One of the most common New Year's resolutions is to get organized, especially after the hectic holiday season.

Many people tackle overcrowded closets, bursting junk drawers and crammed files with initial enthusiasm, only to give up as the prospect of organizing quickly becomes overwhelming. That's when Laura Lawrence, owner of Harmony Within and a professional organizing coach, comes in.

Lawrence has enjoyed organizing for years, but only began her organizing business in early November to spread her expertise beyond family and friends. While organizing may seems simple, she said, there is skill involved in creating an organized system that is easy to maintain.

"Anyone can clean a closet," said Lawrence, who is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers, "but organization is not a class we ever had in school."

During Lawrence's initial consultation with clients, she helps them determine what the problems are with their current organization system -- or lack of one -- and what is necessary to create a system that works for their individual needs. Lawrence will then design a system that works for that client, and will help them refine and adjust it until it works best for them.

"Sometimes it just really helps to have a new set of eyes to see what isn't working," she said.

The first step, Lawrence said, is to sort unorganized materials and toss items that aren't necessary. When those items are sentimental memorabilia, this can be the most challenging part of the process. Lawrence encourages her clients to decide whether the items are helping them in their current life or if they're keeping them in the past, and she also helps them see that other people may be able to use the items now.

That compassion, rather than ruthless decluttering, helps Lawrence connect with clients and to organize not only their physical spaces, but also their mental maps of those spaces.

"Letting an item go does not let the memory go," Lawrence said.

After sorting items, Lawrence turns her attention to how to put the remaining items back into the same space. She chooses containers and organizational tools based on each individual project, and the key is to keep the system simple and easy to use so clients can maintain the organization effectively.

"If it's not easy to put away it just doesn't get put away," she said.

Lawrence said her biggest challenge has been spreading the word about the services she offers. Many people don't immediately recognize the value of a professional organizer, even though they wouldn't hesitate to hire a personal trainer to help organize their fitness regimen or a life coach to help them organize their personal goals.

Lawrence has organized home offices, closets, drawers, garages and even entire homes, but her biggest recommendation to individuals seeking to organize their lives is to start small and celebrate each milestone toward becoming organized. Every step, she said, can help an individual achieve greater balance in their life.

"Organization brings harmony into your life," she said. "Rather than dealing with chaos all the time, you can deal with family, your job and your relationships."

INFORMATION BOX

Harmony Within

Address: 840 E. 900 South in Orem

Phone: (801) 376-3367

Fax: (801) 434-4039

Web site: www.harmonywithin.com