Category: Clean and Organize

Posted in Clean and Organize

The Healing Power of Decluttering

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

The Healing Power of Decluttering: How a Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Space and Mind

Life has a way of piling up, and not just on our to-do lists. Slowly, without even noticing, our homes and offices start to fill with things—possessions, papers, even well-meaning gifts—that eventually become clutter. But this clutter isn’t just physical; it seeps into our minds, creating a kind of noise that disrupts our peace, our productivity, and even our health.

For many, a cluttered space is a reflection of a cluttered mind. It’s hard to concentrate, to relax, or even to feel truly at home when surrounded by chaos. You may find yourself overwhelmed, anxious, or even depressed as your space spirals out of control. This is where the magic of a professional organizer comes in—not just as someone who tidies up, but as a partner in reclaiming your life.

Clutter and Mental Health: The Hidden Connection

Imagine walking into a room that feels light, open, and calm—a place where everything has a home and nothing is out of place. Now, imagine the opposite: a space where every surface is covered, every drawer is crammed, and every corner holds a reminder of something you haven’t gotten to yet. That second scenario can weigh on you, both mentally and physically. Studies show that clutter can increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol, leading to feelings of overwhelm and helplessness. It can rob you of your focus, steal your energy, and even disrupt your sleep.

But it’s not just about the physical mess. Each piece of clutter often carries its own emotional baggage—unmade decisions, unfulfilled promises, and unresolved issues. And that emotional weight can be heavy.

How a Professional Organizer Can Help

When you invite a professional organizer into your space, you’re not just asking for help with cleaning up—you’re inviting transformation. A good organizer understands that decluttering is deeply personal. They approach each space with empathy, knowing that every item has a story, every decision a ripple effect.

Here’s how the process can impact your mental and physical health:

  1. Restoring Order, Reducing Stress: By systematically decluttering and organizing, a professional helps you reclaim your space and, with it, your peace of mind. As your environment becomes more orderly, your mind can follow suit. The weight on your shoulders lightens as your stress levels decrease.
  2. Empowering Decisions: Every item you decide to keep, donate, or discard is a step toward empowerment. You’re taking control, making decisions that reflect your current self and your goals. This act of choosing can be incredibly freeing, reducing anxiety and boosting your self-esteem.
  3. Creating Calm: A decluttered space creates an environment where you can relax and recharge. It becomes a sanctuary, a place where you can breathe deeply, think clearly, and rest completely. Imagine the physical relief of walking into a room that feels calm and welcoming—your body responds to that in powerful ways.
  4. Boosting Productivity: In your office, a clear space leads to a clear mind. You’re able to focus better, work more efficiently, and make decisions more effectively. This boost in productivity isn’t just good for your career—it’s great for your mental health, too.
  5. Supporting Well-being: Beyond the immediate impact, the benefits of a decluttered space extend to your overall well-being. Better sleep, improved relationships, more time for self-care—these are just a few of the long-term rewards you might experience.

Your Journey to a Lighter, Healthier Life

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about making space for what truly matters. It’s about creating an environment that nurtures you and supports your mental and physical health.

As a professional organizer, I’m here to guide you on that journey. Together, we can transform your cluttered space into a place of peace, productivity, and well-being. Because when you declutter your space, you declutter your life—and that’s where true healing begins.

Happy Decluttering!

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Clean and Organize, Declutter

Should I Sell or Stay?

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Why Should I Sell My House Now? The current real estate market is favorable for sellers. Home prices are high, and inventory is low, which means that you could get the perfect price for your home. An organized home can significantly impact its marketability and potential to sell quickly. 

Inventory is Low The National Association of Realtors predicts a low housing inventory throughout 2023. This is a sign you should sell your home because it means homes are in high demand. You’ll have more power to negotiate a better contract.

Possible Decline in Home Prices in the Future The latest read on home prices shows they hit an all-time high, rising 2.3% from the same month last year. That’s a more significant annual gain than the roughly 1% recorded; this comparison will likely be even more critical because prices began falling last August.

