03/30/2019
This closet belongs to a 10 year old girl who at first, was a rather reluctant client. In the beginning she stated "you guys are destroying my room!" as her mom and I worked. She was particularly upset because she had put in a lot of effort to do it herself before I even got there.
Despite that, the closet was in need of some major decluttering and organizing so that Grandma would have a place for her belongings as well during an upcoming, extended visit.
As we worked, I continually assured her I would not throw away anything without her cosent. I also reminded her that if I did something that didnt work, she could always change it back or to a different way that worked better for her. I continually engaged her and let her know why I thought items needed to go. I asked questions like "do you really need to keep your size 6 clothes that don't fit since you are a size 10 now?", and "is there a reason you need 31 long sleeve shirts when you hate long sleeves and only wear them when your mom makes you?". I made sure to be gentle and humorous and not pushy. Soon she began to trust me and we made great progress!
Now Grandma has space for her clothes and the closet is not cluttered with unused items. Her crafts are organized, easy to get to and there is more space in the closet and whole room. Before I left, she gave me a hug and said thank-you.
Moral of the story? I work with my clients, not against them, I work hard to establish trust, involve you and never force anything- after all, this is your stuff and your space. I know if I am gentle, and reasonable good things happen!
Her and her mother are both extremely pleased with the outcome.
