Start Sooner Than You Think
If you’ve ever thought about moving—even if it’s a year or two away—you might wonder when the “right” time is to start getting organized. I hear this question often, and every time I do, I feel a little spark of excitement. Because the truth is, giving yourself time is one of the greatest gifts you can offer yourself during a transition. It allows everything to unfold gently, thoughtfully, and with far less stress.
The Gift of Starting Early
I recently spoke with someone who said, “We’re thinking about moving in the next year or two. When should we start getting organized?” And I couldn’t have been happier to hear it.
Starting now—before packing even begins—is incredibly wise. It creates space to make calm, intentional decisions about what truly belongs in your next chapter. Instead of rushing through drawers and closets while surrounded by boxes and deadlines, you get to move at a pace that feels steady and manageable.
There’s something deeply empowering about knowing you’re preparing, not reacting.
Lightening What You Carry Forward
When we begin organizing early, something beautiful happens. We start noticing the items that no longer serve us. Maybe it’s something broken that never quite made it to the repair shop. Maybe it’s something outdated, or simply something that no longer feels like you.
And when you recognize those things now, you give yourself permission to let them go with intention.
Because every item you release is one less thing to pack. One less thing to carry. One less thing to unpack and find space for later.
What remains is what you truly use. What you love. What supports your daily life.
This makes the moving process feel lighter—not just physically, but emotionally too.
Creating Ease for Your Future Self
As we organize in advance, we’re not just decluttering. We’re building clarity. We’re creating systems. We’re labeling, sorting, and giving everything a home.
And when the day comes to pack and move, everything feels simpler.
Unpacking becomes smoother because you already know what you have. Your new home begins with intention instead of overwhelm. Instead of opening boxes filled with uncertainty, you open boxes filled with purpose.
It’s one of the kindest things you can do for your future self.
Moving isn’t just about changing locations. It’s about stepping into a new phase of life. And when you take the time to organize with care, you carry forward only what supports who you are becoming.
Every item you thoughtfully choose to keep, every drawer you bring into order, and every decision you make with clarity is part of that journey. And it all begins with one gentle, intentional step forward.
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: cottonbro studio @cottonbro
