Ah, so your inner organizer has called in sick… again. Left you nothing but a vague voicemail about “needing a mental health day” while you stare at that spare room that’s been mysteriously multiplying its clutter since 2019. Don’t worry – this isn’t a case for Dr. House. As someone who helps women transform their spaces from chaos to calm, I’ve seen even the most dedicated organizers come down with a bad case of the “I don’t wannas.”
Here’s your prescription (and no, it’s not another container from The Container Store): losing your organizing mojo isn’t a terminal condition – it’s human. And for my beautiful warriors over 50, it’s often tied to deeper stuff. Maybe you’re navigating an empty nest, reimagining your career, or finally admitting that keeping your late mother’s entire china collection isn’t serving your peace of mind.
“So what do we do? Anything. Something. So long as we just don’t sit there. If we screw it up, start over. Try something else.” – Lee Iacocca
But here’s where it gets good (and where I get a bit bossy, in the most loving way possible). Motivation isn’t some magical unicorn that appears when the stars align. It’s more like a muscle that needs regular workouts and occasional pep talks.
Ready to get that spark back? Let’s do this:
Start with a Soul Space Pick one tiny area that makes your heart sing. Maybe it’s your reading nook or your coffee station. When we begin with spaces that spark joy (yes, I said it, and Marie Kondo can’t have a monopoly on joy), the momentum naturally flows to other areas.
The Five-Minute Flirtation Commit to just five minutes. That’s it. Set a timer and organize one drawer. Usually, you’ll find yourself wanting to continue, but if not? You still win. You showed up, and that counts.
Connect to Your ‘Why’ This isn’t about Pinterest-perfect spaces (though they’re nice). It’s about creating room for your next chapter. What could you do with all that mental and physical space you’ll reclaim? Take a moment to visualize it. Feel it. Write it down.
“We can do hard things.” – Glennon Doyle
Remember, healing and organizing go hand in hand. Every item you mindfully relocate or release is a step toward not just a tidier space, but a clearer mind and lighter heart. And if you’re not feeling it today? That’s okay too. Tomorrow is another day to find your spark.
Still feeling under the weather when it comes to organizing? Don’t let your inner organizer play hooky forever! While you’re waiting for your motivation to clock back in, grab my Paper Freedom Starter Kit – it’s like a wellness shot for your organizing journey, minus the weird green juice taste. And if you’re loving these tips, you’ll definitely want to check out my blogs on room-by-room revival and empty nest organizing. Because sometimes the best medicine for a motivation slump is knowing you’re not the only one who occasionally needs a sick day. Let’s get you back on your feet and ready to organize – doctor’s orders!