When helping clients sort and purge, organizers often come across a number of items clients have that they do not know they have such as shopping bags and delivery boxes stuffed with purchases the client may not remember acquiring.  Sometimes clients have items they intended to return but have not yet found the time to do so.  Many clients have gifts they purchased with someone particular in mind for a birthday or a holiday and that gift is hidden under the piles.  Organizing is often as much about learning to control the obtaining as well as parting with items.

Many times the acquisition of things is more of a thrill than the item itself for people that struggle with disorganization.  People are drawn to an item priced at clearance 80% off, or the most clever hand mixer they have ever seen (even though they already own a hand, stand and stick mixer).  Many decide to shop for new clothes for a night out even though they already have a closet full.  Many clients see shopping as a stress relief or leisure activity, which is perfectly okay until they feel it is interfering with the life they want to lead or their vision of an organized home.

Imposing a designated waiting period like 24 or 48 hours before making purchases large or small can help dilute the desire to acquire and that instant gratification they need.  People with acquisition issues often find when they walk away from an item for a period of time, the want of that item diminishes.  That time away from the item can help the person evaluate their need versus their want. 

Others struggle with impulse control as part of their executive function in the brain.  In these cases, professional organizers work in tangent with counselors to develop an action plan to address the client’s issues with shopping and/or acquisition. The plan may include various therapy exercises and in some cases medication which helps the client with impulse control. 

Regardless of how or why people have developed issues with purchasing or acquiring items, there are many professionals such as professional organizers and therapists who can help re-train those habits and rituals.  The professionals with National Association of Professional Organizers are a great jumping off point for those looking to work on their shopping habits and bring order to items in their home.

Christy Lingo, Professional Organizer, Simple Solutions Design