Home Sale has Increased One great bonus of a strong seller’s market is that your home value may have increased with demand. Suppose your home appraised for a higher value than previously. In that case, consider cashing in on your home’s equity by selling. If your home value has increased and you have built equity, you can make the profits by selling or renting your home.(Key Takeaways from article www.realtor.com)

With tight inventory levels and still-high prices, the Connecticut housing market shares many similarities with the national market. Here’s a closer look at Connecticut’s current real estate trends and where the market might go for the rest of 2023.

Here are several ways in which an organized home can help sell faster:

Creates a Positive First Impression: When potential buyers walk into a well-organized, clutter-free home, they are more likely to imagine themselves living there. This positive first impression can set the tone for the rest of the viewing.

  • Highlights the Home’s Best Features: An organized space allows buyers to see the home’s features clearly. They can appreciate the layout, size, and potential without distractions from clutter.
  • Facilitates Better Photography: A tidy, organized home photographs better. High-quality listing photos are essential for attracting potential buyers online, where many home searches begin.
  • Maximizes Perceived Space: A clutter-free environment can make a space feel larger. Buyers tend to be drawn to homes that feel spacious and open.
  • Easier for Buyers to Visualize: When a home is organized, buyers can more easily envision themselves living there. They can mentally place their own belongings and see how the space would work for their needs.
  • Highlights Storage and Functional Spaces: Well-organized closets, cabinets, and storage areas demonstrate the home’s functionality. Buyers appreciate ample storage options.
  • Reduces Distractions: Clutter can be distracting and may prevent buyers from seeing the true potential of the space. An organized home allows them to focus on the features and layout.
  • Implies Good Maintenance: An organized home often gives the impression that the property has been well-maintained. This can instill confidence in potential buyers that they won’t face hidden issues.
  • Suggests the Home is Move-In Ready: A clean and organized home implies that it’s ready for a new owner to move in without the hassle of extensive cleaning or repairs.
  • Foster Emotional Connection: A well-organized home can create an emotional connection with potential buyers. They may feel more comfortable and “at home” during a viewing.
  • Encourages Higher Offers: When a home is well-organized, it’s easier for buyers to see its value. This can lead to more competitive offers and potentially a quicker sale.
  • Stands Out in the Market: In a competitive real estate market, an organized home can stand out from others that may be cluttered or less well-maintained.

Remember that organizing a home doesn’t necessarily mean removing all personal touches. It means creating a clean, tidy, and inviting environment that allows potential buyers to see the space’s full potential. If needed, consider consulting with a professional stager/organizer like Lifestyle by Design to help prepare the home for sale.

Yours in Clutter & Clarity, Cheryl

If you’re looking for more help than what I can provide here, my personalized coaching programs might be just what you need. Book a free consultation to chat about what’s holding you back and how I can help you achieve organized spaces in your lifestyle. I look forward to working with you!

NEW PHONE # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

Posted in Belonging, Clean and Organize, mindfulness

Create a ‘Soft Landing’

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Create a soft place to land in your home a refuge from the stress of the day.

Our daily lives can be pretty demanding, and it’s easy to get stressed out if we don’t take care of ourselves. One way to make sure we have a chance to relax and recharge every day is to create a “soft landing” place when we get home. This could be a whole room or just a small corner, but it should be a safe and comfortable place where we can unwind and de-stress from the day.

Once we’re home, we feel a sense of security that helps us forget about any problems we might have been dealing with. Our homes are also a place where we can shift our focus from the outside world to our inner selves.

To create a cozy spot in your home, start by scouting out some potential locations. Or, if your whole house is your happy place, you might just need to declutter a bit. Your habits can often give you clues about the perfect spot, as you might naturally gravitate to a certain area of your home when you’re feeling the need for comfort.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when creating your soft place to land:

  • Choose a spot that is quiet and relaxing.
  • Add some comfortable furniture, like a sofa, armchair, or chaise lounge.
  • Make sure the lighting is soft and inviting.
  • Add some personal touches, like throw pillows, blankets, and plants.
  • Create a space that is just for you, where you can relax and unwind.

