This Organized Life

Hi Friends!Joining me today is Emily Nichols. Emily is the host of the popular podcast Habit Hack Your Health—which helps working moms and entrepreneurs habit-hack their health in less time, guilt-free.From her own struggles, Emily finally found that women have to do habits differently, and she's sharing the solutions on how to live a healthy lifestyle that doesn't feel overwhelming or complicated but rather sustainable and empowering through the power of HABIT HACKING! Think of this as Atomic Habits For Women!Emily is on a mission to redefine what health means and equip other women with these sustainable habit hacks to help transform your life from the inside out, starting by putting yourself first without the guilt.She's also a wife, boy mom, and Taco Tuesday enthusiast! During our conversation, we talked about:The "All or Nothing" MentalityHow to incorporate a Healthy Habits Calendar into your scheduleEmily's 5-step habit change methodRegardless of where you are in your life, this conversation is filled wi

Hi Friends,Today, I'm diving into the concept of choosing your hard and how it plays a role in every corner of our lives, even organization. Let's talk about those tempting shortcuts and how they might seem like a breeze now, but trust me, they often lead to more hassle down the road.Think about it – polishing off that bowl of ice cream might bring instant joy, but the health aftermath? Not so great. Same goes for leaving those videos unsorted – it's a headache to locate them later. So, what's the key? It's all about the bigger picture.I'm really putting emphasis on the long game. Sure, it might mean some extra elbow grease now – like making that bed or resisting those impulse buys. But believe me, this groundwork paves the way for a simpler, more serene life later on. It's like choosing a challenging trail that prevents chaos further down.Remember this: Choose your hard, make those intentional choices that declutter your life.XOLauriePS if you're enjoying these talks, hit that subscribe button, drop a review

Hi Friends!It’s that time of year when routines kick into high gear. Parents are dealing with mixed emotions-from doing a happy dance that the kids will be out of the house, to feelings of dread knowing what’s to come for the next 10 months— school lunches need to be prepped, uniforms need to be washed, and alarm clocks are going off before we are mentally ready to face the day.Joining me today is Jenny Layton, a leading organization expert, mindset coach and the creator of the Life Organized podcast. She is also a mom to 5 kiddos so she is no stranger to the Back to School woes. I invited her to sit down and share some strategies on how to keep everyone afloat during the “Back to School transition”.During our conversation we talk about:The power of Brain Dumping to address internal clutterThe 5 “themes” she uses to keep her home/life organizedScheduling Family Meetings, open communication and setting expectationsI loved this quote from Jenny: “The more you want to do, the more organized you need to be”You do

Before we get started a quick reminder: We have an upcoming FREE webinar on Sept 20th called 5 Ways to Make Money as a Professional Organizer. Spots are limited, so make sure you sign up (even if you can’t make the live event) we’ll be sending out the replay, but you MUST be registered first! Now on to the show!Today, we're diving headfirst into the fascinating concept of selective minimalism. Let's set the record straight from the get-go: while minimalism has taken the world by storm, you don't need to go all Marie Kondo to rock an organized life. It's about finding your own rhythm, and that's what we're about to explore together. As the years have gracefully passed me by, I've found myself drawn towards simplicity, eager to untangle my physical surroundings to free up space in my mind. And guess what? You can do it too, in your own unique way!So, here's the scoop: I'm here to encourage you to hop on the selective minimalism train. It's like minimalism's cool cousin, and it's all about focusing on areas of y

Hi Friends!Joining me today is a New York Times best-selling author of 10 books and host of the Slow Living podcast, Stephanie O’Dea. I invited her on the show to talk about what it means to SLOW Down (you’d think it's simple, but we all know how hard it can be to put it into practice!) During our conversation Stephanie shares how she transitioned from “The Crock Pot Lady” where she built a brand and business sharing crock pot recipes, to now teaching people how to slow down in their everyday lives.While society is promoting bigger, better, newer, faster, Stephanie is advocating for a slower more intentional way of living.She walks us through her SLOW acronym which stands for “SIMPLY LOOK ONLY WITHIN.”Her Peace Pyramid covers 5 areas that we all need to achieve peace in our lives:Time ManagementHealthFinancesOrganizationRelationshipsStephanie has a ton of resources on her website including a daily worksheet with guided prompts to help you intentionally slow down where you need it most. Make sure to check out

