Patty Kreamer, CPO® – Pittsburgh, PA – www.ByeByeClutter.com
1) How long have you been a professional organizer?
I have been organizing all of my life – I started by alphabetizing my Halloween candy from Almond Joy to Zagnut. I was never told to clean up my room and I had a knack for getting rid of things when their time was up. I finally became a professional organizer 10 years ago in 1999 when I founded Kreamer Connect, Inc.
2) What inspired you to become a professional organizer?
When I first started out, I planned on doing organizing seminars but was terrified to speak in public so I would not market the programs very effectively. Two or three people would sign up and I would have to cancel but offered them time in their office to share what I knew. At first, I didn’t realize that the gift / curse of being organized was not shared by everyone. When it became clear how helpful my services were, I was hooked and committed to share my passion with as many people as possible.
3) What is the most common organizing project you’re hired to do?
I do a lot of professional speaking in corporations that then leads to working with employees in their workspace. This can take an hour or years, depending on the client.
4) What is the most common organizing challenge people have?
Over-commitment. One word that seems to be missing from people’s vocabulary is NO. This applies to work and home life and unfortunately, our children are being taught to load up their “plates” as well. This leaves so little time to enjoy life as it is meant to be enjoyed.
5) If you had to pick ‘your’ biggest organizing challenge, what would it be?
Procrastination. There are certain areas of my business that I continually put off. I have learned to reach out to my network to hold me accountable and this gets me back on track.
6) What one tips would you give to people who are trying to get organized?
The key is to NOT get organized…that is an event and only lasts for a little while. The key is to focus on BEING organized and realize that it is an ongoing process that never stops. It is vital to put systems in place that will work now and in the future so maintaining an organized life is possible.
7) How can potential clients get in touch with you?
They can call me at 412-344-3252 or visit the Contact Us page at www.ByeByeClutter.com. If you want to catch me blogging, visit http://organizingtipsfrompattykreamer.wordpress.com.
8) What resources do you offer readers who really want to organize their life on their own?
My website (www.ByeByeClutter.com) is loaded with FREE resources, from articles, to links, to Top 10 lists. Also, I have written 2 books – But I Might Need It Someday and The Power of Simplicity – that are full of practical ideas to organizing and simplifying your life. For the serious student, Patty Kreamer’s Clutter Rescue Course is a must! It’s a 25-week online e-course that comes with a companion workbook, making organizing success a sure thing.
She is seen regularly in the media as she shares her fun and energetic style with the audiences of publications like The Pittsburgh Post Gazette, Pittsburgh Business Times, and through television shows like LifeQuest, KDKA's Morning Show, and One on One with Lee Adams.
Patty is the Founding Past President of the National Association of Professional Organizers – Pittsburgh chapter and Past President of and The National Speakers Association – Pittsburgh chapter. Patty was named Women's Business Network's 2007 Woman of the Year as well as one of Pennsylvania’s Best 50 Women in Business and one of Pittsburgh’s Fastrackers in 2005.
Patty leads the way in spreading the word about how we can be more productive, perform better and simplify our lives.