Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Melissa Foster. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Melissa with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic stems from a deep-rooted passion for helping others, influenced by the inspiring examples set by my parents. Watching my mom start her own business and never give up on what she wanted taught me perseverance and determination. My dad’s extreme work ethic to support our family showed me the importance of dedication and hard work. I remember going to work with both of them at different points in my life and watching as they not only worked to do the best job they could, but also how much they meant to the people whose lives they were a part of. There was no cutting corners or taking the easy way out, only doing the job and doing it right.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
As a professional organizer, it’s not just about tidying up spaces; it’s about transforming environments to bring peace, order, and a sense of calm. I help clients reclaim their homes and offices, turning chaos into calm, and in doing so, I also help them reclaim their peace of mind.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is empowering clients with the skills and knowledge they need to maintain an organized space long after I’m gone. Through teaching and hands-on assistance, I give them the tools to create lasting positive changes. Seeing clients thrive in their newly organized spaces and hearing how it has improved their daily lives is incredibly fulfilling.
Additionally, what makes my work special is the personal connections I build with my clients. I listen to their stories, understand their unique needs, and tailor my approach to fit their lifestyles. Each project is a collaboration, and I take great joy in supporting clients through various life transitions, whether it’s moving to a new home, dealing with the loss of a loved one, or simply wanting to create a more serene living environment.
In essence, what I do is special because it goes beyond organizing physical items; it’s about enhancing well-being, reducing stress, and helping people live more fulfilling lives.
Something exciting on the horizon is a podcast I have been working on with other organizers in the area. We’re still in the beginning stages but I learned a long time ago if I say it out loud it holds me accountable and pushes me to keep moving forward with that idea.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
The three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are persistence, connection, and a love of learning.
Persistence: Early on, I was told that the only difference between me and someone else achieving their goals is that they were brave enough to do it. They’re still human, they still feel nervous or scared, but they do it anyway. The idea of “failing forward” has been ingrained in my approach. For those who haven’t heard of it, failing forward is a concept that emphasizes the importance of viewing failures and mistakes as opportunities for growth and learning, rather than as setbacks. It means recognizing that failure is an inevitable part of the journey toward success and using each failure as a stepping stone to improve, adapt, and move closer to your goals. This mindset has allowed me to persevere through challenges, learn from my experiences, and continually push forward.
Connection: Building strong, supportive relationships has been incredibly important to me. When I started, I quickly realized I needed like-minded people in my corner. I actively sought them out through networking and even created The Professional Organizers Meet-up, where I could connect with people who understood my journey and could offer support. These connections have been invaluable, providing encouragement, advice, and a sense of community. The relationships I’ve built through this network have been a source of inspiration and motivation, helping me to grow both personally and professionally.
Love of Learning: When faced with a challenge, my instinct is to figure it out or find someone who can teach me. This love of learning has ensured my continuous growth and allowed me to adapt to the ever-evolving needs of my clients.
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
Overwhelmed is the number one word I hear from my clients. It’s a common feeling that can really take a toll on our mood, thoughts, and behavior. When I feel overwhelmed, I always start with the basics. I ask myself if I’m eating healthy, moving my body, and getting enough water and sleep. These fundamental aspects of self-care can greatly influence how we handle stress.
If I’ve taken care of those basics and still feel overwhelmed, the next place I look is my physical surroundings. Gretchen Rubin once said, “Outer order contributes to inner calm.” I firmly believe this. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, no matter what the cause, find a small space, like a countertop, and clean and organize that one area. This simple act can have a significant impact. It gives you a sense of accomplishment and control, leading to a more positive outlook.
Lastly, remember that when you are overwhelmed, tired, or stressed, the answer is almost always less. Simplifying your environment and your to-do list can help reduce the feeling of overwhelm. By focusing on what’s essential and eliminating the unnecessary, you create a more manageable and peaceful space for yourself.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.organizeahappyhome.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/organizeahappyhome/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/organize.a.happy.home.noco
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/organizeahappyhome
Image Credits
Photo of books was taken by Mellisa Rasor with Rasor Sharp Photography. All other photos were taken by Happy Home Organizing.
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