A messy house doesn’t just create physical clutter—it brings along negative energy, stress, and confusion that can affect your peace and happiness. Living in a disorganized space stagnates your daily life, making it harder to find joy and focus. The stress of searching for misplaced items or managing unnecessary belongings can lead to anxiety and overwhelm. That’s why it’s so important to let go of what no longer serves you. Donate, throw away, or repurpose unused items to breathe new life into your home. Your home is a reflection of your life—it mirrors your physical, emotional, and even spiritual well-being. When your space is organized, the energy flows better, and you feel a sense of harmony in your day-to-day. Tips for Creating and Maintaining an Organized Space: Let Go of What Doesn’t Serve You Surround yourself with things that bring you joy, positivity, and purpose. Anything that doesn’t contribute or support your well-being has no place in your sanctuary. Create a Place for Everything Organization starts with giving every item a home. When things have a dedicated spot, it’s easier to maintain order. Baskets are a great solution for busy families—assign one to each member for loose items and return them weekly. Start Small, Stay Consistent Building habits like making your bed daily, washing dishes right after meals, and putting items back after use can make a huge difference over time. Short on time? Set a 20-minute timer to tidy up, and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish! Get Everyone Involved Don’t let the burden fall solely on you. Get the whole family involved! Even little ones can pitch in by returning their items to their designated baskets or helping with small tasks. The Benefits of Decluttering: Decluttering doesn’t just free up physical space; it also clears mental clutter. Letting go of items that don’t add value creates room for new opportunities, better energy, and the things that truly matter. Memories and keepsakes have their place, but everything else should serve a purpose or spark joy. By creating a clean, harmonious home, you’re not only improving your environment but also empowering yourself to feel more confident, efficient, and free. Let’s simplify, organize, and make space for what truly matters.

It's not just that their homes always seem neat and tidy—it’s the intentional habits they practice every day. Here at ABODE, we believe that with a few minor changes, anyone can master the art of organization, creating lasting impact in their homes and lives. Here’s a roundup of the top 10 habits of highly organized people and how you can apply them to your own space: 1. Avoid the Big Black Hole Open spaces can invite chaos if not managed well. Instead of filling empty shelves with random items, use compartments, baskets, or organizers to separate different things. Whether it’s adding a chest for seasonal décor or a stylish catch-all for your keys and lip gloss, every item should have a designated home. 2. Reward Yourself for Tidying Even organized people know that some tasks can feel tedious, so they reward themselves for staying on track. Promise yourself a favorite treat or activity after completing a chore. Organize your garage, and then treat yourself to a nice dinner or a fun experience you've been wanting to do! 3. Say “No” to Spillover Overflowing closets and drawers are a surefire sign of disorganization. If your child has too many toys, consider sending some to charity before adding more bins. Keep only what you truly need, and avoid the temptation of letting clutter spill into your home’s living spaces. 4. Building Healthy Habits Organizing isn't just about stuff—it's about routines. Highly organized people have habits that keep them on track. For example, they rinse out their cereal bowl with one hand while starting the dishwasher with the other. It’s these simple, repeatable actions that keep clutter at bay. 5. Save 30 Seconds Now, Save Hours Later Organized people make quick decisions when handling items. When you're holding something, ask yourself where it belongs immediately. This small action prevents hours of cleanup later on, and keeps things from piling up unnecessarily. 6. Move "To Give" to the Car If you have a donation box or basket waiting by the door, make it a habit to transfer it to your car regularly. This way, unwanted items don’t take up space in your closets for weeks. Make donating a natural part of your decluttering process. 7. Use Hooks Over Floors The floor isn't a storage space! Instead of piling things in corners, use hooks for everything from coats to tools. Hanging items keeps your spaces neat and maximizes floor space, giving your home a cleaner, more open feel. 8. Adjust Shelves for Efficiency Take time to adjust your shelf heights to make sure they work for the items you need to store. Whether it’s your pantry, bookcase, or bathroom cabinet, customized shelving can make a big difference in how efficiently you use the space. 9. Think in Zones, Not Types Organized people arrange items based on usage, not necessarily by category. In the kitchen, group breakfast essentials together—pancake mix, syrup, and coffee. Create zones for tasks or routines in other rooms, like a pet station by the door for leashes and waste bags. 10. Let Go Without Regret Finally, the biggest secret to staying organized is not holding on to things you don’t need. When you remove the emotional attachment to objects and prioritize a cleaner, more functional home, it’s easier to let go. The result? A happier, more peaceful space. Adopting these simple habits can help turn any cluttered home into a more organized and peaceful one. Start small, and soon, organizing will become second nature. Need help putting these habits into practice? ABODE is here to help you take the next step toward a clutter-free home.

