We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Rebecca Deans a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Rebecca, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Finding my purpose has been a fascinating journey rooted in a lifelong love for organization. Since I was a little girl, I had a natural knack for making things neat and orderly. While other kids were playing outside, I was having a great time sorting and arranging my CD collection. Those CDs weren’t just music to me; they were a chance to organize them by type and put them in order from A to Z.
People around me noticed how much I enjoyed keeping things in order. Friends, family, and others started asking for my help with organizing stuff. I became the person everyone turned to for advice about getting things in shape, whether it was at church, school, or anywhere else. Being the person everyone counted on for organization gave me a sense of purpose.
Then came the year 2012, a really important time for me. I was working as an assistant for a Mary Kay Director, and she asked me to organize her office to make it function better. It might not sound like a big deal, but it was a huge moment for me. It was my first time getting paid to organize, and that was a game-changer.
Looking back, that experience helped me figure out my purpose. It wasn’t just about putting things in place; it was about creating spaces that made life easier. Seeing how my work made people’s lives better made me realize this was more than just a hobby – it was what I was meant to do.
Now, I’m a blend of passion and profession. What started as something I enjoyed as a kid has become my mission to help people make their lives smoother. Every time I organize a space or set up a system, I’m reminded that an organized life can bring happiness and productivity. Discovering my purpose has been an exciting journey – a story that shows how using your natural talents can lead to something really meaningful.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m all about turning chaos into harmony! I’m an organization enthusiast, and what I do is help people declutter, streamline, and create systems that make their lives smoother and more enjoyable. Whether it’s a cluttered closet, a messy kitchen, or an office drowning in paperwork, I step in to bring order and functionality to spaces.
What’s most thrilling about my work is witnessing the transformation that takes place. It’s not just about arranging items neatly – it’s about the impact that an organized environment can have on someone’s mental and emotional well-being. When I see the look of relief and joy on my clients’ faces as they step into a tidy and well-organized space, it’s incredibly rewarding. There’s a tangible sense of empowerment that comes from being able to find what you need without the stress of rummaging through clutter.
My approach is all about understanding the unique needs and preferences of each individual. No two spaces are the same, and no two people have the same organizational style. I collaborate closely with my clients to create solutions that are tailored to their lifestyles, making the process not only effective but also personalized and enjoyable.
In terms of what’s new, I’m expanding my services to offer digital and virtual organization consultations. This means I can now work with clients from around the world, helping them transform their spaces even if we’re miles apart.
Overall, my goal is to inspire people to embrace the beauty of organization and recognize the positive impact it can have on their lives. I want to show that creating order doesn’t have to be overwhelming – it can be an exciting and fulfilling journey of self-discovery and transformation.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting on my journey, there are three key qualities that have truly shaped my path.
Passion and Enthusiasm: One of the most impactful qualities on my journey has been genuine passion and enthusiasm for what I do. It’s this inner fire that propels you forward, especially when faced with challenges. If you’re just starting, focus on finding what genuinely excites you. Passion fuels perseverance and creativity, making the journey more enjoyable and fulfilling. Explore different areas and activities, and once you discover your passion, nurture it and let it guide your choices.
Adaptability and Learning: In a rapidly changing world, being adaptable and open to learning new things is crucial. Early on, I realized that organization isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept. Each person and space has unique needs, so I had to constantly learn and adapt my methods. Embrace new ideas, seek out different approaches, and be willing to adjust your strategies based on feedback and experience. Continuous learning keeps you relevant and helps you provide better solutions to your clients.
Empathy and Communication: Understanding the needs and perspectives of others has been fundamental. Empathy allows you to connect with your clients on a deeper level, leading to better outcomes. Effective communication is equally essential – not just in terms of relaying information, but also in listening actively. Early in your journey, practice active listening and empathetic communication. These skills foster trust and ensure you’re addressing the core issues your clients face.
What is the number one obstacle or challenge you are currently facing and what are you doing to try to resolve or overcome this challenge?
Currently, the primary challenge I’m facing revolves around the balancing act of expanding my services while maintaining the personalized approach that defines my brand. As demand for my organizing services grows, I’m focused on ensuring that every client receives the same level of attention, customization, and care that comes with my name.
To overcome this challenge, I’m implementing a few strategic approaches:
Streamlined Processes: I’m refining and streamlining my processes without compromising the personalized touch that clients value. This involves identifying areas where automation can be introduced, such as appointment scheduling and some communications. By automating routine tasks, I can allocate more time to the creative and personalized aspects of my work.
Selective Growth: While expansion is exciting, I’m being mindful of the pace at which I take on new clients. This allows me to maintain quality and uphold the individualized approach that’s essential to my brand. By carefully selecting projects that align with my mission and values, I can continue delivering exceptional results.
Delegation: I’m exploring opportunities to delegate certain tasks to a trusted team. This empowers me to focus on the aspects of my work that directly contribute to the unique experience clients receive. Delegation allows me to efficiently handle multiple projects while ensuring that each client feels valued and well-cared for.
Continual Learning: I’m committed to ongoing professional development to enhance my skills in managing a growing client base. This involves staying updated on industry trends and seeking guidance from mentors who have successfully scaled their businesses without compromising quality.
Feedback and Communication: Open communication with clients is key. I’m actively seeking feedback to ensure that my services are meeting their expectations and needs. This helps me identify areas for improvement and make necessary adjustments to maintain the high standards my brand is known for.
Overall, I view this challenge as an opportunity for growth and refinement. By combining strategic innovation, careful decision-making, and a commitment to excellence, I’m confident that I can navigate this obstacle and continue providing the personalized and impactful services that define my brand.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shiftintoorganized.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shiftintoorganized/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShiftintoOrganized/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccadeans/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@shiftintoorganized
Image Credits
Headshot: Ellen Peek Photography
