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Stressed and frustrated by the clutter and chaos in her own life, Tera determined to take an honest look at what disorganization was costing her and her family in terms of time, money, and peace of mind.

As a small business owner and single mom, she soon came to the realization that organization was not optional, but rather was crucial to her success in life.

Tera conducted a comprehensive, in-depth study of organizing principles and products, spending weeks and months poring over organizing books, magazine articles, catalogs and web sites. She also systematically went through every area of her home (and her life!),simplifying and organizing each area with flair and creativity.

Although the transformation did not occur overnight, Tera achieved success because she made an ongoing commitment to getting (and staying) organized.

Ultimately, that commitment led to her current career!

Straighten Up!, Tera’s Austin, Texas - based organizing and consulting business was founded in 1998.

Tera’s work as an organizer, her 25 years experience as a small business owner,
and her background helping people in transition have allowed her to create a unique, whole-life approach to her work as an organizing consultant and lifestyle coach.

Starting with the basics, Tera helps her clients identify their own core values and discover ways to simplify, prioritize and reduce the stress in their lives. She then guides her clients as they develop their own life plan with clear, attainable goals.

Because she understands the many pressures people face in their daily lives -
and  the stress caused by disorganization - Tera’s approach is always gentle, supportive and non-judgmental. Her clients find her very easy and fun to work with,
as her friendly, easy-going manner quickly puts people at ease.

 Professional Designations & Training:

Tera is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (N.A.P.O.).

She has served on N.A.P.O.’s Education & Professional Development Committee from its’ inception in 2001.
 
Committed to ongoing education in her field(s), Tera is also an active member of the National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (N.S.G.C.D.).

Locally, she serves as Vice-President of the Central Texas Organizers, an informal group of local organizing professionals dedicated to the advancement of the industry.

Tera is a graduate of Coach University. She also trained at  Austin Community College, Sheffield Institue and Center Stage Home.

Tera’s home office organizing tips are featured in Kristie Tamesvicius’ popular book
I Love My Life! A Mom’s Guide to Working from Home.

Tera offers tips on organizing for creative types in Lee Silber’s Organizing from the Right Side of the Brain -  A Creative Approach to Getting Organized.

A Personal Note ~

Tera’s interests include songwriting, holistic health & fitness, interior design, technology and sustainabiltiy. She frequently attends seminars, workshops and teleconferences on a wide variety of interests, both personal .and professional.

Tera lives in Central Texas with her daughter, Cheyenne, their calico cat, Raja’ and their Golden Retriever, Lucky. Cheyenne is a member of the Austin Angelfish, a competitive synchronized swimming team. Cheyenne’s dream is to someday swim synchro in the Olympics. Tera’s son Woody, 27, is an accomplished songwriter, musician and artist.
 
Tera and her family enjoy swimming, camping and music.

They often can be found around the campfires at the Kerrville Folk Festival, located in the beautiful Hill Country of Central Texas.
 

Tera and “the girls” on the footbridge at Luckenbach, Texas