How I Became A Professional Organizer
Young Samantha
In Grade 5, I was invited to a party where we were invited to dress as “What I Want To Be When I Grow Up”. Young Samantha decided to task her mom with the job of figuring out how to create a costume for an “Interior Designer”. I can’t remember how I learned that was a job at such a young age, but I do remember always grabbing the free “New In Homes” magazines at the corner store beside the newspaper stands (do they still have these or did I just age myself?). I never actually read the magazine, I just flipped through and found all the floor plans, so I could critique the layout and dream about how I would furnish the space. Needless to say, my parents were called to my bedroom frequently to “check out the new layout” and hear my lavish ideas and why a trip to IKEA was crucial. During middle school, my family added a full second story to our bungalow and I loved being a part of the entire process. So at the ripe age of 17, getting accepted to the University of Guelph’s Real Estate and Housing program definitely felt like the right path for my higher education.
Educator at Heart
I always had felt a pull in my heart towards being an educator. Reflecting back on my time as a swim instructor, camp counsellor as well as founding the local chapter at UofG for the national charity Students Offering Support (an exam aid preparation program), I felt these were some of my most enriching experiences. I considered becoming a teacher, but instead found a job as a Real Estate Software Trainer, combining my two interests and allowing me to continue living in Guelph, Ontario. When my life brought me back to Toronto, I transitioned into a role at the University of Toronto, supporting continuing education programs for teachers, adult educators, coaches and other educators. During my time at UofT, I was able to, on a part time basis, earn a Master Degree in Adult Education and Community Development, solidifying my passion for education. It was also during this time, I was gifted Marie Kondo’s book, The Art of Tyding Up, by someone who recognized my natural inclination to process and order. This was my first lightbulb moment, realizing this is something people actually study, teach and get to do for a living!
Becoming a Mom
Nothing really prepares you for the inundation of *things* when you bring children into your life. I knew I wanted to build a home that prioritized living space over storage space, but what motherhood really helped me see was that organizing was more than just “a place for everything and everything in its place” (Benjamin Franklin). Life with kids is messy, and it became clear that functional systems that considered our routines was going to be the key to creating a home that was easy to tidy (not always tidy).
Joining the Professional Organizing Community
As my interest in organizing grew, so did the amount of professional organizers I followed on social media. I was amazed by their depth of knowledge about the psychology behind organizing and their genuine desire to help people. I attended the first Toronto chapter meeting of the Professional Organizers in Canada as a guest, where I was met with the most friendly and passionate people who advocated the community over competition attitude I’ve grown to proudly be a part of. Now, as an official member of the Professional Organizers in Canada, I’ve joined the Education Committee, so I can give back.
Taking the Leap
After 6 months of blogging and connecting on Instagram, I officially launched professional organizing services, offering virtual coaching and local in-person home organizing services. I’ve had the pleasure of working with some neighbours, friends and family to create functional organization in their homes. Now with my fresh business cards in hand, I’m looking forward to working with new faces to reach their organizational goals!
Looking for help, or know someone who needs help with an organizing project, Let’s Connect!