Howdy, I’m Jacqueline, a full-time flight attendant and the founder of ABODE. After years of balancing a demanding flying schedule and trying to keep my home life in order, I realized just how important staying organized truly is—both at 35,000 feet and on the ground. I know firsthand how chaotic things can get when you’re constantly in and out of airports, and that's what inspired me to create ABODE, a home management service for people like me, who live life in the skies but want to come home to a well-organized space. Here are a few of my favorite tips that have helped me (and can help you!) stay organized, whether you’re packing for a long trip or trying to keep your home from falling into disarray while you’re flying. Create a Pre-Flight Checklist for Both Home and Work Let’s be real—as flight attendants, we live by checklists. Having a **pre-flight checklist** that includes both work and home tasks can help make sure you're never scrambling at the last minute. My pre-flight list always includes: - Packing my essentials (uniform, badge, toiletries, and snacks) - Taking care of household tasks (laundry, emptying the trash, and meal prep) - Making sure I’ve set any reminders or schedules for appointments while I’m away It’s all about taking those last-minute “Oh no, I forgot…” moments out of the equation. Trust me, it makes a world of difference when your pre-flight routine is seamless. Streamline Your Packing Packing smart is one of the best things you can do for yourself. After years of trial and error, I swear by packing cubes to organize everything—uniforms, personal clothes, and toiletries. This way, I always know where to find what I need, even if I’m running on two hours of sleep and three cups of coffee.I also have a designated "work bag" that’s always packed with the essentials I need for every trip, like my passport, travel-sized toiletries, and work shoes. It’s my go-to, and I never have to worry about forgetting something important. Create a “Landing Zone” at Home One of the best things I ever did for myself was to create a **landing zone** in my house. This is a designated area where I do all my unpacking, throw in laundry, and charge up my devices the moment I get home. It’s helped me maintain some level of normalcy between flights and keeps my home from turning into a disaster zone. Your landing zone can include hooks for your bags, a space for shoes, and bins for dirty uniforms. This small habit has been a game changer for me and makes packing for my next trip so much easier. Time Zone Troubles? Use Digital Tools to Stay Organized Flying between time zones can be a mess for your schedule (hello, jet lag). One of my favorite tricks is to rely on Google Calendar to stay on top of my flights, appointments, and personal tasks. I set reminders for everything—appointments, meal preps, even when I need to do laundry. Keeping a digital calendar that adjusts with time zones is an easy way to avoid the confusion of juggling different cities, see your days planned out and ensure you’re not missing anything important. Let ABODE Help You Stay Grounded While You Fly I know all too well how difficult it is to stay on top of things at home when you're always in the air. Delegate tasks when you can! If staying organized at home feels overwhelming, ABODE can help. That's why I created ABODE—to help flight attendants and other frequent travelers keep their homes organized and running smoothly while they're away. From home organization to weekly management tasks, ABODE is here to make sure your home is in tip-top shape when you return. No more coming home to clutter or a never-ending to-do list.

