This site is under re-construction for 2023. Please bear with me. You're welcome to send broken link reports!
About ...
... The logo
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The symbol on my inspection clipboard originally represented the 4 key decluttering actions: from a knotty pile of clutter we sort things into Keep Here, Keep Elsewhere, Recycle (the top 3 directions), or we Discard (out the bottom).
It now also represents the potentials of the Specialist Services -- with either Coaching or Assessment uplifting the client (that would be you), while all the heavy stuff falls away. In both cases the desirable result is a sunny -- but not too sunny ;-) -- outlook. |
... Inspector Ross
I'm captivated by the many ways that decluttering and organising can improve or solve things, especially when applied holistically to 'where we're at' -- self, home and surroundings. My publications and blogs reflect this layered approach.
While I now deliver all Inspector Ross materials and assistance in ways that support independent learning and self-management, the following principles, written with formerly direct coaching in mind, still apply:
'Inspector' refers directly to the fact that all jobs start out with an inspection. This might seem routine, but it's surprising how often a really good look at a pile of clutter or a situation is, well, overlooked. Yet it may reveal that the problem is different than it seems. So Inspector Ross inspects, asks questions, notes connections, works out what to do, helps do the work (that's 'helps do', not 'does'); then educates, guides & cheer-leads you toward an improved level of operation.
Specialist Services 1 & 2 are registered under the umbrella of Inspector Ross as The Blind-Spot Detective & Vibe Squad, respectively. As The Blind-Spot Detective, I help you follow a trail of clues to uncover either personal or material blind spots; and in the Vibe Squad I take a close look at site factors and check them off against a list of ideals; hence these 2 services infer 2 different types of inspectors, in this light-hearted new approach to personal consulting.
I'm held accountable through a number of codes & regulations .
While I now deliver all Inspector Ross materials and assistance in ways that support independent learning and self-management, the following principles, written with formerly direct coaching in mind, still apply:
'Inspector' refers directly to the fact that all jobs start out with an inspection. This might seem routine, but it's surprising how often a really good look at a pile of clutter or a situation is, well, overlooked. Yet it may reveal that the problem is different than it seems. So Inspector Ross inspects, asks questions, notes connections, works out what to do, helps do the work (that's 'helps do', not 'does'); then educates, guides & cheer-leads you toward an improved level of operation.
Specialist Services 1 & 2 are registered under the umbrella of Inspector Ross as The Blind-Spot Detective & Vibe Squad, respectively. As The Blind-Spot Detective, I help you follow a trail of clues to uncover either personal or material blind spots; and in the Vibe Squad I take a close look at site factors and check them off against a list of ideals; hence these 2 services infer 2 different types of inspectors, in this light-hearted new approach to personal consulting.
I'm held accountable through a number of codes & regulations .
... Heidi
I started out in the personal services industry in 2008 as a Professional Organiser, using the business name Revive Organising Services. My main clients then were home-based business owners or hobbyists. The object was to revive flagging business or personal enthusiasm. While this led to more emphasis on paperwork & tutoring, the more people I met, the more I realised there is a great need for individuals who are trying to get challenging things done, to have someone 'sensible' & non-judgemental to talk to and help them resolve problems.
Then, of course, many people today are interested in how to make their home more environmentally-friendly, while taking care of other aspects of home life, too.
I gradually developed the 2 Specialist Services to provide standard, objective frameworks within which the client is empowered to accomplish the above according to their own standards. They had to be objective, because who's to say I'm sensible? Really. Thus Inspector Ross began in 2013. I work part-time in a medical library, as I'm a qualified Information Manager (librarian, records manager & archivist, to be precise, although my position -- which I enjoy -- is far more humble :-)
I have certificates in bookkeeping, small business, interior design, educating, & style consulting, all of which have provided stable foundations for ongoing professional development. Obviously, I have a special interest in holistic well-being, towards which I've directed these diverse threads.
Update on qualifications: Recent professional development has earnt me formal Certificates in Professional Organising and Life Coaching -- more on the way!
Yes, I've been a generalist, holding such past jobs as a drafting assistant, spiritual counsellor, educator, style consultant, courier driver, bookkeeper, house packer, & family history librarian. This is why I feel confident there are few personal matters you could present that we would not be able to find a path through. You're welcome to try, though!