On today's tip of the week, it's important for you to declutter your digital spaces, specifically your computer. Let me emphasize the significance of digital detoxing in reducing invisible clutter and improving ease of retrieval for you. Let's start with the first tip: delete old files. You've probably been using the same computer for a while, which means there are likely unnecessary files that can be deleted. Just like decluttering a physical space, consider when you last accessed those files and if you truly need them.Furthermore, take a look at old drafts or multiple versions of files and feel free to delete them to free up storage. If you have larger files, especially related to video content, I recommend moving them to cloud-based platforms like Dropbox or Google Drive. This will help you create more space on your computer. To simplify your digital life, it's crucial for you to declutter your inbox as well. Get rid of old files, unread emails, notifications, and emails from sources that are no longer rel

Hi Friends,You are in for a treat today! Joining me today is Janet Taylor, founder of Totally Organized, a company she started back in 1994 after leaving her corporate job. Since then, Janet has gone on to help hundreds of clients declutter and get organized, earning her the title “Clutter Free Queen” when she appeared on the Rachael Ray Show! Janet is also the host of the “Got Clutter! Get Organized! podcast.I invited Janet to come on TOL to talk about a topic that has a huge impact on our habits and behaviors, but one that is often overlooked–Organizing Tips that You Learned from Your Mom.We often underestimate the things that we deem as “normal” and it isn’t until we grow up and live with other people that we realize not everyone does things the way we do.During our conversation we talked about the countless things that Janet’s mom, Ida taught her such as:Labeling freezer food with datesCreating a grocery list the follows the layout of the storePurging before purchasingWhen to add syrup to the grocery list

Hey friends,Today's episode is all about taking charge of your digital clutter and boosting your productivity. Simplify and streamline your life with these phone organization tips:Delete Any Unused Apps- Make your phone work for you, free up some space and get rid of the overwhelm.Turn off Notifications-Notifications can be distracting when you’re in your most productive zone. Turn them off or turn on focus mode so you can get back to productivity.Housekeeping-Check your storage, in-app purchases and updates.Keeping your phone organized and up-to-date is key to smoother digital life. Schedule an hour or so to go through your phone and get it organized!By following these simple tips, you can simplify your life and focus on the stuff that truly matters. So, whether you're a digital clutter warrior or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights to streamline your phone and boost your productivity. Register Now for the highly anticipated Free Webinar: 5 Ways to Make Money As A Profes

Hi Friends!If you are tired of wasting money on food that no one eats, or buying ingredients that you use once for a recipe and never touch again, then this episode is for you!Joining me today is Caitlin McCandless. Caitlin’s anti-diet approach to health focuses on foods you can ADD to your life rather than looking at what you can’t eat. Meal planning can be simple and today Caitlin shares her tips and strategies on how to simplify grocery shopping with ingredients that are both healthy and versatile. She even shares her “secret sauce” for picky eaters!Caitlin holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition & Dietetics and is the owner of Free from PCOS Nutrition where she offers 1-1 nutrition coaching specifically for women struggling with PCOS. During our conversation we talked about:What is PCOS, and how it’s something many women face, but it’s not always talked aboutThe link between chronic illness and foodsHer entrepreneurial journey into Nutrition CoachingDeveloping a recipe libraryThe benefits of meal pre

Hi Friends, Today, we're diving into a topic that's all about cherishing the friendships that have stood the test of time - reconnecting with old friends. Life can get pretty chaotic, right? We're all juggling a million things at once, and finding time for ourselves, let alone others, can be a real struggle. But amidst the busyness, it's essential to be intentional about making time for the people who truly matter to us - our old friends.Now, don't get me wrong, having friends of convenience is fantastic. They're the ones we can rely on for spontaneous hangouts and casual catch-ups. But there's something magical about reigniting those old friendships, the ones that go way back to a different time in our lives.I know it might seem daunting to reach out to someone you haven't spoken to in ages, but trust me, it's worth it. By taking that step out of your comfort zone, you open the door to deeper connections and lasting bonds.Don't let those meaningful friendships slip away. Sometimes, all it takes is that one m

