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Finding Clarity: Organizing My Space During Divorce by Nicholl McGuire

Divorce is tough, filled with a mix of emotions, decisions, and changes. In the midst of this drama, years ago I found that organizing my living space became not just a task, but a form of therapy and a way to reclaim my sense of self. Here’s how I navigated the process of organizing my dwelling while going through a divorce. 

1. Acknowledging the Emotional Challenges

The first step was recognizing the emotional toll that the divorce was taking on me. Our townhouse, once a sanctuary, had felt heavy with memories that were both beautiful and painful. I made the decision to move with my children. I understood that before I could move on, I needed to confront my feelings. I took some time to reflect, journaling about my emotions and the changes I was experiencing. Church visits  helped both on and offline. I also had supportive loved ones who didn't mind listening to me cry.

 2. Setting Realistic Goals

Once I had acknowledged my feelings, I set practical goals for relocating and moving into my new living space with my children who would be living with me part-time. My primary objective was to create an environment that felt calm and welcoming. I wanted our dwelling to be a reflection of the new chapter in our lives, where we could feel safe and inspired. I broke down the organizing process into manageable tasks, tackling one room or area at a time. I started out with a one bedroom and converted the livingroom space into a childrens' bedroom until later we moved into a two bedroom apartment. We were off to a great start!

3. Decluttering with Purpose

Decluttering became a cathartic experience. As I sifted through belongings, I asked myself if each item brought me joy or served a purpose in my new life. I asked the children what they still liked and what was okay to let other children enjoy. Surprisingly, they had outgrew many things and was open to new toys in the future. I found it helpful to categorize items into three piles: keep, donate, and discard. The act of letting go of things that no longer served us was liberating. I donated several items to local charities and sold some things that we couldn't use or didn't fit, knowing that they would help others while also lightening my emotional load.

4. Creating Comfortable Functional Spaces

With the clutter cleared, we were ready to move with less stuff. I focused on creating functional spaces that suited our needs at our new apartment. I rearranged furniture to create small study and playing areas. This not only optimized our living space but also helped us mentally. I transformed a corner of my bedroom so that I could sit on the floor and relax or work in peace, complete with decorative decor, creating a room of serenity.

 5. Embracing Minimalism

When I started to clean, I found the joy of "minimalism" back then long before I knew it was a word. Simplifying my environment had tamed the chaos from the move, and I felt clear and at peace. I have since adopted a more intentional approach to my possessions, opting for quality over quantity. A simple living space, a bed, a chair, and a small table or desk along with a bookshelf and small storage drawers and accessories was good enough for each room. This change not only made my new space look larger, but also reflected the emotional simplicity I was aiming for in our lives.

6. Seeking Support

I realized I didn’t have to do this alone, but I chose to until my children and I were comfortable inviting loved ones over. Once we were ready, sharing this experience with others not only lightened the burden but also provided me with different perspectives and encouragement.

7. Celebrating Progress

Every small victory in the organizing process was worth celebrating. I took moments to appreciate the changes with the move and our new space. I hung up a few of our favorite art pieces, reminding my children and myself of our passions and dreams. Creating a space that felt authentically theirs and mine was a crucial part of moving forward.

Conclusion: A Fresh Start

Organizing our new dwelling during the divorce was more than just a physical task; it was a journey of self-discovery and healing for the children and myself. Each step I took in reshaping our environments helped us emotionally and find a sense of stability for us. As I moved forward into my new chapter during a challenging time in our lives, those apartments (the first one bedroom and later the second apartment with two bedrooms) became a reflection of my resilience and hope for the future. 

Since the divorce, my young playful children grew up to be loving and responsible adults. They have thanked me for doing what I could to build good homes for them. They were tearful when they recalled my commitment to serving and helping them grow. With smiles and hugs, they laugh about some of those days and are forever grateful about those home-cooked meals we enjoyed and still do to date!

Years ago, I learned that while divorce may close one door, it also opens another, inviting us to create a space that nurtures our growth and well-being. You got this!

Nicholl McGuire is the author of When Mothers Cry available on Amazon and other online bookstores.

When You Know It’s Time to Call a Professional Home Organizer

In today’s fast-paced world, our homes should be our sanctuaries. However, for many of us, the clutter and chaos can feel overwhelming. If you find yourself staring at a mountain of unorganized belongings, you might be wondering: Is it time to hire a professional home organizer? Here are some relatable signs that could indicate it’s time to seek help.

1. The Stress of Clutter is Affecting Your Life

Have you ever walked into a room and felt an immediate wave of stress? Clutter can weigh heavily on our minds. If you find yourself feeling anxious or overwhelmed every time you step into your home, it might be a sign that you need assistance. 

Example: Imagine coming home after a long day, only to be greeted by piles of laundry and stacks of paperwork. Instead of feeling relaxed, you feel a knot in your stomach. A professional home organizer can help create a serene environment, allowing you to unwind.