Then, of course, many people today are interested in how to make their home more environmentally-friendly, while taking care of other aspects of home life, too.
I gradually developed the 2 Specialist Services to provide standard, objective frameworks within which the client is empowered to accomplish the above according to their own standards. They had to be objective, because who's to say I'm sensible? Really. Thus Inspector Ross began in 2013. I work part-time in a medical library, as I'm a qualified Information Manager (librarian, records manager & archivist, to be precise, although my position -- which I enjoy -- is far more humble :-)
I have certificates in bookkeeping, small business, interior design, educating, & style consulting, all of which have provided stable foundations for ongoing professional development. Obviously, I have a special interest in holistic well-being, towards which I've directed these diverse threads.
Update on qualifications: Recent professional development has earnt me formal Certificates in Professional Organising and Life Coaching -- more on the way!
Yes, I've been a generalist, holding such past jobs as a drafting assistant, spiritual counsellor, educator, style consultant, courier driver, bookkeeper, house packer, & family history librarian. This is why I feel confident there are few personal matters you could present that we would not be able to find a path through. You're welcome to try, though!
The nasturtiums?
I chose them because they so symbolise Inspector Ross concerns: the blithe beginning leading to a clutter cycle, with the risk of created blind spots & overlooked resources, which both lead to messy decay if not managed. Besides, they're a bit of annual beauty from my garden that happened to match my original site template :-)
FAQ
This section may be adjusted during the remainder of 2021 to meet the shift of focus from services to writings.
1. What do you actually do?
I provide specialised decluttering know-how. It's packaged into digital products you can try or buy. You can use them privately or obtain support. These products may be simple, mildly challenging, or advanced. The Inspector Ross approach tailors decluttering to specific situations. Some of these situations are just a bit of a hassle, while some can prevent you from making progress or acting in your own best interests; these become quite complex over time ('wicked' problems). Tackling them requires patience, a methodical approach, and a range of skills including non-stuff decluttering. Yet the individual steps don't need to be hard. Putting the physical stuff in order is always a great place to start. Decluttering the Inspector Ross way might not earn you any housekeeping awards, but it will help you be your own champion through life.
2. How is this different from routine organising?
The Everies Book, and each Inspector Ross service, is structured with something extraordinary in mind. They each tend to 'circle' their target and tackle it bit by bit, so it gets addressed from all angles in a gentle yet persistent way.
There are 3 main streams:
3. What is an Organiser?
An Organiser, or Professional Organiser (PO), is a person who is knowledgeable & skilled in reducing clutter and reorganising worthwhile possessions and other 'things' to better suit the user. The Organiser may have additional specialities.
4. Are you an Organiser, a coach, a consultant, or a tutor??
A writer!
I used to be all 5, and still embrace them all in my info products and new service modes. I turn the skills of each to whatever we're working on, or whatever I'm writing for your use. I really like to help clients and customers gain the confidence and skills needed for you to take action against whatever clutter hampers personal progress.
5. What is a 'wicked problem'?
I recently found an adequate external explanation for what drove me to design these services the way I did. It's embraced in the concept of wicked problems. This is a term for a particular concern in public policy, as I found here: https://www.apsc.gov.au/tackling-wicked-problems-public-policy-perspective . It says, "The term ‘wicked’ in this context is used, not in the sense of evil, but as a crossword puzzle addict or mathematician would use it—an issue highly resistant to resolution."
The page I obtained this quote from is one of the most readable government documents I've ever come across. It was all the more gripping because it just as easily describes the diabolical sort of problem an individual sometimes faces, where none of your best-aimed efforts seem to work -- year in, year out. The document clearly lays out why that is: such problems need more helpers.
If you can't get the right helpers -- or even while you work with them, using the Inspector Ross approach calms down many elements that have contributed to a wicked problem, without absorbing all your attention, emotion and resources in 'trying to fix it'.
More FAQs & FMCs (Frequently Made Comments) form part of a special booklet I wrote for you. It's completely free! Simply email me via the Contact Form for your no-hassle copy. Write 'FAQ booklet' in the subject line.
