Spring cleaning

Interview

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: Dear Sophie, we’re excited to learn more about your fascinating work! To start, can you tell us what exactly an organizing coach does and how you got into this profession?

Sophie: As an organizing coach, I help people bring more structure and clarity into their lives – whether at home, in their home office, or in their digital files. Together, we declutter, find well-thought-out places for important items, and develop sustainable routines to maintain the newly created order. It's not just about sorting physical items but also about cultivating the right mindset to keep things organized without stress and for the long term.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: Many people take advantage of spring as a chance to deep clean and reorganize their homes. Why is spring cleaning such a great time to not only get rid of dust but also eliminate unnecessary clutter?

Sophie: Spring is the perfect time for a fresh start—not just for cleaning but also for decluttering. As the days get longer and brighter, many people feel a surge of energy and the desire for change. You can harness this motivation to get rid of unnecessary belongings.

While cleaning, you’re already handling items that often go unnoticed—so why not take a moment to decide whether you still need them? This way, you create not only cleanliness but also more space for what truly matters.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: A big decluttering session can quickly feel overwhelming. What’s the best way to start in an organized and efficient manner?

Sophie: That overwhelming feeling is often why my clients reach out to me. For some, it starts when their closet door won’t close properly; for others, it’s only when bags and piles start taking over their space. A major decluttering session can feel daunting without support. Of course, I assist not only with hands-on organizing but also by providing motivation and guidance to help my clients stay on track. If you’re starting on your own, here’s a structured approach:

1. Write a checklist – Which areas need organizing? Tackle them one by one.

2. Start with the biggest problem area – Focus on the space that bothers you most in daily life (e.g., wardrobe or desk) to get a quick sense of accomplishment. "Eat the frog first!"

3. Block out time slots – Schedule dedicated decluttering sessions in your calendar and set a timer. Even an hour can make a big difference!

4. Consider your energy levels – Are you more productive in the morning or evening? Find out when you work best.

5. Pre-sort items – Use small boxes or shoeboxes to group similar items before deciding what stays. Creating a designated sorting space is also important. It makes decision-making easier and prevents the mess from spreading further.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: How can people maintain long-term organization and prevent clutter from returning too quickly?

Sophie: Like in many areas of life, having a routine helps—and it doesn’t have to be complicated:

• 10-minute rule: Spend 10 minutes tidying up in the morning and evening to keep basic clutter under control.

• Designated places for everything: If you don’t know where something belongs, you can’t put it away. Drawers, bins, and boxes help your brain stay organized.

• Reduce packaging waste: Often overlooked but effective! Packaging takes up unnecessary space. The less waste, the more room for essentials. Organization isn’t a one-time event but a continuous process. With small, consistent steps, you can maintain order long-term.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: Spring cleaning often results in a lot of discarded items—clothing, decorations, old documents. What are some meaningful and sustainable ways to get rid of these items instead of just throwing them away?

Sophie: Instead of tossing things in the trash, consider these options:

• Donate – Give items to charities, second-hand stores, or organizations that support those in need (e.g., shelters, community centers).

• Get creative – Fabrics, glass jars, and old furniture can be upcycled—but be mindful not to hoard too much!

• Sell items – Use platforms like Vinted, eBay Kleinanzeigen, or local flea markets.

But also think about your own well-being: If the idea of selling things feels stressful, simply donate them all at once. Most importantly, reflect on your consumption habits to prevent new clutter from accumulating. My favorite rule to keep possessions manageable: One in, one out.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: You’ve helped many people transform their homes. Is there a particular success story or moment that stands out to you—one that shows how organizing can truly change lives?

Sophie: Almost all my clients report feeling lighter, freer, and more energized after our coaching sessions. But one story has stuck with me: A client and I spent three intense days decluttering her home. Afterward, not only did her space change, but her entire life did. Shortly after, she landed a new job—whether that was coincidence or not, I firmly believe that organizing creates room for new opportunities. When you change your home, you can change your life.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: Many people long for more structure and clarity in their homes, but don't know where to start. What advice do you give them?

Sophie: Often, clutter isn’t just about an overflowing wardrobe or having too many things—it’s also about uncertainty: Where do I begin? What if I can’t keep it up? My most important tip is: start small. Begin with one drawer or a corner of the room. That way, you avoid feeling overwhelmed. It’s also important to have a clear strategy. Together with my clients, I create individual plans that are easy to implement and work in the long term.

Engel & Völkers Schleswig-Holstein: Dear Sophie, thank you for your time and your valuable tips!

Order means more than just a tidy home—it creates clarity, structure, and a sense of lightness. With the right strategies, anyone can learn how to maintain more organization and well-being in the long run.

If you’re looking for personal support, Sophie offers free initial consultations. This gives you the opportunity to find out together which steps are best suited for you. You can find more information on her website: onemoreroom.com.