top of page

Lessons from My Dad: How Simple Systems Lead to an Organized Life

embraceyourspace3

Updated: Oct 8, 2024

Jill and dad posing and smiling for a selfie

My interest in organization and productivity started when I was very young, watching my father. My dad was a master at completing projects. He had a knack for figuring out the steps and then following them one at a time. He would just chip away at something until it was manageable. He followed the simple rule of breaking tasks into smaller parts.


For instance, he would dispose of very large items in our single trash can such as a large sofa and a queen-size box spring. He would use a saw to cut them into tiny pieces, then wound the pieces tightly with string so they would fit inside the can. He would do this repeatedly for several weeks until the item was gone!


He also was very resourceful, and valued reducing waste. He repurposed and repaired many items that he found over the years such as TVs, lawnmowers and furniture. He was always working on some project or other in the garage. He would finish one project and methodically go on to the next.


Jill and dad in 1964, framed in black & white
Me and my dad in 1964

Step by Step - Getting Organized is Possible


As an Organizer, I find that many of my clients struggle with starting, prioritizing and completing projects, as well as managing tasks during the process. Following my dad’s example of breaking tasks into small steps that are manageable and achievable is the key. With my clients, I like to share the process of working through a space one step at a time. I also teach the principle of having a place (one that makes sense) for everything.


Having a simple process for organizing your home is one of the most important things that you can do. It makes things manageable so that you can have fun and do the things that you really want to do instead. My Top 6 Decluttering Methods have some good ideas to get you started.


At the end of the day, organizing is about being kind to yourself. Taking care of you so that you can be there for others. I like to think that was one of the many gifts that my dad gave me.


Jill and dad smiling for a photo

Happy Organizing!


Jill Signature

20 views1 comment

Recent Posts

See All

1 Comment


Patty Smith
Patty Smith
Oct 16, 2024

What a lovely post, Jill. Your dad must've been wonderful. Those lessons have served you so well.

Like

Sign me up to receive occasional updates, organizing tips, resources and inspiration! You'll also receive my Top 6 Decluttering Methods.

​

Expertise Logo

©2023 by Embrace Your Space LLC

  • Yelp!
  • Instagram
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
bottom of page