29, Nov 2024
Intergenerational wealth transfer is when younger generations inherit the wealth of older generations who downsize or pass away. However, this is a unique historical period as the Great Wealth Transfer is underway. It’s the phenomenon where Gen-Xers and Millennials inherit the massive wealth accumulated by the Interwar and Baby Boomer… Read more
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
19, Aug 2024
Paintings, photographs, and other framed artwork adorn the walls of our homes and offices. They add aesthetic appeal to a room and reflect our personality. Sometimes, we purchase these pieces as status symbols or as an investment, hoping their value will increase over time. Unfortunately, most framed artwork is not… Read more
08, Jul 2024
Teaching organizing skills to children is a powerful way to set them up for success. In fact, it will help them learn to set priorities, make plans, stick to tasks – and complete them as they get older. Additionally, orderly environments give children a sense of control and confidence because… Read more
18, Mar 2024
Whether from childhood sports leagues, academic achievements, or professional milestones, old trophies and awards often pose a dilemma. They represent significant achievements in our lives and, as such, often hold sentimental value. However, as our lives evolve, there comes a time when we must let them go. Here is some… 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
07, Aug 2023
The years from kindergarten to high school graduation are filled with memories. Of course, school is where we learn languages, arts, maths, and sciences, but we also make friends and have unforgettable experiences. It’s no wonder we have so many souvenirs from our school days. However, carefully curating and organizing… 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
19, Sep 2022
Dear Out of Chaos, I’m ready to declutter and downsize, but my basement is full of other people’s stuff. What should I do? Yours truly, Retired Boomer. Very often, we receive questions like this one. Or we arrive at a client’s home and find bins of stuff that don’t belong… Read more
Get FREE clutter control tips from a professional organizer direct to your inbox! Sign up for my newsletter!
We have known and worked with Linda for many years. We are truly blessed to have known her. She helped us during the years with great mentor ship. People have told us that she is not only the best at what she does, but she does it with such class, and love for people. I highly recommend Linda Chu and her company.
— Mo K., Cleaning with Love