1. They are minimalists and want you to be one too. I’d actually say that is two myths, because while a professional organizer MIGHT be a minimalist, not all of us are! We also don’t want to force a way of living onto our clients, but will gladly help create change when they express desire for a certain lifestyle.

2. They want you to buy expensive bins and storage supplies. Unless this is what the client wants, expensive storage is actually the opposite of how I operate! It’s true that proper storage is the key to success for maintaining a system, but it’s essential we wait to choose containers until we’ve sorted and purged your items. If you want the Pinterest perfect look and don’t mind dropping a few hundred (or thousand) dollars at The Container Store, we’re here for it! We’re also on board with Dollar Tree and repurposing items you already have if that’s what works best for you! We never buy items for a client without permission.

3. They judge your lifestyle and home. You know when you go to the gynecologist and think the doctor is judging you and they quickly remind you that they’ve seen it ALLLLL before? Yeah, that’s how professional organizers are, too. We are in this profession because we want to help solve a problem in your life! Many of us have lived through personal experiences involving life transitions (I’ve moved 15 times as an adult!), loss of a family member or the lifestyle of a family member, or even just through seeing a large number of clients. I have improved my own anxiety by simplifying my life, so when I see someone’s personal space I am grateful they’re inviting me into their vulnerable world so I can hopefully help them, too.

4. You should be able to organize it yourself. This myth often comes from the people close to you in life or from your personal beliefs that you should do everything yourself. This myth made in on the list because I’ve been here with many professional services! But what happens when “I can do it all myself”? One, it takes way longer to finish, if ever, because I keep putting it off over and over again! Two, I am even MORE stressed out because I try to add something to my plate when I’m already overwhelmed. Three, if I ever get around to doing it myself I learn later that it should have been done a different way and I might even have to hire someone after trying to DIY. Ugh! Professional organizing is an expensive service for some people, no doubt. But, if you’re at a breaking point of stress or simply want to spend your time on other things it’s invaluable!

5. They only help hoarders and celebrities. Thanks for this myth, Netflix. We CAN help those demographics, but the majority of our clients are just people who haven’t had time to systematize their garage or want a pantry with matching bins and labels. Most professional organizers have a niche, so hen you’re looking for one it’s helpful to share your big problem areas and ask if this is something they have experience with!

I hope after reading this you feel more comfortable inviting a professional organizer into your space! Please reach out if you have questions about how a professional organizer can help you.