Tag: organizing

Posted in New Beginnings

Our New . . . Newsletter

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Transform Your Home: The Power of Organization 

Welcome to our monthly newsletter THE GRACE NOTES, where we bring you tips and inspiration to help you create a more organized, harmonious living space. This month, we’re diving into the transformative power of the home organization process and how it can enhance your daily life.

As we embrace a new month, let’s focus on the power of a well-organized home. 

Here are some impactful tips to help you transform your space:

Step-by-Step Tips for a Clutter-Free Space

  1. Start Small, Think Big: Begin with one room or even a single drawer. Decluttering in manageable chunks prevents overwhelm and fuels motivation.
  2. Declutter with Purpose: Assess each item’s value. If it doesn’t serve a purpose or spark joy, it’s time to let it go. Donate or recycle to reduce waste.
  3. Create Functional Zones: Designate specific areas for different activities—cooking, working, and relaxing. This makes everything easier to find and use.
  4. Maximize Vertical Space: Use shelves, hooks, and cabinets to utilize wall space. This keeps surfaces clear and the room feeling more open.
  5. Regular Maintenance: Set aside 15 minutes a day for a quick tidy-up. Consistent maintenance prevents clutter from accumulating.
  6. Personalize Your Space: Make your home uniquely yours. Incorporate items that reflect your style and personality, while maintaining a clutter-free environment.

A well-organized home not only looks great but also boosts your mental clarity and productivity. Start your journey today and feel the transformative impact of an organized living space.

If the thought of organizing your entire home feels overwhelming, remember you don’t have to do it alone. As a professional organizer, I am here to help you every step of the way. Together, we can create a customized plan that suits your lifestyle and transforms your home into a space where you can thrive.

Why Organize?

A well-organized home is more than just aesthetically pleasing—it’s a catalyst for a healthier, more productive lifestyle. Clutter and chaos can lead to stress, reduce your efficiency, and even affect your mental health. On the flip side, an organized home can create a sense of calm, improve your focus, and give you more time to enjoy the things you love.

The Benefits You’ll Experience

  1. Reduced Stress: A tidy environment can help lower anxiety levels, making your home a true sanctuary.
  2. Increased Productivity: With everything in its place, you’ll spend less time searching for things and more time being productive or relaxing.
  3. Enhanced Creativity: An organized space can inspire new ideas and creative thinking.
  4. Improved Health: Less clutter means fewer places for dust and allergens to accumulate, contributing to better indoor air quality.

Get Started Today

If the thought of organizing your entire home feels overwhelming, remember you don’t have to do it alone. As a professional organizer, I am here to help you every step of the way. Together, we can create a customized plan that suits your lifestyle and transforms your home into a space where you can thrive.

Ready to take the first step towards a more organized life? Contact me today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can bring order and tranquility to your home. Let’s make your dream space a reality!

Happy organizing!

Resources & Tools

Great List! Tidy.com – Cleaning Checklist

I love these products! I have been using them since 1998! Speed Cleaning Products

This is the best product! The Pill (You can purchase at Lowes or Amazon)

After cleaning your fiberglass shower, wax it! Rain Dance Car Wax

Posted in Energy Designer

Design Your Life

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Design Your Life

The energy we bring to our lives can be intentionally cultivated, much like we thoughtfully design the interiors of our homes.

The excitement of decorating a new house or empty room sparks our imagination and opens up a world of possibilities. Similarly, life presents us with opportunities for self-expression in different contexts. We can shape our experiences by asking ourselves how we want to navigate our days and what kind of flow we desire in our lives.

Some individuals possess an innate ability to influence the atmosphere of the spaces they occupy, effortlessly enhancing their surroundings with their presence. These individuals have a unique talent for infusing life with a touch of artistry. This can manifest in various ways, such as their distinctive personal style, their captivating conversational abilities, or even their thoughtful gestures, like consistently bringing a bouquet of wildflowers as a gift when visiting.

Our presence, intentional or not, makes a statement. The energy we emit shifts depending on our attire. A simple, elegant ensemble evokes a different atmosphere than a vibrant, cheerful outfit with a floppy hat. Neither is superior; both are valid expressions.

The ambiance we cultivate is ultimately a matter of personal preference. Our attire is merely one element to consider. The way we communicate and interact with others has a far more profound impact on the energy we project. Our words, and the tone in which we deliver them, compose the music we introduce into our shared world. Some may fill the space with vibrant melodies, while others offer soothing harmonies. Both have their place; we are all called to contribute our unique voices.

