Get a Team and Clean the Garage!

Jobs are sometimes better suited for a team. Usually I work with a client alone, but increasingly I find the benefit of multiple hands. Garage organizing, for instance, is a prime example of work that is enough for 3 or more people to keep busy and productive.

Garages need to be addressed at least once a year, as things tend to collect in the large open space, beginning with a box for recycling that doesn’t get taken out and ending up with an assortment of things brought from other places. We put one thing to the side, and then another, planning to address it at a future date. When that date is finally declared, help makes all the difference!

I encourage you to set a date and organize your garage. I’d love for you to set the date with me, as I love decluttering and organizing garage spaces and have a few tricks for storing and using things that do not cost a lot of money. But this is also something that can be done with family or with a friend. (You help your friend one weekend and they help you the next!)

There are different kinds of friends available and each type offers specific pros and cons. Availability and willingness are not always the best criteria for choosing someone with whom to work in a space. Consider these types and their individual value to you:

When you work with a team, there are several things to keep in mind to have the day run smoothly.

First, have a positive mind set. Work through any ambivalence you have toward the work. Be on the same page with others in the house about the work you propose to do. Know what you will and will not discard, but be open to changing your mind.

Second, have a few tools that make the job flow. A good ladder, for instance, makes all the difference in reaching things easily and storing rarely used items up high. Furniture slides are also helpful, even to move a partially loaded shelf to another wall if you change your mind about placement. If you are moving big-ticket items, have the necessary dolly and truck. Renting equipment has saved more than a few relationships with the friends with trucks.

Third, have a general plan that will keep people busy. Some work needs your direct attention, but other work can be done with a few simple instructions and time. Consider the type of workers you have and let them help you out of their strength.

Finally, be sure to take water breaks to refresh and regroup. A glass of lemonade or cup of coffee and a brownie are also a nice touch! Allow around 6 hours to make a big difference in a big space.

Working with another person or two keeps up momentum, allows for collaboration on some decisions, and multiplies exponentially the change that can occur. If you need a team, let me and my assistants come to your rescue!

All the best,

Susan