Decluttering and organizing any space can be a bit overwhelming. For advice, we turned to Robin North Stankowski ’97, owner of RLN Organizing. Stankowski earned a BA in industrial-organizational psychology—perfect preparation for her work. “Eighty percent of my job as a professional organizer is about behavior modification and skill transference, not about the stuff,” she says. The simple steps she recommends may seem obvious, but Stankowski says many people overlook the basics.
Don’t start by purchasing the solutions (bins, shelves, etc.). Downsize the contents first.
Categorize the contents that remain. Think of the way a store divides its space into departments.
Measure, measure, measure! Be sure the solutions will fit: The bin fits on a shelf; the organizer fits in a drawer.
If you need help, invite a nonjudgmental friend to support you through the process.