Our homes are a reflection of our conscious choices, and alike we can intentionally infuse our unique energy into our lives. Ideally, this allows us to express our inner selves, adding adornments to the world that enhance its meaning, and beauty to create a welcoming atmosphere akin to a cherished home.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Yours in Chaos to Calm, 𝓒𝓱𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓵

If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my blog, consider my personalized coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you to transform your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! Cheryl Camacho # 860-941-8630

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

Email: ccamacho@lifestyle-by-designs.com 

Posted in Music Heals
Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

With just four days until the most important election of our lifetime, every vote is a voice for the future we want. This is our chance to decide on the issues, protect our rights, and shape our communities. Don’t let this moment slip by—stand up, speak out, and vote for the change you want to see. Every. Single. Vote. Counts.

With the challenges we face, it’s imperative to prioritize quality time with those who truly matter. In times of adversity, coming together and supporting one another is crucial. Instead of creating distance, let’s embrace inclusivity and strengthen our bonds.

Peace ♥ Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Deep-Cleaning

The Art of Detail-Cleaning

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

In the quiet corners of our homes, hidden beneath the daily bustle, lie forgotten nooks and crannies. These are the places where memories gather dust and where the essence of our lives subtly accumulates. Detail-cleaning your home is not just about tidying up—it’s about rekindling a relationship with your space, breathing life back into every room, and finding joy in the smallest of details.

Imagine the serenity that washes over you as you lift a neglected picture frame, wiping away months of dust to reveal a cherished photograph. Each swipe of the cloth becomes a stroke of nostalgia, a gentle reminder of moments past. The smell of fresh cleaning products mingles with the familiar scent of home, creating an atmosphere that is both comforting and invigorating.

As you meticulously clean the baseboards and scrub the grout, you are not just removing dirt—you are rediscovering the beauty that lies beneath. Each corner you uncover, each surface you polish, reflects a renewed commitment to your environment. It’s a process that grounds you, connecting you to the physical space that holds your life’s stories.

Detail-cleaning your home is an act of love. It’s in the careful reorganization of a cluttered drawer, where you find that long-lost trinket that brings a smile to your face. It’s in the satisfaction of seeing your reflection in a spotless mirror, a metaphor for the clarity and peace you seek in life.

The act of deep cleaning goes beyond the physical; it’s a meditative journey. As you clean, you let go of what no longer serves you, making room for new memories and experiences. It’s a practice that teaches patience, attention to detail, and mindfulness. You become present in the moment, fully engaged with your surroundings.

In this process, your home transforms from a mere shelter into a sanctuary. The energy shifts and the air feels lighter. You walk through each room with a sense of pride and accomplishment, knowing that every surface gleams with your care. It’s a gift to yourself and to those you share your home with—a testament to the love and respect you have for your living space.

So, embrace the art of detail-cleaning. Let it be a celebration of your home, a ritual that honors the past and prepares for the future. As you clean, remember that you are not just tidying up; you are creating a space filled with warmth, clarity, and peace. In every corner, let the love you pour into your home reflect into your heart, reminding you of the beauty in the details.

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Declutter

Mini-Clutter Clinic

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Mini Clinic: Organizing the Family Bathroom

Objective:
To transform a cluttered family bathroom into a functional, clean, and efficient space for all members of the family to use comfortably.

Step 1: Declutter

  • Remove everything: Clear off countertops, shelves, and cabinets. Lay everything out on a surface.
  • Sort into categories: Group items by type—towels, toiletries, cleaning supplies, first aid, etc.
  • Toss expired or unused items: Discard expired products, empty bottles, and anything no longer in use.

Step 2: Establish Zones

Create dedicated zones for:

  • Daily use items: Keep frequently used products (toothbrushes, soap, hand towels) within easy reach.
  • Hair and skincare products: Use a drawer or container for makeup, skincare, and hair tools.
  • Bathing essentials: Organize shampoos, conditioners, and body washes near the shower or bath.
  • Cleaning supplies: Store under the sink or in a closet, but keep them out of reach of children.
  • Family members’ items: If several family members use the bathroom, create personal bins or shelves for each person.

Step 3: Maximize Storage

  • Use drawer organizers: Keep small items like cotton swabs, toothpaste, and razors tidy.
  • Install shelves or baskets: Make use of vertical space with wall-mounted shelves or hanging baskets for extra storage.
  • Use clear containers: For deep cabinets or under-the-sink areas, use clear bins or baskets for easier access to items.
  • Towel hooks or racks: Mount hooks for each family member’s towel, or add a towel bar to keep them off the floor.