Any space that helps you relax and de-stress can be your own personal sanctuary. A basement, attic, spare room, or even an unused storage area can be transformed into a calming oasis with some cozy furniture and your favorite items. And if you’re lucky enough to have a garden or patio, spending time outdoors can be a great way to unwind and let go of the day’s worries.

To prepare these spaces, just declutter and add a few beautiful objects that make you feel relaxed. Choose a spot that’s quiet and away from the hustle and bustle.

Your personal sanctuary should be a place where you can relax and feel safe. When you come home after a long day, you should be able to exhale, relax, and know that you are in a safe space. You should feel a sense of peace and tranquility as you settle in and center yourself.

Peace & Harmony,

Cheryl ~ Organizer & Coach

If you’re looking for help to create your ‘landing pad’ contact me! envisionsdesigns@gmail.com 

Posted in Beach-Time, Below Deck, Clean and Organize, Declutter, Deep-Cleaning, Redesign

Do Something For Your Mental Health Today . . .

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Redesign a space ~ It can have a positive impact on your mental health in several ways:

  1. Enhancing mood and well-being: A well-decorated space that reflects personal tastes and preferences can evoke positive emotions and improve overall mood. Colors, lighting, and textures can create a more uplifting and enjoyable environment.
  2. Creating a sense of comfort and relaxation: A thoughtfully decorated space can promote relaxation and provide a sanctuary from stress. By incorporating elements such as cozy furniture, soft textures, and calming colors, the space can become a retreat where one can unwind and recharge. And, let us not forget sensual design when it comes to the bedroom – sensual artwork and sensual decor can get the vibes in the right mindset . . . even after a hard day!
  3. Increasing productivity and focus: A well-organized and aesthetically pleasing workspace can boost productivity and concentration. Eliminating clutter, arranging furniture for optimal workflow, and incorporating elements that inspire and motivate can help create a more conducive environment for work or study.
  4. Promoting creativity and inspiration: A visually stimulating and inspiring space can ignite creativity and stimulate the imagination. Incorporating artwork, meaningful objects, or items related to hobbies and interests can serve as a catalyst for new ideas and innovation.
  5. Supporting relaxation and better sleep: A bedroom or relaxation area designed for comfort and tranquility can contribute to better sleep quality. Factors such as soothing lighting, color schemes, luxurious bedding, and the arrangement of furniture can all play a role in creating a calming atmosphere that promotes restful sleep while adding a sensual feel to the room.
  6. Fostering a sense of ownership and pride: Taking the time and effort to redesign a space can foster a sense of ownership and pride. It can increase one’s attachment to the space and create a positive connection, which can boost self-esteem and overall well-being.
  7. Facilitating organization and reducing stress: Redesign often involves decluttering and organizing, which can profoundly impact stress levels. A clean and organized space can contribute to a greater sense of control, clarity, and reduced mental burden.

It’s important to note that everyone’s preferences and responses to the environment may vary. What works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it’s essential to personalize the redesign process to align with individual preferences and needs, creating a space that supports their mental health and well-being. 

This is where Lifestyle by Design Organizer & Coach can help you create that personalized space that will either Energize or Soothe you.

𝓟𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓮 & 𝓗𝓪𝓻𝓶𝓸𝓷𝔂 ~ Yours in Chaos & Clear, Cheryl

If you are seeking further guidance beyond this post, my personalized coaching programs may be of assistance to you. Please book a complimentary session to discuss what is holding you back. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to achieving organized spaces in your lifestyle.

NEW PHONE # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

NEW PHONE # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

Posted in Clean and Organize, Declutter, Home Stager, Redesign

Are You Staying or Selling?

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Take Yourself Out of the Home!

