Yes! There is a difference between cleaning and organizing, and, though de-cluttering is usually part of the organizing process, it is just one element of getting organized. The dictionary tells us that Cleaning is defined as: making something free of dirt, marks or mess, especially by wiping, washing, or brushing. De Cluttering is: removing unnecessary items (from an untidy or overcrowded place) and Organizing is: the act or process of planning and arranging the different parts of an event or activity.
Organizing is decision making. It is an ongoing process that involves creating systems at home and at work that allow our days to flow smoothly and get things done. The three processes of cleaning, de-cluttering, and organizing are related and overlap, but the key is not to confuse a clean space with an organized space. All three should happen regularly, as our lives keep moving and stuff creeps into our spaces and our routines. But to be truly organized you need to focus on the systems and solutions that help things to flow – a process for dealing with incoming and outgoing paper; a designated place to leave your daily necessities like your wallet, phone, and keys; a system for grocery shopping like checking your pantry before buying more items; a system for rotating seasonal items from your closet and mudroom….these are the steps to being organized.