Feeling Overwhelmed by Clutter? 3 Things to Consider Before Hiring a Professional Organizer

By the time most people reach out to hire a professional organizer, something has already pushed them to their breaking point. Maybe it’s tripping over too many toys, arguing over who’s responsible for picking things up, getting another late fee, or spending twenty minutes hunting for keys in a cluttered kitchen. For many, the stress isn’t just about the mess—it’s the guilt, shame, and overwhelm that come with it, and the feeling that nothing they try ever seems to stick.

Many people I work with are capable, busy, and deeply intentional—but they still feel like clutter has taken over their homes and their minds. And often, the frustration isn’t about the stuff itself; it’s about how their routines, habits, and systems haven’t been designed to actually support the way they live.

Before hiring a professional organizer—or attempting another weekend purge—here are three things worth considering:

1. Habits matter more than storage.
Organization lasts when systems match how you actually live—not just because of bins, labels, or Pinterest inspiration. Small, repeatable habits—putting things away immediately, dealing with mail consistently, resetting a space at the end of the day—are the foundation of lasting order.

2. Behavior is feedback, not failure.
Where clutter lands is rarely random. Shoes by the door, backpacks in the corner, papers piled on the counter—these patterns are clues, not evidence of laziness. When we observe behavior without judgment, we can create systems that actually work for real life.

3. Personality shapes what will (and won’t) work.
Some people thrive with visible systems; others prefer things tucked away. Some want strict routines; others need flexibility. Sustainable organization happens when systems align with who you are—not who you think you should be.

Getting organized isn’t about perfection or Pinterest-worthy spaces. It’s about creating simple, sustainable systems that give you back your time, space, and peace of mind. When habits, behavior, and personality are considered together, organization stops feeling like a chore and starts supporting your life instead of fighting it.

Laurie Palau is a professional organizer, speaker, author, and certified Enneagram coach. She’s helped thousands of people understand their habits, reduce overwhelm, and create homes that support how they truly live.

To learn more, visit: https://simplyborganized.com/

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Content provided by Women Belong member  Laurie Palau