Did we miss a new blog on Monday? We sure did! The holidays are fast approaching and what a better time to talk about the illusion of perfectionism. I wanted to post a new article every Monday to share more of my thoughts and experiences on home organizing. Today is Tuesday and we're here now. Nothing bad happened because things didn't go perfectly to plan.
You might think being a home organizer means I'm a perfectionist, but I like to think of myself as a functionalist. Oh you want to tell me that's not a word? Well, it is now. Here's how I see it: In today's world of social media influencers, Pinterest boards, and Instagram-worthy home tours, it’s easy to get caught up in the idea of a “perfect” home. The kind of space where every shelf is neatly aligned, the coffee table is free of clutter, and not a single item is out of place. These spaces are stunning, no doubt, but here's the truth that might surprise you: the "perfectly organized home" is OVERREATED!!
As a home organizer, I can tell you that while organizing can certainly enhance your living space, the idea that every home must adhere to an idealized, magazine-cover look is simply not sustainable — or necessary. Your home should be a place that meets the needs of the people who live in it, not a picture-perfect reflection of what society or social media says it should be.
If you are trying to get organized and feel like you're failing because it's not perfect- try reading this list of quotes from Vix Anderton's list linked below. My favorite is from Brene Brown. She really has a way of getting right down to that gut feeling and making me say "OOOOOHH RIGHT!" Perfectionism has held me back more times than it's ever helped me.
“Perfectionism is not self-improvement. Perfectionism is, at its core, about trying to earn approval. Most perfectionists grew up being praised for achievement and performance (grades, manners, rule following, people pleasing, appearance, sports). Somewhere along the way, they adopted this dangerous and debilitating belief system: “I am what I accomplish and how well I accomplish it. Please. Perform. Perfect.” Healthy striving is self-focused: How can I improve? Perfectionism is other-focused: What will they think? Perfectionism is a hustle.”
- from Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
Here are some things I've learned as a home organizer and a very unperfect human being:
1. A Home is Meant to Be Lived In, Not Styled
A perfectly organized home might look beautiful for a split second, but what happens when the kids come home from school, you’re prepping dinner, or a friend pops over for a casual hangout? Your home should be a comfortable and functional space that works for your real-life needs — and life is messy. Aesthetics should complement that, but they shouldn't be the driving force behind how you design your space.
Functionality should always come first. For example, if you have a family with young kids, you may prioritize areas for play, storage for toys, and easy-to-clean surfaces over an immaculate coffee table setup or perfectly arranged throw pillows. Your home isn’t a showpiece — it’s your sanctuary, a place where you relax, recharge, and create memories.
2. The Pressure of Perfection Can Be Stressful
It’s easy to get caught in the cycle of comparing our homes to the spaces we see online. The problem? This creates an unrealistic standard that adds unnecessary stress. No one’s home is perfect all the time — not even the influencers or professional organizers you might follow. (ahem, guilty of imperfection over here!) The constant pressure to maintain a flawless space can lead to burnout and frustration and that feeling of going in circles which leads to hating the home you're in. I promise you, no matter where you live- it's not about how much space you have or don't have- but more so your mindset about it. Let's consider what brings you peace and functionality in your daily life... Is it having a designated "home" for everything so you can quickly find what you need? (and I don't just mean you, this means your partners, children and roommates can all find things easier and stop asking you DAILY "where are the scissors?) Or is it creating cozy corners for relaxation with a few soft blankets and a favorite book? Prioritizing your mental well-being over the pursuit of perfection will ultimately make you feel more at home in your own home.
3. Sustainable Organizing Means Flexibility
Perfect organization doesn’t always translate into long-term success. Many organizing systems emphasize minimalist, tidy, or highly structured spaces, which can work well initially, but aren’t necessarily sustainable over time. Life changes, and so do the needs of your home. Organizing is an ongoing process — one that requires flexibility and adjustments as your lifestyle evolves.
For instance, what worked when you were single or living with roommates might not be practical when you’re living with a partner or raising a family. The idea of a perfectly organized home, with everything in its place, is bound to be disrupted by everyday life — and that’s okay! Families with children have to adapt to the eye level of little ones or organize their spaces around safety features and precautions. Yes I know those baby gates on the steps are annoying and not very pretty, but they are necessary for now! Another thing I think about is when I utilize bins, I try not to fill them. I always want you to have room to reach a hand in or be able to toss something new into it when cleaning up quickly. Functional organization adapts to those shifts, finding practical solutions that grow with you, rather than sticking to rigid, unrealistic standards.
4. Clutter Isn't Always Bad
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: CLUTTER For some people, a little clutter is a sign of a well-lived-in, comfortable space. It’s a reflection of creativity, activity, and a busy life. Decluttering your space doesn’t mean removing everything that’s not immediately useful; it means making room for the things that truly serve your life and bring you joy. That might mean having a few things out in the open — whether it’s art supplies on the counter, a favorite book collection on display, or even a few kids’ toys scattered around.
When we focus too much on eliminating all clutter, we can end up creating a sterile, uninviting environment, or one that will be filled back up with more "stuff" the second your family comes back home and the organizer is long gone. Embrace the items that add personality, warmth, and comfort to your home. Embrace the idea that some items may always live "out" and not be put away if they are frequently used. Large kitchen appliances were made for the counter, not the cabinets. You might be struggling with that perfectionist idea of clear counters, because that's what you see in staged photos or what feels easier to clean but most kitchens do not have space for that function- they are best staying where they are used daily. After all, it’s the things you use regularly or the items that spark joy that are most important, not the perfectly placed ones that look nice for a moment but aren’t functional in your daily life. Maybe you just don't need two toasters if you're always trying to hide one away- something to think about.
5. Function Over Form = Long-Term Organization
I truly think a home that serves your needs is far more satisfying and lasting than one that looks good for an Instagram post. A space that’s organized according to how you live — your habits, routines, and preferences — will be much easier to maintain over time. That’s where function becomes the star of the show.
Consider things like:
Creating accessible storage for your most-used items.
Designing spaces that support your lifestyle (e.g., a home office with tools that make you productive, a playroom with storage solutions that help kids clean up easily).
Having spaces that are flexible, allowing for change as your life evolves.
This approach isn’t about creating the "perfectly organized" home. It’s about making your home work for you in the most meaningful way.
6. Your Home, Your Rules
At the end of the day, your home is your personal space — and it should be a reflection of you and your needs. You don’t need to follow the latest trends or emulate a perfectly curated aesthetic. It’s okay to have a lived-in home that’s not “perfect.” It’s okay if things aren’t always arranged just so. What matters most is that your home feels comfortable, welcoming, and practical for the people who live in it.
So, take a deep breath, embrace the idea that organizing doesn’t need to be perfect, and create a space that truly works for you. The "perfectly organized home" may look great on a screen, but it’s the homes that are lived in, loved, and adapted over time that create lasting peace and joy.
I'll say it again, even as a professional I have learned that the "perfectly organized home" is overrated. I believe everyone is capable of having an organize home. You do not have to be perfect. Trust me, no one but YOU expect that. If embracing functional organizing hasn't worked for you on your own yet, or you think you have more "stuff" than you're happy with or you just don't know how to create a space for your things- reach out and we'll get you started on your organizing process that will work perfectly for YOU!
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