“Virtual Organizing: Not Just For a Pandemic”

Virtual Organizing:

Not Just For a Pandemic

Introduction

After sheltering in place for the majority of 2020, and living for several years in an environment that continues to be uncertain, clients are looking at their homes and offices as places where they can still exercise a modicum of control. Creating systems, being organized, and feeling the attendant sense of peace is crucial to that exercise. But how is that possible if we can’t let people into our homes or workplaces, for any number of reasons?

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Virtual Organizing

Connect

Enter Virtual Organizing (VO), which uses technology to connect organizing professional with client. Over a video platform, or even with still photos and a phone, the professional can guide the client through the organizing process, as long as the client is physically able to do the work.

Create a New

System

A virtual session can be useful when someone needs to create a new system at work and internal guidance is non-existent, is still working from home and balancing personal and professional lives, or may be comfortable with video technology but shuts down when faced with having to create a digital file system.

Virtual Organizing is a Lifeline

VO is good for clients’ physical and mental health.

Many of my clients are chronically disorganized and/or have brain-based conditions that inhibit their ability or desire to get organized.

Depressed clients may take to their beds and not get up for days. Result: a neglected house.

A virtual organizing session forces the client to get out of bed, gives a purpose to their day, gets their blood flowing, and encourages them to get things done. Moving around, doing the actual organizing, brings oxygen to the brain, promoting focus and enhancing mood.

People with Hoarding Disorder or OCD can get help without having to let someone in. The organizer sees only a screen- or photo-worth of space, removing feelings of embarrassment or shame.

For people who live alone, Virtual Organizing is a lifeline. Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness can contribute to premature death. The virtual session may be the only social interaction a client may have that day.

 

Brain: Organize Thyself

Neuroplasticity is the brain’s ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections, essential for coping with a constantly changing environment.

Virtual Organizing creates new neural pathways.

Since clients must physically participate in the process, they learn new skills.  During on-site sessions, the organizing professional may do most of the work, and the client may tune out or get distracted.

Repetition, Repetition, Repetition

Repetition is the key to building neural pathways. Virtual Organizing sessions are often shorter and more frequent than on-site sessions and focus on organizing concepts. This serves clients with attention challenges by: 

  • Keeping the momentum going
  • Preventing backsliding
  • Creating more structure and accountability
  • Supporting clients to overcome procrastination

The organizing process is sped up, and clients gain insight into their thought processes, emotions, and perspectives.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD®, CVOP, is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized. 

Note: A version of this article was originally published in the November 2020 edition of 24/Seven, the magazine of the lifestyle brand Change Your Attitude, Change Your Life.

“Declutter and Revamp Your Kitchen This Fall: Expert Strategies for a Cozy, Efficient Space”

Best Ways to Organize

Your Kitchen for Fall

Introduction

As fall arrives and the leaves turn color, it’s time to refresh and declutter your kitchen. Fall brings cozy gatherings, hearty meals, and a shift in kitchen needs. Therefore, organizing your kitchen now will help you stay efficient and ready for pumpkin pie baking and family dinners. In this guide, we’ll explore the best ways to declutter and organize your kitchen for fall.

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Seasonal Kitchen Organization

Tips

Fall is the perfect time for a kitchen makeover. To begin, check your current layout and look for areas that need improvement. Maximize counter space and ensure easy access to frequently used items. Additionally, rotate seasonal items to the front. For example, place baking supplies and fall harvest containers where they are easy to reach. This strategy helps you transition smoothly into autumn meal prep.

Declutter Your Pantry for Fall

An organized pantry is essential during the busy fall season. Start by removing expired items. Next, group similar items together, such as grains, canned goods, and spices. Furthermore, use clear containers to keep dry goods fresh and visible. By decluttering your pantry, you will streamline your cooking process and make finding ingredients quicker during fall gatherings.

Optimize Your Kitchen

Layout

Rearranging your kitchen layout can significantly boost efficiency. For fall, consider these adjustments:

  • Create a Baking Station: Set up a dedicated area for baking essentials like flour, sugar, and baking powders. This arrangement makes holiday treat preparation easier.
  • Organize Utensil Drawers: Use drawer dividers to keep utensils and tools neatly organized. This helps avoid clutter and saves time.
  • Maximize Storage Space: Use vertical storage and cabinet organizers to fully utilize your kitchen space.

Organize Kitchen Appliances for Autumn

You will likely use kitchen appliances more often in fall. Therefore, designate a specific area for appliances like slow cookers, mixers, and blenders. Additionally, use appliance garages or shelves to store them when not in use. Ensure that frequently used appliances are easily accessible for your convenience.

Fall Kitchen Cleaning

Checklist

A clean kitchen is key to efficient cooking. Follow this fall cleaning checklist to get started:

  • Wipe Down Cabinets and Countertops: Remove dust and grime that have accumulated over the past months.
  • Clean the Oven and Range: Scrub away spills and stains, ensuring your oven is ready for baking.
  • Organize and Clean the Fridge: Clear out expired items and clean the shelves thoroughly.

Storage Solutions for Fall Cooking Essentials

Prepare for hearty fall meals with smart storage solutions. Invest in stackable containers for bulk items like flour and sugar. Use clear bins for vegetables and fruits to keep them fresh. Moreover, label all containers for easy identification during busy cooking sessions.

CONCLUSION

Organizing your kitchen for fall improves both efficiency and comfort. By following these tips—ranging from decluttering your pantry to optimizing your layout—you will be ready for autumn. A refreshed kitchen will support all your fall cooking and entertaining needs.

author

Gayle M. Gruenberg

Gayle M. Gruenberg, CPO-CD® is the Chief Executive Organizer of Let’s Get Organized, LLC, an award-winning professional organizing firm based in Bergen County, New Jersey. Gayle is the creator of the Make Space for Blessings™ system. LGO works with busy families to help them find more time, space, money, and energy and connect their lives to their core values through being organized.