Whether you’re a business traveler flying cross-country or a flight attendant juggling back-to-back trips, coming home to an organized and functional space is the ultimate in-flight luxury. But let’s face it—when you’re jet-setting, keeping your home running smoothly while you're away can feel like trying to land a plane in a thunderstorm! That’s where ABODE flies in. Think of us as your first-class home management team, ready to ensure your home stays in perfect order, even when you're thousands of miles away. From organizing your space to managing those “to-do” tasks you simply don’t have time for, ABODE is here to help frequent travelers like you stay grounded (in the best way possible). Your Home, Ready for Takeoff—Anytime You Are Imagine this: you’ve just landed after a long trip, and instead of walking into a cluttered mess, you come home to a pristine, organized space. Your pantry is stocked, your mail is sorted, and all those small tasks you’ve been putting off are already done. Sounds like first-class service, right? With ABODE, we make sure your home is ready for you, whenever you touch down. Whether you need help organizing your closet so you can quickly pack for your next trip or decluttering your kitchen so you can relax with a home-cooked meal, we’ve got it covered. Your home will be as easy to navigate as the airport lounge (minus the turbulence). Home Management While You’re 35,000 Feet in the Air Let’s be real: the last thing you want to do after a long-haul flight is catch up on a list of household chores. That’s why ABODE offers **home management services** to take care of those tasks while you’re away. Think of us as your personal ground crew, keeping things running smoothly on the home front. From scheduling repairs to overseeing deliveries or even ensuring your pets are well cared for while you're gone, we know leaving your furry friend behind can be one of the toughest parts of traveling. That’s why ABODE offers dog sitting and dog walking services tailored to your travel schedule. Whether it's daily walks, feeding, or just giving your pup some love and attention, we ensure they’re well taken care of while you're away. Pack Like a Pro with an Organized Closet One of the biggest challenges for frequent travelers is packing efficiently. With an unorganized closet, it can feel like you’re trying to pack for a flight without knowing where the gate is! ABODE can help you streamline your wardrobe, making it easy to pull together outfits in minutes We’ll organize your clothing by category (think work attire, vacation wear, and accessories) and even provide tips on how to maximize space. When everything has its place, packing for your next adventure will feel like smooth sailing and if you haven't already invest in packing cubes. Unpacking Service-Because You Deserve a Break We all know that unpacking after a trip is about as fun as an unexpected layover. Luckily, ABODE is here to help with that too. We offer **unpacking and organizing services** so that when you return home, you can relax right away without worrying about those piles of laundry or half-packed suitcases. We’ll take care of your post-travel mess and make sure everything is neatly back in its place, so you can enjoy a clean and organized space as soon as you walk through the door. Maintain Calm Between Takeoffs When you travel often, the little things at home can pile up fast. With ABODE, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your home is in great hands, whether you’re flying internationally or just on a quick overnight trip. We’ll help you set up systems to keep things organized all year long, so you don’t come home to any surprises. No more turbulence—just smooth, organized sailing every time you return. Final Call for Boarding! If you’re a frequent traveler or flight attendant juggling multiple trips a month, ABODE is your go-to solution for an stress-free home life. Let us be your copilot in managing your home so you can focus on what you love—traveling! Book ABODE today and experience first-class home management that makes coming home a joy, no matter how often you fly.

We’ve all been there—despite our best efforts, the clutter in our homes just won’t quit. No matter how many baskets you buy or how many times you reorganize the closet, the chaos keeps creeping back. If this sounds familiar, it may be time to call in reinforcements. At ABODE, we understand that ongoing clutter can be a sign of something bigger. Sometimes, what you really need is a fresh set of eyes, a listening ear, an inspiring voice and positive attitude to help guide you through your trouble spots. That's exactly what a professional organizer can offer. Why Professional Help Can Make All the Difference You might be thinking, "Do I really need to pay someone to help me organize?" But consider the value of your own time. How long would it take you to tackle that overflowing closet or organize your basement without help? How many half-finished projects do you have that just need an extra push to complete? A professional organizer will not only help you get the job done faster but also do it more thoroughly. Plus, having someone hold you accountable ensures you stay on track until the project is complete. That extra motivation can be a game-changer. Finding the Right Professional Organizer When hiring a professional organizer, it's important to find someone who understands your unique needs and has the experience to guide you through the process. Here’s what to keep in mind: Consider Specializations If you’re dealing with specific challenges like ADHD or hoarding tendencies, look for an organizer with experience in those areas. NAPO’s website allows you to search for professionals who specialize in various conditions and needs. Interview Organizers Don’t