Expert: Jamie Novak - 1/1/2007

Question
Hi Jamie,

I am a 50 yr. old bachelor who grew up with pack-rats for parents.  I guess I inherited the gene and now I am lost in a sea of clutter.  Fortunately I live in a large enough home that it doesn't seem so overwhelming to anyone else, but it is still very overwhelming to me as it causes me stress every time I think of trying to organize things.

I have seen TV shows such as "Mission Organization" that has local individuals who come into homes and help get things organized.  I have checked in our local phone book and apparently noone in this area offers this type of service.  But I'm afraid I need some help and I'm not sure of which way to turn.

One reason I have trouble is because I was burdened with the task of clearing out my parent's as well as my grandparent's homes after their death so that I could sell the properties.  Now the emotional attachments I have with all the "stuff" in my garage causes me great stress and even sometimes GI upset at the thought of getting rid of anything.  So I am afraid doing it alone is a little too much for me to handle.  So do you have any suggestions?  I don't mean to sound so wimpy, but at least I'm honest.  :)

Any suggestions are much appreciated.

Gary

P.S.  You wouldn't happen to live near WV would you?  If so, are you for hire ??  

Answer
Hi Gary,

Happy New Year! Sure sounds like you are starting out on a clutter-busting note :)

Sorry I don't live near WV, but I know some organizers who do!

You can check out

http://www.onlineorganizing.com/FormServicesOrganizerReferrals.asp

or

http://www.association-office.com/napo/referral/index.cfm

Organization is a habit and even if you did not grow up learning the habit it is never too late!

Please check out www.JamieNovak.com where you can sign up for the weekly clutter challenge, which is where I announce, free calls I offer which are very helpful.

You can do this- sounds like someone to help you get started it just what you need.

Please let me know if you need anything else. I wish you the best of luck! You can do this :)

Fondly, Jamie