No Shame: Thoughts from a Professional Organizer

 

These days, “shame” has become a buzzword. But it’s also something very real and very powerful.

Researcher and author Brené Brown defines shame as: “The intensely painful feeling or experience of believing that we are flawed and therefore unworthy of love and belonging—something we’ve experienced, done, or failed to do makes us unworthy of connection.”

When it comes to our homes and daily lives, shame sneaks in more often than we realize.

Think about the things you don’t hesitate to spend money on if you’re able to:

• Trips to the dentist
• Gym memberships
• Therapy
• Hair and nail appointments
• Massages

These are investments in your well-being. They help you feel better so you can be better. In many cases, you’re paying someone to do something you can’t (or won’t) do on your own—and there’s no shame in that.

But when it comes to our homes...here’s where things shift.

So many people feel like they should be able to manage a clean and organized home, keep up with to-do lists, and stay on top of endless projects. When they can’t, their first instinct isn’t to ask for help—it’s to feel ashamed.

As a Professional Organizer, I hear the same things over and over again from clients:

• “I thought I could do it on my own.”
• “I should be able to do this myself.”
• “I’ve been meaning to get to this for so long.”

Many are nervous to let me into their homes, worried I’ll judge them for how things look. The truth? That’s never the case. Once we work together, the overwhelming feeling shifts to relief and joy. They realize it’s about getting the right support so the job actually gets done.

Let's look at how clutter impacts you - and it’s not just about stuff - science backs this up: clutter isn’t just “a mess.” It has real consequences for mental, emotional, and even physical health.

Mental Health Effects:

• Increased stress and anxiety
• Reduced focus and productivity
• Lower mood and self-esteem
• Disrupted sleep patterns

Physical Health Effects:

• Elevated cortisol (stress hormone)
• Weakened immune system and digestion
• Poor eating habits
• Higher risk for health issues

Other Impacts:

• Strain on relationships
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Poor time management and constant overwhelm

Here’s the takeaway: Investing in support for your home is no different than investing in your health, appearance, or mental well-being, it aligns with all of these things. There is no shame in asking for help, this is your permission to ask for help. 

Take a moment to reflect:

• Where in your life are you struggling to keep up?
• What tasks drain you the most?
• What would life look like if you had help in those areas?

When you align your values, priorities, and budget, you may find that hiring support—whether it’s a professional organizer, cleaner, or other service—creates freedom and peace of mind that’s worth far more than the cost.

You might be surprised where it takes you 💚

Thank you for reading! 

Kristen 

Professional Organizer - London, Ontario

KAS KONCEPTS - Helping you get and stay organized! 

W: https://kaskoncepts.godaddysites.com