19, Nov 2024
A while ago, I wrote an article explaining different definitions of value, indicating that people perceive value and worth differently. Behaviour economists and psychologists call this phenomenon the Endowment Effect. The Influence and Impact of the Endowment Effect Influence Several theories attempt to explain the psychology behind the endowment effect,… Read more
16, Sep 2024
During my years as a professional organizer in Vancouver, I discovered that the one thing that can easily derail the downsizing process is toys. Seriously, who wants to work when you can play – especially with toys from your youth? These toys remind us of a time when we were… Read more
09, Sep 2024
You worked hard to declutter your books. You let go of items you didn’t need or “spark joy.” All that remains is what you use and love – so why does your bookshelf still look messy? In fact, there are two aspects of untidiness; one is you have too many… Read more
15, Jan 2024
Some people collect coins and banknotes as a hobby. It’s a great way to learn about the history. In fact, almost all countries – Canada included – issue coins to commemorate significant events. Often, people accumulate currency of interest over their lifetime, or they might inherit some from a relative…. Read more
13, Nov 2023
Last year, during an estate clearout, the Out of Chaos team found some military medals. We posted a few pictures of them on social media. Colleague Jacki Hollywood chimed in and identified the medals for us. This year, I thought it was fitting to have her write a guest post… Read more
13, Feb 2023
I often discover trading card collections when I help families organize their homes. Children amass them to trade with their friends, and parents frequently roll their eyes at these messy piles of cards. However, there are benefits to card collections. Gaming cards can boost reading skills and memory retention and… Read more
10, Oct 2022
We worked with a client recently to pack their book collection for an international move. It got me thinking about collecting, caring for, and organizing your personal library. Owning vs Collecting I remembered an article from a few years ago that states, “…labelling a group of similar items a ‘collection’… Read more
18, Oct 2021
You have spent a lifetime building your collection of artwork, figurines, stamps, toilet seats, or Star Wars memorabilia. You’ve spent time and money carefully curating pieces that bring you joy and add value. Over the years, you have acquired knowledge and become an expert. But now you are moving to… Read more
16, Nov 2020
I read an excellent and touching article in the New York Times entitled “Down the Basement Stairs and Into the Past.” The author recounts his experiences when decluttering and downsizing memorabilia. As a professional organizer, I help people go through boxes, bags, and bins of their collection of souvenirs, inherited… Read more
20, Jul 2020
I recently heard a GenZ person provide these definitions for antique, vintage, retro, and collectible: Antique: Things your great-grandparents should have thrown out. Vintage: Things your grandparents should have thrown out. Retro: Things your parents should have thrown out. Collectibles: Things that are worthless to all but a niche group… Read more
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Thank you so much again to you and your crew – our home is once again our haven and not our place to avoid due to chaos.
— Sarah, living in boxes after recent move