Taking control of your life isn’t always easy. Over the past year, I’ve committed to making changes that focus on my physical, mental, and emotional health. I’ve learned that this journey aligns with the challenges my clients face when it comes to organizing their spaces. Whether it’s changing habits, embracing routines, or finding the discipline to “sweat,” my experience mirrors the effort needed for lasting change—even with the stuff in our homes.
Choosing Change: The Start of My Journey
On September 30, 2023, I decided to quit drinking. It was a pivotal choice that taught me about the power of saying “no” to what doesn’t serve me. This act of letting go was the first step to reshaping my life, just as choosing to declutter can mark the beginning of a new chapter for those overwhelmed by their possessions. It’s about learning to prioritize and make room for what truly matters.
Committing to Growth and Support
In October 2023, I weighed 207 lbs, a good 40lbs more than my comfortable weight. I took a trip to Vegas with my husband and our good friend, and as you do for Vegas, you wear slightly more edgy clothes. So I got this hot little blue dress… I felt empowered by the fact that I was doing a week in Vegas, stone-cold sober (just 10 days after I chose sobriety), so in the moment, I had no problem strutting my stuff. Looking back at pictures in the blue dress, and I am honestly shocked at how far I’ve come. I don’t scold myself for being in that place at that time; I just appreciate where I am now, and look back at my better choices and incremental progress with tremendous pride.
I lost some weight just by not drinking, but in March 2024, I was ready to take it further, so I joined a gym. Not just any gym—a swanky one, a real investment in my goals. Two friends who were already committed to their gym routines encouraged me to join. I knew I needed to enjoy going to keep it up and wanted accountability to stay consistent. In those early months, I relied on them for support, getting texts like, “Bootcamp @ 8:15??” They saved me a spot and encouraged me when I was rushing to drop off the kids. Now, I’ve built my own routine, though I still love working out with them regularly.
Clarity and Self-Discovery
In April, no longer under the alcohol-induced brain-fog, I received an ADHD diagnosis. I was able to clearly see the symptoms that were constantly holding me back and getting in my way. The inner voice that had been SCREAMING “you’re not good enough!!” at me most of my life, became a faint whisper. I stopped allowing that voice to dictate how I approached life.
Weekly therapy began in May. I worked through old hurts, current struggles, and future anticipations of stress. No longer numbing with alcohol allowed me to address my mental health with an eagerness and intention I had never had before. I was able to get off of my antidepressants, which never felt right for me, even though they helped.
The gym and therapy became my support system, providing me with tools and accountability. For my clients, working with a professional organizer or building an accountability network can offer similar support, helping them understand how to organize their spaces in a way that’s realistic and sustainable. Having been through my own journey, I am well-equipped and sensitive to my client’s current realities.
Just as I embraced therapy to better understand my needs, clients who struggle with disorganization can benefit from finding the right structure for their spaces. Organization isn’t about perfection; it’s about creating a setup that adapts to your unique life.
Embracing the Journey and Modifying as You Go
One of the biggest lessons from this journey has been to embrace my own path, even when it looks different from others’. When I’m taking a fitness class, and the instructor tells us to do a certain exercise that my body isn’t feeling, I know enough about myself and proper form (thanks to years-long support from one of my very best friends and trainer, LeAnna) to modify without shame.
The key is to keep moving.
With ADHD, I’ve found that flexibility and willingness to adapt are key. For clients, this means embracing where they are in their organizing journey and adjusting systems to suit their current needs rather than aiming for a one-size-fits-all solution.
When we try something new—whether it’s decluttering, setting boundaries, establishing routines, or a water aerobics class—it’s important to remember that growth doesn’t happen overnight. Small steps, patience, and adaptability are essential for long-term success.
Finding Success with Routines, Boundaries, and a Little Sweat
I’ve discovered that I’m most successful with the hard things when I surround myself with:
- Supportive People who share the journey,
- Routines that keep me grounded, and
- Boundaries that protect my time and energy.
For those tackling clutter, these same principles are invaluable. Getting organized requires commitment, regular routines, and sometimes, a willingness to “sweat a little.” Decluttering isn’t always easy, but it’s empowering, giving you control over your space and your life.
Takeaways for Anyone Ready to Make a Change
If you’re struggling with clutter or overwhelmed by the “stuff” in your life, remember that the journey to a more organized, peaceful space starts with a single choice. Every small step toward change brings you closer to the life you want. Just like I’ve learned to appreciate my journey, embracing your own path —one that’s flexible, intentional, and empowering—is worth every effort.
What a great testimony if your strength. Great job.
Thank you, Martha! I share my story because I know exactly what it feels like to think you can’t do something hard… I share to inspire hope! 🥰