For organizing insight, look through a stranger’s eyes.

Have you ever looked at your home through a stranger’s eyes? It’s hard to do, of course; we get used to seeing our stuff. But that’s the point – we get so used to it that we stop seeing the clutter, the décor, the stuff that no longer resonates. It can be eye-opening to try to see your space with fresh eyes. 

So try this: grab a pad and pen, and take a moment at your front door to close your eyes and center yourself. When you’re ready, open your eyes and look at your home as if seeing it for the first time. Walk slowly through the space. What catches your attention? What does the décor say about the person who lives there? What questions arise? What brings a smile to your face? What corners call for some decluttering or reorganizing? What doesn’t seem to belong in the space?

Don’t start working with your stuff during this time. Instead, jot down ideas. If you see something that no longer resonates or reflects you, jot it down. Note spaces that could use some attention. Write down any ideas that come to you for changing your space. You might realize that furniture could be placed differently, that there are items out of place, or that items you’ve had forever really don’t work anymore. (Have you heard me talk about my grandmother’s lamp?) You might even find things that are better off in trash or recycling. Then, when you have some time, begin to work through your list to make any changes that will increase your satisfaction and joy in your home.