2. You’re Constantly Losing Things

Do you spend more time searching for your keys or that elusive remote than enjoying your home? If misplacing items has become a daily frustration, it could be time to bring in an expert.

Example: Picture this: You’re running late for work, and you can’t find your wallet. You tear through drawers and bags, only to find it in the most unexpected place. A professional can help you establish systems that keep everything in its rightful spot, saving you time and stress.

3. You’re Overwhelmed by the Thought of Organizing

Sometimes, the mere thought of organizing can feel paralyzing. If you’ve got the intention but lack the motivation or know-how, a professional organizer can guide you through the process.

You might have a garage full of boxes and no idea where to start. Instead of diving in and feeling defeated, imagine working alongside someone who can break it down into manageable tasks, making the process feel less daunting.

4. You’re Moving or Downsizing

Life changes, and so do our needs. Whether you’re moving to a new home or downsizing to a smaller space, the amount of stuff you own can become overwhelming. 

Think about your childhood home filled with memories and belongings that no longer serve you. A professional organizer can help you sort through what to keep, donate, or toss, making your transition smoother and less stressful.

5. You’re Experiencing a Major Life Change

Events such as a new baby, a job change, or even the loss of a loved one can leave you feeling disorganized and emotionally drained. 

After having a baby, the last thing you want to deal with is clutter. A professional can help create functional spaces that cater to your new lifestyle, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your family.

6. You Want to Create a Space That Reflects You

Sometimes, we hold onto items that no longer align with who we are or how we want to live. If you’re ready for a change but don’t know where to start, a professional can help you curate a space that reflects your values and style.

Perhaps your living room is filled with mismatched furniture and decor from years past. A professional organizer can assist in selecting pieces that not only fit your aesthetic but also serve a purpose.

 Conclusion

Hiring a professional home organizer is not just about decluttering; it’s about transforming your space into one that enhances your quality of life. If you resonate with any of the scenarios above, consider reaching out for help. Remember, seeking assistance is a sign of strength, not weakness. Embrace the opportunity to create a home that brings you joy and peace, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. 

Your sanctuary awaits! Check out local home organizers in your area today!

Transform Your Space: A DIY Guide to Home Organization

Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter in your home? Do you dream of a beautifully organized space but think hiring a professional interior decorator is your only option? Fear not! With a little creativity and some guidance, you can tackle the mess yourself. This blog is your ultimate resource for transforming every corner of your home into a haven of organization.

Why Organizing Matters

A well-organized home not only looks good but also enhances your daily life. It reduces stress, saves time, and creates a more inviting atmosphere for family and guests. Whether you’re organizing your bathroom, closet, office, or any other space, the benefits are undeniable.

Room-by-Room Organization Tips

1. Bathroom Bliss

- Declutter: Start by removing expired products and items you no longer use. 

- Storage Solutions: Utilize baskets and drawer organizers to keep toiletries tidy. 

- Vertical Space: Install shelves to maximize storage without sacrificing floor space.

2. Closet Clarity

- Seasonal Switch: Rotate clothes seasonally to keep only what you need accessible.

- Categorize: Organize by type (e.g., shirts, pants) and color for a visually pleasing effect. 

- Utilize Hangers: Use cascading hangers to save space and keep outfits together.

3. Office Order

- Desk Declutter: Clear off your desk and keep only essentials on it.

- File System: Create a filing system for important documents. Use color-coded folders for easy access.

- Digital Declutter: Regularly clean your computer files to stay organized digitally.

4. Drawer Dynamics

- Sort and Conquer: Empty drawers and categorize items. Discard what you no longer need.

- Trays and Dividers: Use trays to separate small items, making it easier to find what you need.

- Labeling: Label drawers for quick identification of contents.

5. Living Room Layout

- Furniture Arrangement: Rearrange furniture to create a more open and inviting space.

- Storage Solutions: Use decorative baskets and ottomans with hidden storage.

- Display Wisely: Showcase your favorite items while keeping clutter at bay.

Getting Started: Your Organization Journey

Start with one room at a time. Set aside a few hours each week to tackle different areas. Remember, organization is a process, not a race! 

Resources to Help You

- Videos: Check out our collection of how-to videos for visual guidance on specific organization projects on this blog.

- Articles: Dive deeper into topics like minimalism, efficient storage solutions, and maintaining your organized space.

- Community Support: Join our blog to share tips, ask questions, and celebrate your organizing victories!

Conclusion

With the right strategies and tools, you can create an organized home that reflects your style and meets your family's needs. Don’t let clutter hold you back—begin your organizing journey today! 

For more inspiration and resources, bookmark this blog and stay tuned for our upcoming posts filled with innovative ideas and expert advice. Happy organizing!

The Home Organizing Team

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