Do You Assign Homework?

Do you assign homework? This question from clients always puts a smile on my face because it reminds me of a show I obsessively watched in college: Trading Spaces.

On the show, two neighboring families would swap houses for a weekend and work with a designer to make over a room in each other’s home. After a full day of tackling whatever crazy idea the designer had in mind, they were often given homework to finish overnight, usually painting or sewing. You could see how exhausted they were the next morning, which probably didn’t help their mood when it was time to reveal the finished rooms. Some makeovers were hits, but the misses were always my favorite!

So, do I assign homework after an organizing session? Generally, no. At least, not the kind with a deadline. I may suggest a few things you can do between sessions to fine-tune a space or keep things working well. But I don’t want you to feel like you have another to-do list hanging over your head. And, if you don't get to something between sessions, that's OK! There is no need to feel guilty or apologize. We're working toward making your home function better for you, not giving you another reason to feel overwhelmed.

There is, however, one assignment that everyone can work on and that is to shop with intention.

The work we do together is about identifying what serves a purpose in your life right now to make room for the things you love and use, and to let go of the things that are no longer serving you. As we work toward creating a home that feels more manageable, it is incredibly helpful to be more mindful about what you bring into it.

This isn't about never shopping or feeling guilty about a purchase. It’s about making purchases that feel right for you rather than bringing things home out of habit, boredom, or the need for a quick burst of dopamine.

Remember, the goal isn’t perfection. It’s about making thoughtful choices that support the life you want to live and the home you want to enjoy. Small, intentional decisions with your shopping habits can make a difference over time. And when you bring fewer unnecessary items into your home, you will find it easier to maintain the spaces you’ve worked so hard to organize.