Why Hire A Professional Organizer?

Let’s face it: decluttering your home can feel like an overwhelming task. Whether you’re living in the Hague as an expat or just trying to create a peaceful space in the Amsterdam, getting started can be tough. Having moved internationally multiple times, I understand the stress of managing belongings across different cultures and living situations. I also know the joy of finally getting a handle on your things and surrounding yourself with only those items that truly spark joy. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to go through this process alone. Working with a professional organizer can make the experience much smoother, quicker, and (I am not lying) more fun.

You might think, “I’ll just start decluttering and see where it goes!” But that usually leads to a half-hearted attempt where you end up organizing one drawer, only to find a hidden stash of mismatched socks from 2012, and, thoughts of finding their partners and loss of the motivation to continue. It’s easy to think “I’ll just get rid of a few things,” only to find yourself overwhelmed by piles of clutter and unsure of where to begin. And without a clear plan or strategy, it can feel impossible to make lasting progress.

People can spend hours, even days, sorting through their belongings, only to get frustrated and give up. So why does decluttering feel so difficult on your own? Here are some of the limitations of a DIY approach:

1. Starting the wrong way

When you tackle decluttering by yourself, it’s easy to lose focus. You might start with good intentions, but without a systematic approach like the KonMari method used by Marie Kondo, it’s hard to make decisions. You may jump from room to room or choose too large a scope, feeling like you’re doing something productive, but in reality, you’re end up creating depressing piles.

It’s like trying to build a house without a blueprint—you’ll end up with a mess and probably a few broken windows (metaphorically speaking, of course).

2. Overwhelm and Decision Fatigue

Looking at all your stuff—whether it’s clothes, books, or paperwork—can be incredibly overwhelming. The process of making decisions about what to keep and what to discard can lead to decision fatigue. This fatigue can make it harder to stay motivated or complete the task.  Having a professional organizer to set the pace keeps you out of this trap. A professional organizer will dimension the work so that you see progress which helps you stay motivated to keep going.

3. Emotional Attachment and Guilt

Decluttering requires lots of decisions. You may feel attached to certain items, even if they no longer serve you. Without an outside perspective, it’s easy to second-guess yourself and default to keeping an item without considering if it does indeed spark joy for you. OR you may exhaust yourself by taking too many variables into account.  Or perhaps you are not sure how you to decide and you start considering mystical external criteria that has you, for example, keep an unloved item because it was a gift, and you would feel guilty about getting rid of it.

I get it. We’ve all been there. But here’s the thing: If it hasn’t sparked joy in the last five years, it probably won’t. It’s okay to let go, inanimate objects won’t take offence. I promise you your Aunt Carol’s antique saltshaker will happily serve someone else.

4. Lack of Accountability

When you’re doing it alone, there’s no one to hold you accountable. You might give yourself an extra “day off” when the process feels tedious or stressful, and before you know it, the clutter creeps back. Without accountability, it’s easy to let things pile up again.  Going it alone means you may treat decluttering as an ongoing, endless, tedious program without end, instead of the short-term project with the extremely satisfying reward end of a beautiful, tidy and serene home.

Decluttering doesn’t have to be a solo struggle. In fact, working with a professional organizer can turn a stressful process into an efficient, and—yes—fun experience. As someone who has moved internationally several times and worked with countless clients, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful it is to have someone by your side to guide you through the process. Here’s how a professional organizer adds value:

1. A Clear Process and Plan

One of the greatest advantages of working with a professional organizer is having a clear and structured approach. As a trained KonMari Consultant, I bring a proven method that breaks down the process into manageable steps. Whether we’re focusing on clothes, books, or sentimental items, I ensure that every category is addressed methodically, leaving no stone unturned. With a plan in place, you can focus on one area at a time without feeling scattered or overwhelmed.

It’s kind of like following a recipe for a great dinner, from the start you can picture the delicious result.

2. Faster Results, Less Stress

Decluttering with a professional organizer is much faster than doing it on your own. We help you make confident decisions and keep the momentum going. You won’t waste time trying to figure out what to do next or how to approach a tricky situation. Instead, we guide you through the process, helping you stay on track and motivated every step of the way.

Think of me as your personal coach, but without the whistle. Together we will make that “junk drawer” beg for a new name in no time.

3. A Non-Judgmental, Objective Perspective

When you’re decluttering on your own, it’s easy to get emotionally stuck on certain items. A professional organizer offers a neutral, non-judgmental perspective. I help you make decisions based on what truly sparks joy for you, not based on guilt or obligation. You’ll have a dedicated partner to help you separate sentimental value from practicality, allowing you to let go of items that no longer serve you while keeping those that truly enhance your life.

And don’t worry—no judgment here! I don’t even see the stuff, I am entirely focused on you and helping you find and keep only the things that make you happy.

4. Accountability and Support

One of the most significant benefits of working with a professional organizer is the accountability we provide. We’ll set achievable goals, track your progress, and keep you motivated throughout the entire process. Knowing that someone is there to guide you, offer encouragement, and celebrate your wins along the way will make a huge difference. It’s much easier to stay on track when you have a professional by your side.

Accountability is a big deal—especially when you’re deciding whether to keep the “special” sweater that’s two sizes too small. With a professional organizer, the shoulds don’t stand a chance.

Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up—it’s about creating a space that reflects who you are and what you truly value. Over the years, I’ve come to realize that organizing is not just a physical act; it’s a personal journey that leads to greater self-awareness and empowerment. As you declutter, you’ll learn more about your own habits, priorities, and desires.

When I help clients through this process, it’s not just about “getting rid of things.” It’s about understanding what items truly support your life and bring you joy and discovering what is important to you. For me, the KonMari Method is a beautiful way to help people reconnect with their values and create a space that feels truly meaningful.

Working with a professional organizer isn’t just about decluttering for a few days or weeks; it’s about creating lasting change. Once we’ve organized your space, you’ll have the tools and mindset to maintain order for years to come. You’ll learn how to make intentional decisions about your possessions, ensuring that your home remains organized and clutter-free.

And beyond that, the true gift of organizing is the mental and emotional clarity it brings. As someone who’s moved internationally, I can tell you that a clutter-free home is more than just a tidy space—it’s a sanctuary. It’s a place where you can relax, recharge, and focus on the things that matter most to you.