In this blog post, we’re diving into highlights from Episode 5 of my Keep Calm and Organize On podcast, where I had the pleasure of chatting with Cindy Wezenbeek. Cindy is the owner of CW Organizing, a Canadian Armed Forces veteran, and the past president of the Professional Organizers of Canada. She brings a wealth of experience to the table, blending her military background, project management expertise, and passion for helping people navigate life’s transitions. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation!
Life in the Military: A Unique Perspective
Cindy shared fascinating insights from her 20-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces, where she served as an aviation technician. Her work involved everything from aircraft maintenance to pre-flight checks.
When asked about her favorite aircraft, Cindy’s answer was clear: “The F18.” She also fondly mentioned the Snowbirds, a Canadian favorite, and her experiences at airshows, which are always a highlight.
Transitioning from the Military to Professional Organizing
After retiring from the military, Cindy completed studies in project management at Carleton University. She combined these skills with her organizing expertise to launch CW Organizing. Her ability to manage complex logistics shines, especially when helping clients with multi-faceted moves, like combining households or downsizing.
Cindy highlighted how her military background in event planning and coordination naturally led her to organizing. “It’s all about problem-solving and bringing together the right resources to make the process seamless for clients,” she explained.
Tips for Stress-Free Moves
- Use Checklists: “Write everything down and cross it off as you go. This helps reduce mental clutter and keeps you on track.”
- Declutter Before Packing: Cindy stressed the importance of letting go of items you no longer use. “In small spaces, every item counts. Decluttering makes moving and unpacking easier.”
- Involve Kids in the Process: For families with children, preparing them for the move can make the transition smoother.
Creative Solutions for Small Spaces
- Maximize Vertical Space: Use shelves, dividers, and containers to organize and contain items efficiently.
- Flexible Storage Solutions: Drawer inserts and modular organizers can make deep closets more functional.
- Seasonal Reorganization: Cindy emphasized the importance of revisiting your storage solutions regularly, especially in small spaces.
The Organizing Community: Collaboration Over Competition
Cindy’s role as the past president of the Professional Organizers in Canada (POC) has deepened her connection to the organizing community. She praised POC’s supportive network, which provides valuable resources like business templates, training, and mentorship.
“When you’re part of the organizing community, it’s not competitive—it’s collaborative,” Cindy said. “We’re all about supporting each other and sharing ideas.”
Giving Back to the Military Community
As someone deeply connected to the military community, Cindy offers discounts to military personnel and their families. Her firsthand understanding of their unique challenges, from frequent moves to adjusting to new spaces, makes her services especially valuable to this group.
If you’re in Nova Scotia and looking for organizing help, Cindy can be reached through her website at cindywezenbeek.com.
For more organizing tips and inspiration, stay tuned to Keep Calm and Organize On! You can connect with me, Julie Witherell, through juliesorganizingservices.ca.
Trained Professional Organizer & ADHD Specialist 