Sarah Deitz from Reclaim Your Space is based in beautiful Otford on the NSW East Coast, about an hour from Sydney. She services the Illawarra, Southern Highlands and Sydney’s South & Inner West suburbs, as well as providing virtual services. Sarah kindly agreed to be interviewed. I’m sure you’ll find what she has to say interesting.
Tell me Sarah, who do you work with? Who is your ideal client?
I love working with busy families. As a mum I know how hard it is to stay on top of the day-to-day demands and I believe that what’s in your home should be intentional and organised in a way that makes your life easier, reduces your daily decisions and makes you happy!
A large proportion of my work is also with NDIS participants which has been pivotal in realising the impact and value that a professional organiser can have on a person’s life. On the surface we’re dealing with the physical space and stuff, but there is such a huge correlation with our mental wellbeing. I’m also undertaking further study around neurodiversity, in particular working with people with ADHD.
What drew you to the organising industry and how long have you been in it?
I was studying to be an interior designer, and was particularly interested in designing functional spaces for busy families. By the time I graduated I was pregnant, and I spent my maternity leave planning and researching an interior design business. As I went down rabbit holes, I discovered Professional Organising was a thing and I had a lightbulb moment where I could not only help people that were renovating, but also help people optimise their existing spaces. I still design kitchens and bathrooms, and find my experience as an organiser ensures that the design takes into account all the storage needs of the client. I’ve been doing this for five and a half years now and loving it!
What was the pivotal moment for you starting out as an organiser?
Meeting other organisers and being offered the opportunity to sub-contract to get exposure to the breadth and depth of the work.
What’s your favourite thing about organising?
I actually get excited when I see a really cluttered space. The client is often overwhelmed and doesn’t know where to start. But I know that we can make a huge impact in a short space of time. It’s really satisfying seeing the transformation, not just in the space, but the amazement and sense of relief in the client.
To what do you attribute your success as an organiser?
The first few years of my business I didn’t feel successful. I knew I was capable, and I knew that there were other successful organisers, but it wasn’t working for me. I considered going back to my old career, but I knew I had found my vocation and needed to make it work. I identified that I was the one standing in my own way and that I needed a support network around me. So, the past couple of years I have focussed on my mindset and connection with other organisers. And in the past year I’ve actually been achieving my goals and finally feeling successful not just on paper, but within my inner self.
What is one habit that helps your life run smoothly?
There are so many! Habits and routines are the key to making your life easier! If I had to pick one, I would say it’s having a weekly review and plan. I normally do it on a Saturday. I look at what I’ve achieved the week before and reflect on anything that has come up, and then I plan the next week. I look at my diary, see what appointments I have and then I go through my to do list and pick out the priorities for the week both business & personal.
What’s a guilty pleasure of yours?
As part of my mindset work I’ve been working on balance in my life, making sure I take time for self-care and fun and not feeling guilty about it! I do end my day watching Netflix and eating ice-cream when my LO has gone to bed.
Is there any area of your life or home where you are not organised?
Absolutely. It’s like a chef making beans on toast for dinner. Organising is iterative, so you have to keep revisiting areas as they get out of control. Currently on my list I need to do my underwear drawer, my laundry and the cupboard above the fridge. I also have a constant battle with my email inbox.
What is one thing people may not know about you, that you’re willing to divulge?
I’ve lived in 12 different homes over the course of my life so far… I left home at 16 and got my first mortgage at 18, as soon as I legally could! When I was 24, I packed up my whole life into one suitcase and moved half-way across the world from London to Sydney where I had never been. I’ll have been here 19 years this year!
What would you say to someone just starting out as an organiser?
For most organisers I talk to, this isn’t just a business to make money, it’s a passion and a lifestyle choice. It’s not easy, but it is a journey of self-discovery and growth. On a practical side, connect with other organisers and do some sub-contracting.
Is there something else you think people should know?
I’m currently promoting a group coaching program to Reclaim Your Kitchen. It starts on Monday February 27th. You can find the details at https://www.reclaimyourkitchen.com.au/6wk
Thanks Sarah, and congratulations on your success. I’m sure it will inspire others.