hesitate to call two or three organizers to get a feel for their style. Organizing can be a deeply personal experience. Whether virtually or in person, your organizer may see your personal papers, clothes, and keepsakes. Make sure you feel comfortable working with them. Getting the Most Out of Your Organizer Once you’ve found a professional who clicks with you, it’s time to dive into your project. But remember, the success of your organizing journey depends on collaboration. Here’s what to expect: Discuss Your Goals During your consultation, explain the areas where you’re struggling, whether it’s keeping up with paperwork, managing the garage, or helping your family get organized for busy mornings. Be specific about what’s causing you stress. Understand the Time and Cost Organizers may charge a project fee or hourly rate. Either way, be clear on what tasks are yours, how long the process might take, and what the fee structure looks like. The more involved you are, the quicker the process will go. Money Matters: Staying Within Budget If you’re on a budget, most professional organizers will do their best to work within your financial limits. However, keep in mind that smaller budgets often mean more homework for you. Organizers can provide a detailed plan with tasks for you to complete between sessions. This allows you to get the most out of their expertise while saving on face-to-face time. You Don’t Have to Do It Alone At ABODE, we believe that everyone deserves a home that feels calm, organized, and clutter-free. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your stuff, you don’t have to face it alone. A professional organizer can give you the guidance and accountability you need to take control of your space. Ready to get started? Let’s tackle that clutter together—one step at a time. ABODE is here to help you simplify, declutter, and organize your home, making life just a little bit easier. If you’re ready to bring in the reinforcements, contact us today for a consultation!

Our homes serve as more than just a roof over our heads – they're our sanctuaries, workspaces, and family hubs. At ABODE, we've long understood the profound impact that a well-organized living space can have on your mental wellbeing. Let's explore the psychology behind home organization and how it can positively transform your mind. 1. The Mind-Home Connection Your physical environment and mental state are intrinsically linked. A cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind, while an organized home promotes clarity and peace. At ABODE, we specialize in creating harmonious living environments that nurture both your space and psyche. 2. The Science Behind Clutter and Stress Research has shown that clutter can significantly increase cortisol levels – the body's primary stress hormone. A study published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology found that individuals living in cluttered homes reported higher levels of stress and fatigue. By implementing ABODE's organization strategies, you can create a stress-reducing oasis in your own home. 3. Organized Spaces and Improved Sleep Quality Your bedroom's organization directly influences your sleep quality. A tidy, clutter-free sleeping space can lead to better sleep patterns and more restful nights. ABODE's personalized bedroom organization solutions are designed to promote optimal sleep hygiene, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready to tackle each day. 4. Boosting Mood Through Home Organization An organized living space can have a profound effect on your mood. The sense of accomplishment from maintaining a tidy home releases dopamine, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter. One of our recent clients reported a significant improvement in their overall mood after we implemented our tailored organization system in their home. 6. Enhancing Creativity with a Tidy Workspace A cluttered workspace can stifle creativity, while an organized one can inspire innovative thinking. At ABODE, we specialize in designing home offices that foster creativity and productivity. Our expert organizers can help you create a space that sparks inspiration and enhances focus. 7. Reducing Anxiety with Systematic Organization Predictable, organized environments can significantly decrease anxiety levels. Knowing exactly where everything is eliminates the stress of searching for misplaced items. ABODE's method for creating calming, organized spaces is rooted in this principle, helping you build a home environment that soothes rather than stresses. 8. The Role of Organization in Family Dynamics A tidy home can improve family relationships by reducing conflict over misplaced items and shared spaces. Our approach at ABODE focuses on creating functional family spaces that cater to everyone's needs, fostering harmony and reducing household tension. Your Path to a Peaceful Mind and Home The psychology of home organization reveals that a tidy space is more than just visually pleasing – it's a powerful tool for mental wellbeing. From reducing stress and anxiety to improving sleep and boosting creativity, the benefits of an organized home are far-reaching. At ABODE, we're passionate about helping you unlock these benefits through our personalized organization services. Our expert team, led by Jacqueline Elaine, understands that each home and family is unique. We tailor our approaches to suit your specific needs, lifestyle, and preferences. Ready to transform your space and mind? Contact ABODE today for a consultation. Let us bring our expertise in creating organized, joyful living spaces to your home. Together, we can craft an environment that not only looks beautiful but also nurtures your mental wellbeing. Your journey to a more organized, peaceful life starts here.