Step 4: Label & Maintain

  • Label containers and bins: Labeling helps everyone know where things belong and keeps the system working.
  • Implement a routine check: Once a month, check for items that need replenishing or discarding, ensuring the space stays clutter-free.

Additional Tips:

  • Add a laundry hamper: Make it easy for everyone to toss dirty towels and clothes directly into the hamper.
  • Childproofing: If you have young children, ensure that any sharp or hazardous items are stored securely and out of reach.

Products to Consider:

  • Stackable bins for under-sink storage
  • Over-the-door hooks for towels
  • Clear plastic containers for small items
  • Drawer dividers for toiletries
  • A lazy Susan for easy access to products in deep cabinets

Final Thoughts:

A well-organized family bathroom can streamline the morning and evening routines, helping every family member start their day more efficiently. Plus, an organized bathroom is easier to clean and maintain!

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Clutter Coach

Essential Space Organization

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Essential Space Organization

Organizing your spaces is not just a luxury; it’s essential to creating a balanced and productive lifestyle. Clutter and disorganization can have a profound impact on your mental and emotional well-being. When your living or working environment is chaotic, it can lead to feelings of stress, overwhelm, and even a sense of being stuck. Conversely, an organized space promotes clarity, focus, and peace of mind, allowing you to operate more efficiently and feel more in control.

A well-organized space saves time and energy. When you know where things are, you don’t waste precious moments searching for misplaced items, which reduces frustration and increases productivity. It helps you maintain a sense of calm, especially in stressful situations, because your environment is set up to support your daily routines, not hinder them. This is particularly important for people juggling multiple responsibilities like work, family, and personal care.

Additionally, organizing isn’t about making everything perfect; it’s about creating systems that work for you and your unique lifestyle. Whether it’s a kitchen where meal prep becomes effortless, a workspace that boosts creativity and concentration, or a living room that invites relaxation and connection, organizing is about making life flow better. It’s a form of self-care that enhances the quality of your life by creating physical and mental space for the things that matter most.

Far from being a luxury, organization is a necessity. It empowers you to live more intentionally, reduces anxiety, and fosters a healthier, more functional lifestyle. When your space is in order, your mind can follow suit.

Change Chaos to Calm, Cheryl

If you require more comprehensive guidance than the information provided in my article, consider my personalized coaching programs. Book a complimentary consultation to explore the factors hindering your journey toward organized living spaces. Together, we will identify your challenges and develop a tailored strategy to help you achieve your goals. I anticipate the opportunity to collaborate with you in transforming your lifestyle.

Let’s Chat! # 860-941-8630

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

Email: ccamacho@lifestyle-by-designs.com 

“Clutter is postponed decisions”

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 Clutter Coach

Mini Clutter-Clinics

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Ten minutes is a sweet spot!

Embrace the Power of Small Wins: 10 Mini Clutter Clinics in Just 10 Minutes Each!

In the hustle and bustle of life, finding the time and energy to tackle clutter can feel overwhelming. But what if I told you that you could make a significant impact on your space in just 10 minutes? Introducing my 10 Mini Clutter Clinics—a series of quick, focused sessions designed to bring order to your life without the stress. Each clinic is a bite-sized, manageable task that will guide you to declutter and organize different areas of your home or workspace.

Why 10 Minutes? Ten minutes is a sweet spot—it’s short enough to fit into your busiest day, yet long enough to make a noticeable difference. By breaking down the process into these mini-clinics, you’ll experience the joy of small victories that build momentum. Every completed clinic is a step closer to a more organized, peaceful environment.

What Can You Expect?

  • Immediate Impact: You’ll see the difference right away. Whether it’s clearing off a cluttered countertop or organizing a messy drawer, these clinics are designed to give you quick wins that boost your confidence and motivation.
  • Stress-Free Progress: No need to carve out hours of your day. Each clinic is purposefully designed to be completed in just 10 minutes, making it easy to integrate into your daily routine.
  • Empowerment: As you move through each clinic, you’ll feel empowered by your ability to create positive change in your environment. The sense of accomplishment will encourage you to continue your journey toward a clutter-free life.

The Journey Ahead Is Your Path to a more organized life starts here, one clinic at a time. Whether you’re clearing out the junk drawer that’s been bothering you for months or finally organizing that pile of paperwork, each mini-clinic will bring you closer to the peaceful, clutter-free space you deserve.

