We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Theresa Russell. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Theresa below.

Theresa, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Getting that first client is always an exciting milestone. Can you talk to us about how you got your first customer who wasn’t a friend, family, or acquaintance?

My first client was actually an acquaintance of mine. She was looking for help with her home office. I was at a point in my life where I was burnt out. I had spent many years teaching preschool and had recently started going to graduate school to become a therapist. I honestly needed a break. This job taught me so much. It showed me that you can only give to others if you have taken care of yourself. I learned about the intricacies of a space, communicating with clients, and the drive it takes to own a business.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am an intentional home organizer. I work with people who are overwhelmed in their space. I help them to be mindful of what they are keeping in their home, so they gain time and energy. At some level, we all have deep rooted attachments to items. They evoke certain memories or feelings. Releasing this is part of the organization process.

I honestly feel that I differ from other organizers because of my education and background. I am currently studying to become a therapist which provides a level of emotional support from a trained standpoint.

I also have invested time in learning about reiki, feng shui, and sacred geometry. These modalities allow to consider the feel of a space. If you ever notice there is a room or building that evokes a peaceful emotion, that is no coincidence. Creating a good flow and energy takes awareness.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A lesson I had to unlearn and honestly am still unlearning is avoidance. I grew up in a home where we did not talk about our emotions. This created habits of coping that were not healthy. As an adult this led to pushing my feelings down through alcohol. For years I avoided through emotional drinking, eating, or television.

February of 2021 is when I got sober. I am ten months alcohol free today. I am so proud of myself for this! It has radically shifted my life. With this, has come a flood of emotions and memories that I never processed.

This is why I have understanding for my clients. I recognize that they feel strong emotions. Especially when it comes to material things and habits. Providing support through active listening and validation is essential.

Are there any books, videos or other content that you feel have meaningfully impacted your thinking?

I feel that things in my business are at their best when I am. I am constantly reading new books. However, there are two in particular I want to mention. The first is atomic habits which has brought more awareness into my life. The second is you are a badass at making money. Cultivating my relationship with money is a continual process. It is something I believe is beneficial for everyone to look at. The way we have grown up and the thoughts we have about money influences us. Breaking down those negative engrained beliefs has been a core part of moving forward in my business.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.homegirl.space
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homegirl.space/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/homegirlspace
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkoS1CMIuiYK6CDwvKfYFMw
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/homegirl-san-diego

Image Credits
Detalles by M Early Morning Light Studio