I was given a personality test once, and at the end I was told I am a “Creative Structurist.”  What this means, it was explained to me, is that while I like to be creative and inventive, I also enjoy order and structure. 

Looking back, I can see that I have always been that way.  As a kid I loved designing jewelry, but I also made sure they were exactly symmetrical and meticulously counted out every bead.  I rearranged my bedroom furniture just for fun.  My mom would come to me for ideas about how to lay out furniture or kitchen cabinets, or envision the best way to design an addition.  Then I began flipping houses myself, and enjoyed picking out the floor tile as much as scheduling the contractors and managing the budget.

 It didn’t really occur to me, though, this was an asset until I began my career in real estate.  It quickly became clear that about 75% of my clients were unable to visualize changes or improvements that might be made to a home.  This is not a flaw, it’s a personality type.  For many people, it just isn’t easy or interesting to try to imagine a space beyond what’s right in front of them.  It felt wonderful to be able to offer suggestions or ideas, as they were so well-received and appreciated. 

When I listed a client’s home for sale, I advised them where and how to declutter and make improvements.  I staged their houses and they showed like models.  This lead into being invited to help plan closets and nurseries and the like after clients closed on their new home.  Friends and colleagues asked me to come help them organize their home offices.  I began advising how to plan and implement parties or make unique thank-you gifts for clients. And it has just continued on from there.

Eventually I realized... wow, I really love helping people organize!  I could do this all day!  And now, I do.  It is incredibly gratifying to help people who feel overwhelmed by their projects.  Chaos is replaced with beauty and order, and this truly changes people lives.  They feel unburdened and free to enjoy the more meaningful parts of life.  I take great pleasure in connecting with people in this way, and am truly grateful I am able to earn a living doing it.