Not Today and That’s Okay
A woman writes notes in a notebook that sits on a table with baked goods and decorations scattered about.
Is my house perfectly organized? Not today! And I am at peace with that because I have an even better priority and a plan. My current priority is to continue enjoying the 12 days of Christmas (today is day 8) and my plan is to do organize for myself after I tend to my clients.
When Real Life Takes the Lead
First of all, I’m not a minimalist. We’ve downsized a couple of times, very intentionally, choosing a smaller home and a bigger yard — more trees, more breathing room, more life outside our walls. And right now, my home is particularly not well organized.
That’s not because I don’t know what to do. It’s because I’ve chosen to defer certain organizing projects until after the holidays. That decision is on purpose.
Two things are happening at the same time. One, I’m focusing on how many hours I can give my clients so they can meet their organizing goals and actually enjoy the holidays the way they want and need to. That matters deeply to me. And two, I genuinely love the holidays. I love wrapping gifts, sending Christmas cards, decorating the house, and preparing special things for my family. Those things take time, energy, and attention — and I’m choosing to give it to them.
Giving Yourself Permission to Choose
Right now, I’m spending my time there instead of maintaining perfectly organized spaces at home. And that’s okay. I’m happy. I’m enjoying it. I’m helping other people. I’m creating a season that feels meaningful and warm.
You can’t do all the things all the time. And you don’t need to.
It’s important to defer tasks to a time on your schedule when they actually make sense for you — when you have the resources. And resources aren’t just time. They’re emotional bandwidth, too. Right now, if all I were doing was reorganizing cabinets, I’d feel sad and disconnected. But organizing my holiday lists and wrapping gifts neatly? That brings me joy.
Those choices still count as getting things done. They’re still acts of care. They’re just aligned with what matters most right now.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
Come January, things will get really well organized. I know that. I’ve planned for it. And when the season shifts, my energy and focus will shift with it.
That’s the part I want you to hear most clearly: organizing isn’t about perfection or proving anything. It’s about timing, intention, and honoring where you are in your life right now. Progress can look quiet. It can look seasonal. And it can absolutely look like choosing joy when joy is what you need most.
Every choice you make that supports your peace counts — even if the cabinets can wait a little longer.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Gustavo Fring @gustavo-fring
