Today, you might be wondering if you should hire someone to help you get organized—or maybe you’re feeling stuck about where to even begin your organizing project. If that sounds familiar, this post will help guide you through those first steps and the emotions that come with getting organized.

Many of my clients admit they feel overwhelmed and unsure about where or how to start. That uncertainty often causes clutter to grow and stay out of control. You might even say, “I just don’t know where to begin!”—and that’s completely normal.

Where to Start When You Feel Overwhelmed

The right time to start is when you can’t find what you need, when you need it—or when the clutter around you starts to create stress or anxiety. If your home or office feels chaotic, and the piles keep growing, it’s time to take action.

Remember: asking for help is progress. Even deciding to seek guidance is a big step toward a more organized life.

Why Asking for Help Is a Smart Move

Sometimes that help comes from a no-nonsense friend who’s honest with you. But often, hiring a professional organizer gives you both structure and accountability. A professional organizer will guide you, teach you practical systems, and help you stay organized long after the project ends.

Clients often tell me how much they’ve learned during our sessions—how they now ask themselves, “What would Lulu do?” They begin using new organizing habits every day, creating spaces that feel lighter, calmer, and easier to maintain.

The Hardest Part Is Starting

In my experience, the biggest barrier isn’t the clutter—it’s making the decision to begin. Once you start, you’ll feel relief and even excitement. It’s normal for things to look worse before they get better, but that’s a sign you’re making progress.

Start small. Give yourself a specific block of uninterrupted time—even 30 to 60 minutes—to work on one manageable area:

• A bookshelf
• A drawer
• A single closet shelf

As you clear out small areas, you’ll build momentum and confidence.

Where to Focus First

If your home office is causing the most stress, start there. Or maybe your closet or bathroom feels out of control—choose the space that will make the biggest difference in your daily life. Once you experience the satisfaction of that first success, you’ll feel motivated to keep going.

Next Up: Tackling Paperwork

Paperwork is a little different from other clutter, and it requires its own system. I’ll be sharing a step-by-step guide on organizing paperwork in an upcoming post—so stay tuned and subscribe to get new organizing tips delivered right to your inbox.

Final Thoughts

Getting organized isn’t just about your stuff—it’s about creating clarity, reducing anxiety, and making your home or office a place that supports your goals. When inspiration meets action, progress begins. Taking even one small step toward organizing helps ease uncertainty and gives you the confidence to keep moving forward.

So start today. Pick one area, set a timer, and take that first step. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter and more focused you feel once you begin.

Updated October 2025 with new insights and organizing strategies.