In today’s fast-paced world, clutter is a common problem that plagues individuals and families alike. The accumulation of possessions can lead to stress, disorganization and a sense of overwhelm. I recognized the need for order and simplicity in my own life, so I embarked on a journey that ultimately led me to start a cleaning and decluttering business.
THE CHAOS:
As a child, I found myself overwhelmed by the sheer amount of stuff in my own living space. I grew up with two brothers, who never picked up after themselves. The clutter was suffocating, both physically and mentally. I would clean up, and the messes would quickly reappear.
As this cycle repeated, I started creating spaces for them to drop their things and organized the house to fit everyone’s habits. I realized my process was working, and the house was much neater. Witnessing the positive impact this change had on my own life ignited a desire to share this newfound clarity with others. It changed how I viewed spaces as I grew older. I could walk into a room and organize it in my head.
THE PASSION:
I discovered a deep-rooted passion for helping others find their own sense of calm amid the chaos. I recognized that many people struggled with clutter and disorganization, often lacking the time, energy or expertise to tackle the problem effectively. Understanding clutter’s detrimental effects on mental and emotional wellbeing, I felt compelled to make a difference. I began creating serene spaces for my friends and family for free. After years of hearing that I should charge for my services, I finally decided to turn my passion into a business.
The business: Getting started was simple and easy. I have a business degree and know all the components of forming a business entity and all the necessary steps to ensure my venture was set up properly. I also started off with a contract to assist a new business in setting up its office space and organizing its operating processes. I also had a one-year contract to help a retail business organize and categorize inventory. The money was flowing, and life was good. I was living my dream.
I rode the success wave for a full year before the bottom fell out. All my business background and training did not prepare me for the slow times. After my contracts ended, I found myself with only a few small projects that were few and far between and did not pay the bills. It took me on a downward spiral, where I started second guessing my decision to try entrepreneurship. I did not have the security of a regular paycheck, and I began to imagine all the worst-case scenarios. That took my mind far from why I started the business in the first place.
One day, I decided I needed to either take charge or get a job. I didn’t want to get a job because that would mean that I failed after just getting started, so I decided to do something. A friend told me about a workshop for small business owners, and I decided to attend.
The first topic was “What is your WHY?” It was an in-depth look at why I started my business and how to create a plan for sustainability and growth. The speakers and Instructors taught me how to go easy on myself and talked about the pitfalls and how to pull myself out. This was just what I needed and surely a divine intervention. That workshop motivated me to turn my business around and showed me how to build the life I wanted.
THE CLARITY:
Starting a decluttering business has been a fulfilling and purpose-driven endeavor. By leveraging my experiences, passion for helping others and commitment to sustainability, I strive to create harmonious spaces that promote wellbeing and tranquility. Whether it’s decluttering a single room or revamping an entire home, my goal is to provide tailored solutions that empower individuals to embrace simplicity, find clarity and embark on a journey toward a more meaningful and fulfilling life.
Teresa Youngblood owns ACC, LLC dba All Clean & Clear in Gulfport and specializes in decluttering, packing and organizing spaces. You can reach her at (228) 910-8020 or Teresa@alternativeconceptsbusiness.com.