My method (SPACE-method):
I work with the method SPACE which is an acronym for Sort – Purge -Assign – Contain- Equalize.
There is no one method that works exactly the same for everyone. The method I use is flexible enough to suit most people, and I always start with it when starting a new project.
Very simply described, it goes like this:
Sort .
During the sorting phase, we determine what needs to be sorted and under which categories. Regardless of whether you want to organize your camping stuff or you want a new solution for your wardrobe, we bring out everything that belongs together and create logical categories. It must feel right and logical to you in order for you to create a habit of putting the item back where it belongs.
Purge .
This is the purging phase, and it may need to take some time. Sometimes you get hold of your old diaries or journals, and start reading them. Or you need to go through all the jackets or pictures in a photo album. It can take a lot of your energy. That's when I can come in and help you so that you don't get too caught up in old memories. I also encourage you to review what you can throw away or donate, and why you save items for sentimental reasons or because it " might be good to have” etc.
Assign .
The next phase involves organizing, sorting, folding, stacking and making sure everything has its place. Every item in your home needs somewhere to "live".
We also go through the best way to organize so that you get up to 80% more space! We look at what you have left after decluttering, and where the items are going to live.
Contain .
In the "contain" phase, we take a look at how you can store the items you've decided to keep, with storage solutions, shelving systems, etc. During our initial consultation, you have established a budget for the project, and this is where a part of that budget comes in. Do we need to purchase new containers, boxes and baskets, or maybe you have lots of storage solutions already? First we use what you already have. If you have already decided that you want to renew your home by investing in new storage solutions, we look at such.
Everyday .
In the last phase of the SPACE-method, we go through strategies and systems to maintain an organized order in everyday life. We also go through the action plan that we developed during our initial consultation meeting, and look at what you can do to continue to keep surfaces and spaces decluttered.
We will also book a follow-up where you tell me how the transition to the new organized life is going. You can give feedback and share if there is something you are missing, and how you think I can improve my service.
If you hire me, you need to know a few things:
- I will not throw anything away against your will. My intention, however, is for my clients to feel that they have achieved a transformation after we are done, and you don't get that from shoving stuff around from one space to another. I will encourage you to throw away, donate and discard items you no longer need.
- I can push you a little and sometimes may be perceived as harsh. Think of me as a personal trainer: You pay me to get you results.
- Sometimes I may ask questions that may stir up emotions and you may even feel triggered. It's not to be mean, it's so we can find the reason why you're hoarding stuff so you can do something about it.
- You should feel that you have freed up space, time and energy not only in your home but also in your brain. In order for you to have that freedom, you need to be prepared to let go of the old to make room for the new.
Continue reading: What is SPACE and how can it help you organize your stuff?