Meet Dr. Malika Gonzales: Professional Organizer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Malika Gonzales and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Malika, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
For nearly 25 years, I knew that I loved to keep things tidy and organized. I’ve been an educator for nearly 18 years and I absolutely love what I do, but deep down, I’ve always had a passion for organizing. I would always have my classroom or office well organized with very colorful and creative items. Everyone knew that once they were in my space, I could easily find things because everything had a “zone”. I remember in 2005, one of my then co-workers told me that I had a gift for walking into places and organizing everything. My friends and family said that I could either make people love me or hate me with my passion for organizing. I chose to find those that LOVE what I do and need my services.  After years of contemplating; I decided to not let the pandemic of 2020 negatively impact me. I developed my own business of professionally organizing and named it; “Simply Organized By Dr. G”.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career is an Assistant Principal and for this reason, I am set apart from other professional organizers. Not only do I have a positive track record of supporting and helping people, but I understand how people like to be treated. I respect peoples’ points of view without imposing.  The art of active listening is vital to positive relationships whether in a school setting or as a professional organizer.

When I organize for clients, as soon as I see them smile, breathe a sigh of relief OR when they see floor spacing that they hadn’t seen in a while, I know that I’ve done well.  I was blessed to start my own business by taking a leap of faith during this pandemic. I barely get sleep because I am an Assistant Principal during the day and I see my clients during the evenings and weekends, but this is not difficult for me because I am very passionate about my craft.  I am continually learning and making my brand better. One thing I want others to know is that you have to believe in yourself and surround yourself with those that are positive.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I am from Atlanta and there is plenty to do, however I love good food. So if I had to create an itinerary, I’d start with a trip to the grocery store because one thing about me is that I love to cook! I’d cook an elaborate meal for my family and enjoy our time together.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to shout out my husband, two daughters, mom, dad, best friend, sister, aunt, and my friends. Honestly I have a true village. Without them, this journey would be difficult. My husband, Courtney and daughters, Milan and Malia, put up with my “sorting, organizing, purging, etc. daily.” They know me and understand how I like for our “systems” to work. My mom, Daphne and dad, Kevin, encourage me daily. My best friend, Janet, is always there anytime I need her. My sister, Keshia and aunt Pinky, are my God-sent organizers that support every organizing session that I embark upon. Detra, Cynthia, and Tangela; our conversations and time together is always filled with love, laughter, and encouragement. All of my good gal pals (too many to name)-THANK YOU all for pushing, encouraging, supporting and loving me! Now, let’s get SIMPLY ORGANIZED BY DR. G!

Website: www.simplyorganizedbydrg.com
Instagram: Simply_organized_by_dr.g
Facebook: Simply.Organized.By.Dr.G

Image Credits
Stephanie Garcia