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SLR: Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to talk
with us. I'm used to interviewing writers, so this is new
territory, but we thought with spring approaching we'd throw
something unexpected in for our readers. So, thanks.
AC: My pleasure.
SLR: Have you always been an
organized person and when did you realize that there were people out
there that you could help get organized?
AC: I have always enjoyed the
process of getting myself organized. It gave me a sense of power
that made me feel like anything was possible. It was a natural
process to begin to organize friends and family. I was amazed to see
the relief in their body language and facial expressions after I had
finished. I began to realize that a lot of people do not know where
to begin the process of getting organized. Sometimes piles become so
unmanageable that people turn the other way because it is easier
than having to deal with the clutter. Now, energetically what
happens is these cluttered areas become a negative space that
creates guilt for people. What I do is help people get rid of the
guilt and come up with systems that will work for them so that they
can free up their energy.
SLR: What’s wrong with having a
lot of stuff?
AC: Nothing, if you use all of
it and it is stored neatly. However, when people start to accumulate
large quantities of items and do not have systems in place or the
room, things can get out of control. Where I start to get pulled
into a project is when disorganization begins to cost people time
and money because they can’t locate what they need.
SLR: If I get rid of things in my
home or office, so what? What will that do for me? Won’t it just
make more space for more stuff?
AC: Try to only use 75% of your
space. Leave room to breathe, some empty space is healthy because it
reduces mental chaos. According to Feng Shui principles, you want to
symbolically give yourself room to grow. For example, clients will
tell me “I want to increase my business by 30% this year” but they
have every file cabinet packed so tight you can’t even fit a finger
inside. They are sending a message to the universe that they have no
room for growth. Your environment should reflect your goals and
aspirations! One of my favorite quotes by David Baird is “Allow
yourself the time and space to grow into your ambitions”
SLR: What rooms in the house are
most important that we have in order?
AC: The rooms where you spend
the most time because you are seeing the clutter more frequently.
Out of sight out of mind works to some extent but the clutter still
creates negative energy that can become draining.
SLR: What do you tell packrats?
Those people that hate to let go of things because they may have a
use for them someday?
AC: Live light and give to the
universe. Keep what you really love and give up what you do not
need, it is truly freeing.
SLR: Can you give us one or two
easy organizational tips that anyone can begin using in their home
today?
AC: One,
when you get the mail do not bring in
what you do not need. If possible set up a recycling bin so unwanted
items do not make it through the door.
And two,
If you have not used it in two
years donate it!
SLR: Sometimes I see a well
organized place and wish it had more character and a lived-in
quality—not clutter, just character. Ideally, organizing and
decorating would work together in a house. Do you have any
suggestions for combining both décor and organizational techniques?
AC: Absolutely! Many people see
a minimalist décor where people are over organized and they get
panicky thinking they could never live this way. But, so many
organizing solutions can work with whatever decorating style you
have established in your home or office. For example, using a bamboo
rice steamer or an ornate Chinese pot to hold your car keys, wallet
or miscellaneous items both work and compliment different styles.
Use color and practical solutions to create warmth in your space and
peace of mind at the same time.
SLR: In your opinion, what is the
greatest benefit to being organized?
AC: Freeing up your energy so
you can think creativity and go after your goals with a clear head.
One of my clients, a wedding invitation designer, thanked me over
and over because she said she could not have created her new Spring
line of invitations if she was still stuck in her previously
cluttered state.
SLR: I know you have written a
workbook for teenagers incorporating the feng shui philosophy on
organizing their rooms and building their confidence. Are you
working on anything right now that we can expect to see in the book
stores?
AC: I am currently working on
100 Fast, Fun & Creative Organizing Ideas
SLR: Since we are a literary
site, focused primarily on literature, thank you for taking the time
to talk with SLR. I have to ask—who’s your favorite southern author?
AC: I’d have to say Margaret
Mitchell.
SLR: Excellent choice. Thanks
again.
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If you'd like to learn more about clearing your
clutter and getting organized from Amie's Lifestyle Solutions, go to
www.Abundantspace.com
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