The HGTV Effect

We all love HGTV. House hunting, organizing, hoarders. Not necessarily doing those things, but watching other people do them is lots of fun. What happens when we spend hours of our days watching TV shows and reading about organizing in magazines? We think that we can have exactly what they have in such a smooth, picture perfect way.

They rearrange a 5 bedroom house that (in addition to the 5 bedrooms) has a separate room for books, yoga and studying. We think, we can TOTALLY be that organized and have everything so nice and neat in its place. We forget that we live in a 1 bedroom apartment where our library, office, kitchen, workout room, living room are all the same place.

The show can give you the motivation to make the change that you need to organize your life. That is great -  whatever gets you motivated! Beware. Remember that a lot of it can be staged for the show. It doesn't necessarily include everything the person owns or even their own things!

Let it spark ideas and inspiration to make your space feel like yours. Let it show you that you can use small spaces (or large spaces) to your advantage. But also remember what is realistic for you and your family.

Take what you learn by watching these shows and get creative!