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
12, Nov 2024
At some point in our lives, we all experience grief. This intense emotional state typically involves sadness and crying. In the movies, we often see people eating ice cream straight from the carton or numbing their emotions with a more potent substance. However, today’s fast-paced world still has high expectations… 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
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
18, Sep 2023
Many times, I’ve mentioned the benefits of downsizing. The people who downsize enjoy a safer home with lower maintenance even if they do not move to a new house. But it isn’t easy. The costs of downsizing are emotional and financial. And those costs depend on what you plan to… Read more
12, Jun 2023
Boxes of printed photographs and photo albums are common in many household closets and storage spaces. While people don’t access them frequently, they want to keep them because they represent the family’s history and memories. However, unless photographs are properly preserved, they will degrade over time. That’s why many people… Read more
20, Mar 2023
Did you know that 44% of Americans who moved to a new home admitted to crying at least once during the process? I assume the results of a Canadian survey would be similar. The survey also indicates that over 50% of Americans have some regrets about moving to a new… Read more
13, Mar 2023
According to research, clearing clutter from your home and work environment improves focus and productivity. That’s why I was surprised by some articles and trends in the news promoting the benefits of clutter. However, if you read between the lines, they are talking about the desire to keep their stuff…. Read more
16, May 2022
The words ‘decluttering’ and ‘downsizing’ can have negative connotations. They imply loss and restriction – the world and everything in it is shrinking. On the other hand, a treasure hunt suggests adventure, excitement, and new possibilities. Here are some ways to turn the chore of downsizing into an exciting experience…. Read more
23, Nov 2021
I was quoted in Investment Executive last week in a retirement and downsizing article entitled, Take a Load Off. I highlighted some practical steps retirees can use to organize their estate. It will reduce the burden on their executors after they have passed on. On Purging Possessions… One challenge is… Read more
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Linda and her team were such a pleasure to work with, and they literally and figuratively did all the heavy lifting to accomplish what felt like a Herculean task in a record period of time. I would not hesitate to recommend Out of Chaos to anyone – you won’t find any better professionals at the top of their craft!
— Anna Y.