Once you put house your home on the market it’s not yours anymore, it’s for the next set of people. 

As hard as reality sounds, you need to depersonalize the house to sell it. Try to see it through the buyer’s eyes and think zero clutter, warm wall palettes, soft textures, and small bursts of color —you’re aiming for neutral, but still keep the home charming!

Ways to Depersonalize the Home:

  1. Remove all personal / family pictures and photos.
  2. Get a headstart on packing up the NOT NEEDED NOW items.
  3. Pack up collections and collectibles.
  4. Pack away toys and sporting equipment – Keep the ones in use in stylish storage that fits the room design.
  5. Don’t forget to depersonalize the bathrooms – put your and the family’s toiletries into a carry tote for each family member. This keeps the bathroom looking tidy & clean.
  6. Erase any trace of your personal hobbies. This one I don’t follow thoroughly – if there is an area where you may need imagination about what to do with the room, I have used fitness and musical equipment in areas throughout the home . . . remember we want to keep the charm!

We’re giving the buyer a glimpse of how the home can be lived in, not how the home is lived in!

Peace & Harmony ~ Cheryl

Coaching to get and stay organized

A coach is your partner in helping you realize your goals. If you feel “stuck” – either getting started or maintaining some sense of order, coaching is for you!

As your coach . . . I will:

  • Listen, to help identify issues and concerns
  • Ask questions, to clarify your motivations, intentions, and goals
  • Discuss options for new strategies and behaviors
  • Hands-On coaching session – roll up sleeves/side-by-side organizing
  • Hold you accountable, to keep you focused on your goals

𝑾𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒕𝒐 connect!

Call/Text 860.941.8630

A TEXT GETS TO ME FASTER!

*(please text or email with name, story, best time to call, location)*

𝒜𝓉 𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒𝓈 𝓘’𝓂 𝒾𝓃 spaces 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓃𝑜 𝓈𝒾𝑔𝓃𝒶𝓁

email envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

for your free 1/2-hour consultation.

Posted in Clean and Organize, Closet Organization, Downsize

What Does It Mean To Be Organized?

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

What does it mean to be organized? This is a question I get from my clients, especially when they are in the INTENTIONAL DECISION process of the Organize Coaching program. It is not an easy question to answer, because I know what it is like for me – we are all different when it comes to finding “homes” for our belongings.

Being organized means different things to different people. For some, it means having a clean and tidy home. For others, it means being able to find what they need when they need it. And for still others, it means being able to manage their time effectively.

There is no one right way to be organized. The important thing is to find what works for you and stick with it. If you are struggling to get organized, there are many resources available to help you.

The most important thing to remember is that being organized is a journey, not a destination. It takes time and effort to get organized, but it is worth it in the end. When you are organized, you will feel more in control of your life and you will be able to focus on the things that are important to you.

Being organized can have various meanings and interpretations depending on the context and individual perspectives. Here are some common characteristics and experiences associated with being organized:

  1. Clarity and Focus: Being organized often entails having a clear understanding of priorities, tasks, and goals. It involves being able to focus on what matters most without getting overwhelmed by unnecessary distractions or clutter.
  2. Efficiency and Productivity: Organization often leads to increased efficiency and productivity. By having systems in place, being able to find what you need when you need them, and managing time effectively, you can accomplish tasks more efficiently and make better use of your resources.
  3. Reduced Stress: An organized lifestyle can contribute to reduced stress levels. When you have a sense of control over your environment, tasks, and commitments, you are less likely to experience the anxiety and overwhelm that can come with disorganization.
  4. Improved Time Management: Being organized allows for better time management. You can prioritize tasks, allocate time effectively, and create schedules or routines that optimize your productivity. This can help you avoid procrastination, meet deadlines, and have a better work-life balance.
  5. Less Clutter and Physical Order: Organization often involves keeping physical spaces tidy and clutter-free. Having an organized living or working environment can create a sense of calm, make it easier to find things, and provide a visually appealing space that promotes well-being.
  6. Better Decision-Making: Being organized can contribute to better decision-making processes. When you have a clear overview of your options, relevant information, and priorities, you can make informed choices more efficiently and confidently.
  7. Improved Accountability and Responsibility: Being organized can foster a sense of accountability and responsibility for your actions and commitments. By having systems in place, tracking progress, and meeting deadlines, you can develop a reputation for reliability and dependability.
  8. Enhanced Creativity and Focus: Some individuals find that being organized can enhance their creativity and focus. When the external environment is organized and distractions are minimized, it becomes easier to concentrate, think creatively, and generate new ideas.

