you needs to feel comfortable.

If you have a favorite chair or a special piece of furniture - let the other person know how you feel. But - make sure that it will actually fit into your new home.

Take a look at all of the duplicates - especially in the kitchen - and decide whose is in better shape. If your toaster is brand new and his is 10 years old - it's a no brainer. But then again - nothing is ever that easy.

If you have older kids - maybe they will want some of the furniture and things for their apartment. If not - you can sell, give away or donate the duplicates.

After you have gotten rid of all of the duplicates - think about your paperwork next - and merging files.

Merging families and households can be stressful. Think about hiring a Professional Organizer to help you with the process. An outsiders' opinion is much easier to accept than that of a family member!


Take our Personal Organizational Assessment to see how organized you really are.


Less Clutter = Less Stress ^SM     in your home, your business and your life 

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