I’m thrilled to share that my book, Decluttered: Mindful Organizing for Health, Home, and Beyond has received an Independent Publisher Book Award!

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As a first-time author writing for a small, specific audience, I wasn’t sure how many people would find the book—or if it would resonate. I simply wrote from my experience (and my heart), in the same way I speak to clients and friends about the deeper issues behind clutter. So when someone tells me they found Decluttered in a library just when they needed it, or that it came up in a podcast and made a difference in their life, I’m genuinely moved. My hope is that this award helps the book reach even more people looking for thoughtful, compassionate guidance.

Decluttered addresses the underlying causes of clutter and offers actionable steps for living a more joyful, grounded life. With my background in public health—spanning over two decades designing health initiatives across the globe—I’ve come to see clutter not just as a home issue, but a whole-life one. Clutter can show up in our relationships, our bodies, our schedules. It’s often a signal of deeper imbalance.

In the book, I teach my signature mindful organizing process with empathy and intention. I blend personal stories from my time in African health clinics and my training with Marie Kondo, alongside writing prompts, science-backed insights, and creative exercises. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s clarity, ease, and connection to what really matters.

This recognition is also deeply personal. After leaving a job in public health to pursue organizing professionally, I didn’t know exactly where the path would lead. (CNBC recently shared more about that journey here.) Writing Decluttered felt like the next right step—and now, this award feels like a meaningful affirmation of that leap.

Thank you to Indiana University Press, the award committee, Birch Thomas for the photography, and Sunlight Editing for helping every page shine. And most of all, thank you to everyone who has read, shared, or gifted this book. I hope Decluttered continues to meet readers exactly where they are, and gently nudges them toward more spacious, intentional lives.