Or download from here.
TIP: If you use the Contact Form method, why not take the opportunity to get a bonus question answered? Ask any single question inspired by your browse of this site, and I'll answer that as best I can.
1. What do you actually do?
I provide specialised decluttering know-how. It's packaged into digital products you can try or buy. You can use them privately or obtain support. These products may be simple, mildly challenging, or advanced. The Inspector Ross approach tailors decluttering to specific situations. Some of these situations are just a bit of a hassle, while some can prevent you from making progress or acting in your own best interests; these become quite complex over time ('wicked' problems). Tackling them requires patience, a methodical approach, and a range of skills including non-stuff decluttering. Yet the individual steps don't need to be hard. Putting the physical stuff in order is always a great place to start. Decluttering the Inspector Ross way might not earn you any housekeeping awards, but it will help you be your own champion through life.
2. How is this different from routine organising?
The Everies Book, and each Inspector Ross service, is structured with something extraordinary in mind. They each tend to 'circle' their target and tackle it bit by bit, so it gets addressed from all angles in a gentle yet persistent way.
There are 3 main streams:
- The Everies method guides decluttering and organising in a way that seems general, but impacts all areas of life in regular, cyclic nudges.
- The Blind-spot Detective untangles clutter from more personal issues -- such as moral dilemmas -- in a similar, all-points-nudge fashion.
- Vibe Squad is for whole-home enhancements or when you're ready to take responsibility for an even wider zone around you.
3. What is an Organiser?
An Organiser, or Professional Organiser (PO), is a person who is knowledgeable & skilled in reducing clutter and reorganising worthwhile possessions and other 'things' to better suit the user. The Organiser may have additional specialities.
4. Are you an Organiser, a coach, a consultant, or a tutor??
A writer!
I used to be all 5, and still embrace them all in my info products and new service modes. I turn the skills of each to whatever we're working on, or whatever I'm writing for your use. I really like to help clients and customers gain the confidence and skills needed for you to take action against whatever clutter hampers personal progress.
5. What is a 'wicked problem'?
I recently found an adequate external explanation for what drove me to design these services the way I did. It's embraced in the concept of wicked problems. This is a term for a particular concern in public policy, as I found here: https://www.apsc.gov.au/tackling-wicked-problems-public-policy-perspective . It says, "The term ‘wicked’ in this context is used, not in the sense of evil, but as a crossword puzzle addict or mathematician would use it—an issue highly resistant to resolution."
The page I obtained this quote from is one of the most readable government documents I've ever come across. It was all the more gripping because it just as easily describes the diabolical sort of problem an individual sometimes faces, where none of your best-aimed efforts seem to work -- year in, year out. The document clearly lays out why that is: such problems need more helpers.
If you can't get the right helpers -- or even while you work with them, using the Inspector Ross approach calms down many elements that have contributed to a wicked problem, without absorbing all your attention, emotion and resources in 'trying to fix it'.
More FAQs & FMCs (Frequently Made Comments) form part of a special booklet I wrote for you. It's completely free! Simply email me via the Contact Form for your no-hassle copy. Write 'FAQ booklet' in the subject line.
Or download from here.
TIP: If you use the Contact Form method, why not take the opportunity to get a bonus question answered? Ask any single question inspired by your browse of this site, and I'll answer that as best I can.
Navigation notes:
- Pages are arranged to tell the Inspector Ross story in sequence, so you can just click on one page after another in the menu, or use the navigation buttons at the end of each page.
- For desktop view especially: Where there are drop-down/slide menus, the main menu heading is usually also a page on its own, so you can click on that directly. E.g., Publications amounts to 4 pages, not only the 3 drop-downs.
- You can return to Home from any page by clicking HOME in the menu.
- To check if a link is to an external site, hover over it and view the address that appears (usually at the bottom left of the screen).
These links merely suggest information that appears reliable. Think for yourself when following anyone’s advice.
- You can right-click a link and copy the address to paste it into a browser address bar, as a safer alternative to direct clicking.
This is also useful if a link no longer works – you can trace back through the pasted address to a home page, and re-navigate from there. - For downloads, right-click to Save As your desired filename and location. That way you can security-scan the download before opening.