So, let’s get started! Commit just 10 minutes to your first clinic, and watch how these small, intentional actions can lead to big transformations. Remember, every step forward is a step toward a more serene, organized life. You’ve got this!

  1. Purse/Briefcase/Backpack

Dump the contents from your daily bag. Only add the items you use back in. Let go of the rest. If you choose a day each week this 10-minute task will be a way to change a habit and behavior.

  1. Bathroom

Let go of old cosmetics (see this for expiry guidelines), expired prescriptions, and OTC meds (here’s how to dispose of them). Take an assessment through each drawer and cabinet. Donate to a local homeless shelter if there are unopened items (toothpaste, shampoo, soap) or similar items that you know you will never use.

  1. Hall Closet or Storage Area

I’ve never seen the inside of your hall closet, but I can guarantee there are things in there you don’t need, don’t want, and don’t even remember you have or don’t know how they got there.

  1. Pantry

If there are other things you never use, let them go and make space. Donate unexpired, unopened items to your local food bank. Create a master list of what goes where on what shelf, create something to match the theme of your kitchen, drop it in a Dollar Store frame, and hang it so everyone knows how to keep the pantry tidy.

  1. Nightstand

Make the space near where you sleep peaceful and straightforward. Having a battery-operated clock next to the bed is nice in case of power outages. Have water, and a notebook with a pen/pencil to make those last-minute thoughts before dreamland. 

  1. Outdoor space

Tackle balconies, porches, front yards, and backyards. Even outside clutter is clutter. If your home is on the market or will be short, curb appeal makes that first impression.

  1. Car

From the glove box to the trunk, do a deep dig of your car. You’ll probably eliminate that annoying rattling noise or solve the mystery smell in the process too.

  1. Inbox

If your inbox has become a 2-year to-do list, start deleting it for 10 minutes at a time. Consider email bankruptcy if it’s a lost cause (select.all.delete.). If you don’t remember what emails you were saving and why . . . let them go!

  1. Thoughts

What’s swirling around up there? Write down 10 things on your mind, weighing you down, and preventing you from thinking clearly. Moving your worries from the brain to the paper will help you figure out the next step.

  1. Office

Are there things on your desk, in drawers, or hiding in a filing cabinet that you can easily let go of? Let go of the things in your office that don’t contribute to your purposeful, effective work style.

Now that you’ve let procrastination know that motivation and transformation have taken over, consider other decluttering challenges and resources to continue the momentum of moving forward to a simpler lifestyle.

Peace & Harmony ~

Happy Organizing! Cheryl

Posted in Uncategorized

Funky Friday ♪ ♫

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs
https://youtu.be/5AX3DKnpKSA?si=XeqgK3Eu3TQ0K74e

“Music always sounds better on Friday.” 

Have a great weekend!

Peace & Harmony, Cheryl

Posted in Uncategorized

Bring In The Good Vibes!

Posted on by Lifestyle-by-designs

Make Your Home Serene

Include all five senses while making a home, along with creating a safe haven for your evolving body and soul.

Your home is like your own private slice of heaven. With a little TLC, you can turn it into a chill spot where you can relax and be yourself. It can be your sanctuary, a place where you feel safe and comfortable. And when you have guests over, they’ll feel all cozy and welcome too.

A tidy and cozy home can make you, your family, and your pals feel chill and give you a break from the crazy world outside. Making a place like that isn’t hard. Even if you’ve got little kids or a zoo’s worth of pets, you can still have a peaceful home.

Listen! In no time, you can make a few easy changes that’ll transform your humble abode into a cozy and secure sanctuary. It’ll be a place you’ll be thrilled to show off to your pals and family.

Wanna make your home a relaxing oasis? Start with the vibes! Soft lighting and calming colors like blue, purple, and green can make a space feel cozy and inviting. And don’t forget the scents! Pleasant and calming aromas like lavender and vanilla can totally change your mood.

Calming sounds like the water flowing in a fountain or soft chimes can make a space feel better and more peaceful. Getting rid of clutter and using open space wisely can also help you feel better emotionally and get rid of negative thoughts.

The stuff in your house, like furniture and the house itself, can hold onto the vibes of the people who lived there before you. If you want to freshen things up, try picturing a bright white light all around your place. You can also sweep away bad energy using a sage bundle. . . my personal favorite!

What you do with your home can be as unique as you are. You can change the layout, add some new furniture, decorate, or even try feng shui or rituals. But the most important thing is to make your home a place that feels good to be in.

Make your home a cozy place, and it’ll feel like a warm hug every time you step inside!

Peace ♥ Harmony, Cheryl