Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in stuff? Like your house is just too full of things, and you can’t seem to get rid of anything? If so, you’re not alone. Clutter is a common problem, and it can be stressful and overwhelming.
But it doesn’t have to be this way. You can break free from the clutter trap and start living a simpler, more organized life. Here are a few tips:
Stop buying things you don’t need
This is a very important step. If you don’t buy it in the first place, you’ll never have to declutter it. So before you buy anything, ask yourself if you really need it. Will you use it? Will it bring you joy? If the answer is no, don’t buy it. I also like to think about where it is going to live in my space.
This one is one I am still working on myself. But since I have started buying with intention I have noticed three benefits that I can think of right now (I know that there are more, but three is a good number.) 1 – Less stress when I am shopping. No underlying anxiety of making impulsive decisions based on momentary fulfillment. 2 – More gratitude for what I have. 3 – I am able to spend a little bit more and buy better quality things.
-Thoughts from Wendy
Get rid of things you don’t use
Once you’ve stopped buying new stuff, it’s time to get rid of the stuff you already have. This can be a daunting task, but it’s important to remember that you don’t have to keep everything. If you haven’t used something in a year, you probably don’t need it. So get rid of it! Donate it, sell it, or recycle it.
One this I find myself encouraging almost every client is …You do not have to keep it just because it is a gift. A gift should not be given out of obligation or with guilt tied to it. It is ok to enjoy the gift for a time (or just the thoughtfulness of the gift lovingly given) and then pass it on so someone else can enjoy it.
-Thoughts from Wendy
Declutter one room at a time
Don’t try to declutter your entire house all at once. It’s too overwhelming. Set a deadline for yourself and then start with one room, and work your way through the rest of your house systematically. I recommend starting small and in a space that you can have quick success. This will help you keep going.
I often encourage setting a daily time goal of 15-30 minutes. You will be amazed with how much gets done. Often the chore turns into a joy and what first seemed like work becomes a freeing experience of letting go.
-Thoughts from Wendy
Don’t be sentimental
It’s hard to get rid of things that have sentimental value, but it’s important to remember that you can always take pictures of them. Remember the memories are with you not the objects you are holding onto. You don’t need to keep the actual object. I know, this is easier said then done, but you got this.
Here are five ways to deal with those pesky sentimental items that are hard to part with. 1 – Pick you favorites and get rid of the rest. 2 – Consolidate – If cards were a thing and you aren’t ready to get rid of them. Group them altogether and put them in a nice box that fits in your space. 3 – Make it useful – Use an old toy for a book end, a pitcher as a vase, a dresser as a vanity…get creative!!! 4 – Share it – Well that one is pretty straight forward. 5 – Keep the memories not the things – take a picture and write a short story for why it means so much. You could even create a framed memory space using the picture and the note.
-Thoughts from Wendy
Ask for help
If you’re struggling to declutter on your own, don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family, or a professional organizer (hint- hint).
I understand that asking someone into your clutter can be a bit intimidating. Think of it like a personal trainer. If you were wanting to get in better shape you may hire a personal trainer. So hiring a professional organizer is hiring someone to get your space in shape. We can be cheerleaders, stay on task wranglers, or a person to push you throught the messy middle.
– Thoughts from Wendy
Decluttering can be a challenge, but it’s worth it. When you declutter, you free up space in your home, both physically and mentally. You also save time and money, and you reduce stress and anxiety. So what are you waiting for? Start decluttering today!
Remember the last reminder? You can ask for help and that is what I do. Send me a message to set up a no-obligation consultation. I would love to work with you.