Hi Friends,Last week we talked about ways to simplify and prep for a move (if you haven’t already listened, make sure to go back and check that out!). Today we are covering the other half to the moving equation, the unpack.I am joined by my friend and fellow organizer, Martha Carol Stewart, founder of Chaos Organizing in Baton Rouge Louisiana who has helped countless clients through the move process, and having a strategy for unpacking is the first step in setting your home up for success.During our conversation we talked about the physical, emotional, mental, financial and time toll that moving can have on you. Whether you are downsizing after 30 years or moving up in house to accommodate your growing family, there is a LOT to consider.We talk about the importance of the first 48 hoursLabeling with MC’s start method helps to indicate which boxes are priorityWhy making your bed is the first thing you should do in your new homePacking an overnight bag and what items to includeZoning beyond “like with like”Ther

Hi Friends,Ready to simplify your life and get organized? We’re talking about a simple yet effective decluttering tip today!By removing just one item a day that you no longer want, need, use, or love, you'll be well on your way to conquering physical, emotional, and calendar clutter. It's a small step that can make a huge difference over time!So, here's the deal - getting rid of just one item daily works wonders for cutting down physical mess and creating a more organized living space. It also helps you flex your "letting go" muscle, which can be incredibly beneficial in tackling emotional clutter too.The best part is, this practice won't eat up your precious time. Seriously, it takes mere seconds, maybe a minute tops, to bid farewell to that one thing you're ready to part ways with. Now, here's a pro tip - set a recurring reminder or challenge yourself to do it for 30 days straight to really get into the decluttering groove. And remember, it's all about those tiny steps every day, which, when added up, creat

Hi Friends,Joining me today is DeLorean Reese, the founder of Peace by Piece Professional Organizing in San Francisco. Since starting her organizing business back in 2015 DeLorean has worked with lots of families in a variety of areas, including closet design, clutter management, and other life transitions. One area that she specializes in is move coordination. Since summer is one of the most popular times for people to move, I invited her on the show to talk about the things you should know to help keep you organized along the way.During our conversation we talked about:Supplies: including boxes-what sizes to choose? Bubble wrap vs. packing paper, using space bags, and labelsLeaving ample time to book movers-most reputable movers are booked out at least 60 days in advance.Securing Permits-some area, including major cities may require a permit for your moving truck to double park, so make sure you look into your local areaChange of Address-this goes for mail, online subscriptions, EZ Pass, or anything else yo

Hey Friends,Today's episode is all about being neighborly and its connection to organization. Inspired by a recent sermon, I want to share three key points that stood out to me.First up, hospitality. Being neighborly means opening our homes and fostering connections through simple gestures like inviting a neighbor for coffee or hosting a barbecue. Don't let fear or shame about the state of your home hold you back. Building relationships is what truly matters.Next, let's talk about sharing. In close-knit communities, we can share resources and reduce clutter. Instead of buying something you'll rarely use, reach out to friends or neighbors for borrowing or sharing. It adds variety without accumulating unnecessary stuff.Lastly, being neighborly means asking for help when needed. Building relationships allows us to offer and receive assistance. Don't hesitate to reach out; most people are happy to lend a hand. And remember, reciprocal relationships mean it's okay to decline if you can't help at the moment.By embr

Hi Friends,Joining me today is Maya Lombarts. Born and raised in Belgium, Maya was like many-living a full and hectic life and career. After struggling with Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, she moved to Peru, changed her lifestyle, and became symptom-free. I invited her on the show to talk about Calendar Clutter and how it impacted her physical health, and how a lifestyle change contributed to her healing.During our conversation we talked about:Why a lifestyle filled with Calendar Clutter was contributing to her illnessHow changing her physical location was the first step in her healingWhat prompted her to ditch her over-scheduled lifestyle and embrace a less way of lifeWe talked about the cultural differences between Americans and Peruvians“When you spread yourself too thin and struggle to stay focused because there are so many things you want to do, your body will catch up with you and you’ll end up feeling burned out, frustrated and disappointed in yourself.By wanting to do MORE, you end up not b