It’s important to note that being organized is a personal journey, and what works for one person may not work for another. The key is to find organizational strategies and systems that align with your preferences, needs, and goals, and create a sense of order and harmony in your life – this is where a Professional Organizer Coach can help you.

𝓟𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓮 & 𝓗𝓪𝓻𝓶𝓸𝓷𝔂 ~ Your Organizer & Coach, Cheryl

If you are seeking further guidance beyond this post, my personalized coaching programs may be of assistance to you. Please book a complimentary session to discuss what is holding you back. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to achieving organized spaces in your lifestyle.

NEW PHONE # 860-941-8630

A TEXT  gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

Posted in caregiver, Clean and Organize, Declutter, Introverts, Lifestyle Coach

I Do This Every Morning . . .

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

It brings me pleasure, motivation, an action toward my goals.

It’s okay to include your children or family.

It takes about 10 to 20 minutes of your day.

𝓘𝓉’𝓈 𝒿𝑜𝓊𝓇𝓃𝒶𝓁𝒾𝓃𝑔 . . . I been journaling since I could write. I always had a notebook and my collection of pens. My friends would be looking at the toys in the Navy Exchange while I was checking out the new fancy pens on display in the Stationary Section.

I really don’t know what to say to others about HOW I AM – having a journal that never expects anything from me in return, it’s easy to just write about anything.

It’s not that I don’t care about people, I just don’t feel comfortable saying anything other than “I’m okay”. My journal is the space where I can be honest, rude, negative, hopeless, worthless, and above ALL be truthful with myself.

It is not always a smooth journey that leads to an easy destination. There are times when things can get worse before getting better. At times you have to travel unpaved paths to come to the most magnificent visions. Who doesn’t love a rainbow after a violent storm? That’s when you get the prettiest rainbows.

I have used this writing prompt in the past with clients, especially the individuals whom I arrived at on Saturday morning and they would say to me “I didn’t get ANYTHING done this week” I would reply with “Really, you didn’t do anything this week?” I would leave them with this writing prompt as Homework.

The amazement the following week never came from me, it was from my client to learn how many actions they do attend to during the week that’s where I come in as a coach to direct that foot traffic to the purposeful matters.

Enoy journaling . . .

𝓟𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓮 & 𝓗𝓪𝓻𝓶𝓸𝓷𝔂 ~ Your Friendly Organizer, Cheryl

If you’re looking for guidance beyond this post today, my Coaching Programs can be personalized just for you. Book a Complimentary Session to discuss what’s holding you back. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to achieve organized spaces in your lifestyle.

Call or Text 860.961.6842

A text gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

writing-promptDownload
Posted in Clean and Organize, Home Stager, marketing

Happy Friday!

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

𝓟𝓮𝓪𝓬𝓮 & 𝓗𝓪𝓻𝓶𝓸𝓷𝔂 ~ Your Organizer & Coach, Cheryl

If you’re looking for guidance beyond this post today, my Coaching Programs can be personalized just for you. Book a Complimentary Session to discuss what’s holding you back. I look forward to guiding you on your journey to achieve organized spaces in your lifestyle.