Have you ever looked at your overstuffed closet or jam-packed garage and thought, "I bet someone would pay good money for this!" Turns out, you're right! The resale market is booming, valued at a staggering $28 billion and expected to more than double by 2024. Whether you're looking to make some extra cash, declutter your space, or avoid contributing to landfill waste, there’s never been a better time to sell your stuff. Ready to declutter and make some money? Here’s a quick guide to getting started. Before You Start Selling, Ask Yourself Three Key Questions: Why do you want to sell it? Are you focused on making cash or simply getting rid of things? While selling can bring in money, it’s not always fast. Donating may be more efficient if you need items gone quickly. Is selling worth your time? Sometimes selling isn’t worth the hassle. If no one bites after weeks of trying, consider gifting the item instead. The goal is to let things go! Should you store it instead? Storing things often just delays the decision. Ask yourself if you love the item or if it’s truly useful. If it doesn’t fit into one of those categories, it might be time to part ways. Ready to Donate? Here’s Where to Start: To Charity: Green Drop often accept contactless donations, and some locations will even pick up heavy items. Reach out to local shelters and local neighborhood groups as well—they may need things you no longer do. Unique is a great donation center in the DMV. To Be Recycled: Textile waste is a big problem, with 85% ending up in landfills. Fortunately, many retailers offer recycling programs! H&M, Madewell, and even activewear brand Girlfriend Collective accept old clothing and textiles for recycling. You might even score a discount for your next purchase! To Local Buy-Nothing Group: These Facebook-based, hyperlocal groups are like a virtual garage sale. Post your items for free and let your neighbors benefit from what you no longer need. It’s a win-win! Where to Sell Your Stuff There are countless platforms available to help you turn your unwanted items into cash, each with its specialty. Here's a quick rundown of the best options: Poshmark : Perfect for selling mid-range clothing, jewelry, and accessories. Snap some photos, upload your items, and set your price. You'll receive 80% of sales over $15. eBay: If you have collectibles like comic books, memorabilia, or stamps, eBay is your go-to. With over 1 billion active listings, competition is stiff, so price competitively! Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist: The most versatile options for everything from furniture to electronics. Post pictures, answer inquiries, and make your sale. You keep 100% of the profits. The RealReal: For designer handbags, clothing, and jewelry. They'll even send you a prepaid shipping label or arrange a pick-up. If you’re looking to offload Louis Vuitton or Chanel, this is your spot. How to Sell Your Items Quickly Now that you know where to sell, here’s how to ensure a quick sale: Take Great Photos: Clear, bright photos taken during the day are key. Use a simple background to let the item stand out. Be Detailed in Your Descriptions: Shoppers know they’re buying used, so don’t be afraid to mention minor blemishes or wear and tear. Honesty builds trust. Price Fairly: Research what similar items have sold for and price yours slightly higher to leave room for negotiation. Starting at 50% off the retail price is a good rule of thumb. Safety Tips for Selling Meet in a Public Place: When meeting buyers, pick a well-trafficked location like a grocery store parking lot. Bring a friend or share your location with a loved one for extra safety. Confirm Payment Beforehand: Don’t let the buyer leave with your item until you’ve confirmed the payment has gone through, especially if you’re using an app like Venmo or PayPal. Check For Goods: make sure you've emptied pockets and check for personal info. Give Thoughtfully, Not Just for Decluttering: It’s tempting to clear everything out, but remember to be thoughtful about the impact. Consider donating items that will make a difference to someone in need, not just as a way to offload junk. Selling, donating, or recycling your belongings is a fantastic way to declutter, reduce waste, and make a little extra cash. At ABODE, we specialize in helping you streamline your space and life. If you need guidance on what to keep, sell, or donate, we’re here to help! Have questions about how to get started? Reach out today—we'd love to help you on your decluttering journey!