Hi Friends,Welcome to this week's Tip of the Week. Whether you're a newbie or a loyal listener, we're thrilled to have you here. If you haven't already, make sure to hit that subscribe or follow button to stay updated on all our episodes. We release two episodes every week - a short tip on Mondays and exciting conversations with interesting guests on Thursdays. We're all about inspiring you with small doses of goodness.Last week, we talked about the importance of making time for reading. This week, we're diving into the topic of exercise and movement. We understand that finding time for fitness can be a challenge, but it's all about replacing activities that don't add value. You don't need an expensive gym membership or hours of workouts. Even small pockets of time can make a difference. I’m sharing my personal experiences and tips to help you incorporate movement into your daily routine. Prioritizing your physical wellbeing is crucial for leading an organized and fulfilling life. So let's get moving and make

HI Friends,Joining me today is Amber Romaniuk, an Emotional Eating, Digestive and Hormone Expert and host of “The No Sugarcoating Podcast” . I invited her on the show to talk about the parallels between people’s relationship with clutter, organization, and food.Amber shares her own story of weight gain, binge eating and the shame that comes with it. Her honesty and vulnerability, talking about her own “rock bottom” moment, and how she finally found a path to healing.As I listened to her story, I was reminded of clients, and even friends, who have looked at me and asked “why can’t I let go of this?’ or “why do I keep buying things even though I don’t need them?”During our conversation we talked about:The importance of understanding your emotional TRIGGERSThe difference between PHYSICAL & EMOTIONAL hungerBeing VULNERABLE enough to ask for helpWe also touched on hormonal IMBALANCES for my fellow sisters in menopauseSimilarly to clutter, our eating habits are developed over years and change takes time and int

Hey friends!Ever had that longing for a captivating book to whisk you away from the daily grind, only to struggle finding the time? Well, fret not! Carving out some quality reading time, especially during vacations, can work wonders for your soul.We get it, life can be hectic, and reading may seem like a luxury you can't afford. But let me tell you, the benefits of books and audiobooks are totally worth it. They provide a much-needed mental and emotional break, allowing you to unwind and recharge.Now, here's the exciting part: exploring different genres can transform you into an active reader, taking your reading experience to new heights. It's like embarking on a thrilling adventure that temporarily liberates your mind from the endless to-do list.If you're wondering how to squeeze in some reading time, we've got you covered with a few handy tips:Make a commitment to find a book that truly grabs your interest and dedicate time to read it cover to cover.Opt for a genre that transports you to a different world,

Hi Friends, Joining me today is Kimberly Beall, Kimberly is the owner of Beleza Counseling LLC where she has been counseling adolescents, adults, and families for over 10 years. She also happens to be my personal therapist, as well as Logan’s-so suffice it to say that we are big fans!When I shared with Kimberly during one of our sessions that we were working on this series on Clutter and ADHD I knew I had to have her the show!During our conversation Kimberly shares some scientific facts about how the ADHD brain works and the ripple effects in areas specific to:ClutterDisorganizationTime Blindness“Now vs Not Now”Executive FunctionAnxietyDepressionOCDWe talked about things you should avoid saying to your ADHD loved one and the importance of creating and maintaining specific routines.Kimberly shares some specific strategies for you to keep in your toolbox as you navigate life. There’s so much more we know about ADHD than we did 10, 20, or 30 years ago. Just because your brain works differently doesn’t mean that

Hey FriendsYou know what's a game-changer for simplifying family life? Creating a family shared calendar. Trust me, it's a total lifesaver. And here's the best part: I'm gonna spill all the juicy details on how to make it work like a charm.First things first, forget about those old-school paper planners. Digital calendars are where it's at! They're way more reliable and easier to manage. Plus, in this digital age, it just makes sense to embrace the convenience of technology.Now, let me share a little secret that has made my family calendar a visual delight. Color-coding, my friends! Assign a unique color to each family member's activities and schedules. It's like creating your very own rainbow of organization. I've got green for work, purple for Logan, blue for Josh, and orange for Zoe. It's a simple trick, but trust me, it makes things so much easier to manage at a glance.But why is a shared calendar so important, you ask? Well, it's all about fostering healthy communication and teamwork within the family. W