We all have stories or beliefs that play on repeat in our minds—sometimes without us even realizing it. These internal narratives can drive our actions, but they can also create unnecessary stress. Here’s a step-by-step approach to uncover, question, and replace those stories:

1. Recognize the Story: Pay attention to the thoughts that whisper to you throughout the day. For example, my story used to be, “There isn’t enough time.” It was there constantly—when I showered, ate, worked, or tried to relax. Writing these thoughts down can help bring awareness to them.

2. Reflect on Its Purpose: Ask yourself, “How has this story served me in the past? Has it helped me achieve something or protect me in some way?” For me, that story of scarcity pushed me to achieve amazing things. I was constantly driven and racing the clock, but it came at the cost of constant pressure and stress.

3. Question Its Truth: Is this story still true for your current life? Challenge it. I realized that my race was complete. Going faster and harder wasn’t going to get me where I wanted to go any sooner. I’m still driven and achieving, but I’ve shifted my approach—slowing down, increasing my intention, and focusing deeply on what matters. That’s what serves me now.

4. Replace It with Intention: Create a new, empowering story that aligns with your values and goals today. I replaced “There isn’t enough time” with “I have enough time for what matters most.” But here’s the key—getting intentional about what it even is that matters most is half the game. Taking the time to define this brings clarity and focus, making the new story even more impactful.

5. Practice Presence: Build intentional pauses into your day—whether it’s a mindful moment during your morning coffee or a deep breath before starting a task. Slowing down can reduce pressure and increase clarity. My coach, Hannah Abad at [hannahabadcoaching.com](https://hannahabadcoaching.com), walked me through this whole discovery and encouraged me to slow down even “one tick.” That simple shift made all the difference.

6. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge the moments when you catch yourself shifting from the old story to the new one. It’s a win worth celebrating! For me, every time I intentionally slow down and focus, I’m reminded that I’m living in alignment with my new story.

How This Ties to Home Organizing

Stress and clutter go hand in hand—

Our physical spaces often reflect our mental state. Just as I uncovered and replaced my internal story, home organizing can help you rewrite the narrative of your living space. Here’s how the same approach applies:

1. Recognize the Story in Your Space: Many people have stories tied to their clutter, like “I might need this someday” or “I don’t have time to organize.” Recognizing these beliefs is the first step to creating a peaceful, organized home.

2. Question Clutter’s Purpose: Ask yourself, “How has this item served me in the past? Does it still serve me now?” This reflection is a powerful way to let go of things that no longer align with your current life.

3. Replace Clutter with Intention: Just as I replaced my story with a new one, you can replace clutter with systems that support your lifestyle today. Organizing your home intentionally can give you that “soft place to land” and make your space work for you.

4. Slow Down the Process: Organizing doesn’t have to be a race. Taking it one step at a time—whether it’s a drawer, a room, or an entire home—can make the process more manageable and enjoyable.

5. Celebrate Progress: Every small win in your organizing journey is worth celebrating. Whether it’s a decluttered pantry or a beautifully set-up closet, these victories add up to a home that feels lighter, calmer, and more intentional.

At Organized by Keli & Co., we specialize in helping clients transform their homes into spaces that reflect their goals and values. Whether you’re moving into a new house or simply want to refresh your current space, we’re here to help you create a home that feels like your “soft place to land.”

Want to learn more about our unpacking and organizing services? Let’s chat.

Warmly

Keli