Call or Text 860.961.6842

A text gets to me faster: Name, Issue, the Best time to call

Email: envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

Posted in Business Owner, Clean and Organize, Organize and Clean Service, Tidy

Uplevel Your Small Business

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

 The New & Improved Clean & Organize Office Service

We have spent about two years since the pandemic studying and observing the functionality of small businesses in the area, which leads us to redesign our Clean & Organize Office Service for Small Businesses from 200 Sq Ft to 2000 Sq Ft. 

Some small business owners, do not have the same circumstances to hire Human Resource, Marketing, and Operations Managers to get their businesses functioning as Big businesses. There seems to be a gap between all the great services small businesses offer and the same services a big business offers.

We have uncovered the gaps . . . 

There are two areas that I have noticed will set your business apart from others – big or small without a big budget. Those areas are Cleaning & Organizing I have been in offices where I know the value of the furniture and fixtures, but the office space looked cluttered and dirty.

If your business is not clean & tidy it will affect the feeling of stylish comfort and quality of business that Wow! sensation you’re trying to achieve with not only your services, but with your decor, furnishings, and design every time a customer walks through your doors.

We give small businesses big business perks!

We’ve designed the Clean & Organize Office Service to improve on 5 areas of Small Business:

GET MORE PRODUCTIVITY OUT OF YOUR STAFF

By hiring professional Cleaners & Organizers you can ensure that workplace environments (shared spaces/equipment) are properly sanitized on a regular basis. This helps stop a virus in its tracks and reduces the number of employee callouts. This alone helps the cleaning service pay for itself.

KEEP YOUR EMPLOYEES HAPPY

Improve your employees’ morale by showing them you are invested in their health & well-being. By hiring a Cleaning & Organizing service you signify to them that you are committed to clean work environments for your staff and willing to put their needs for safety above everything else.

BOOST YOUR BRAND EXPRESSION

Remember, most cleaning services focus on sanitizing surfaces, they also dispose of trash along with recycling needs, sweep, vacuum, mop, and make office spaces look as clean as possible. We provide the same services along with a company style to reflect your business’s branding. If you are looking for the big business perks for small businesses – We’re here to help.

SAVE MONEY IN THE LONG-TERM

A cleaning service can save you money by reducing the number of sick days that your employees take, but there are also long-term saving benefits – such as having to replace carpets, blinds, flooring, and fixtures sooner than expected if they aren’t cleaned. By investing in a regular cleaning & organizing service, you can maximize the life of your office’s ‘big ticket’ items.

INCREASE YOUR STORAGE CAPABILITIES

Tired of storing old office equipment, supplies, and cleaning supplies? With professional Cleaners & Organizers, you get the benefit of professional equipment, green supplies and without the headache of storing them. Along with assisting in keeping supply closets, coat closets, and office spaces organized to maximize every square footage of office space.

You and your employees deserve the Cleanest, most Organized, safest work environment possible,  with the help of our Clean & Organize services, you will impress everyone who walks through your doors!

To learn more about what we have to offer small businesses in New London County contact us today!

Your friendly Organizer & Coach

Cheryl

(860)961.6824

envisionsdesigns@gmail.com

Lifestyle by Design Blog @ www.envision-designs.com

We Give Small Businesses Big Business Perks!

Posted in Clean and Organize, Declutter, healthy home, Healthy Mind

New Year To Go Back . . .

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

To the basics . . . I am returning to where I started thirty-three years ago, providing my clients with Organizing & Coaching services.

People are overwhelmed with their clutter, but most American families live within chaotic family and work schedules, which keeps them in the clutter because they’re telling themselves “I don’t have time” so clutter has the time to accumulate. We can help break that cycle.

We can help you find the time, when you’re surrounded by clutter, your mindset is in total chaos – that’s where we can first help. We can partner to find a starting point along with an action plan while moving you forward to your goal.

We provide a safe place for you to start letting go of your clutter.

Your friendly Organizer & Coach, Cheryl

Why disorganization cause stress

𝑾𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒖𝒔!

Call/Text 860.961.6824 or you can

email envisionsdesigns@gmail.com for your free 1-hour consultation.