Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Resolving Clutter No More? Clutter Busters

Lots of us resolved to do a better job with the homestead. Specifically, the clutter that eventually takes over our lives, and the helpless feelings that ensue. It doesn’t help that holiday decorations are still lingering. So, here’s a high-heeled swift kick in the beautifully-draped-pants to get you in gear.

Planning to Attack
~ Determine which room / area / facet drives you the craziest and start there
~ Create a list of the areas and rank the priorities
~ Set a deadline for accomplishing the project
~ Break your project into baby steps – drawers, cabinet, shelf, etc.
~ Start at the door of the room and work your way around the room.
~ Finish one area before starting another

Interrogation – What to ask to determine keeping versus tossing:
~ When was the last time you used it?
~ When will you need it again?
~ Is it easily replaceable?
~ What’s the worst thing that would happen if you got rid of it?
~ Is it beautiful, useful, or loved?

Getting Rid of Excuses
~ “It was expensive and I don’t want it to go to waste” – Gong! If you don’t use it, it IS being wasted. Change your mindset.
~ “I might need it someday.” - Doubtful. If you haven’t used it in a year, when do you suppose that magic moment will come?
~ “It was a gift” – Ah! You’re sentimental. Move on! Once you graciously received a gift and thanked the generous soul, it is yours to do with as you see fit. I say, trash it, baby!
~ “I’m saving it for my kids”. Wow. Really sentimental. Maybe they’ll grow up to be just like you – a pack rat.
~ “It’s too nice to throw away.” - Give it the old heave-ho, Babycakes. Pass it along to a friend or neighbor who may find it to be just the thing.

Wow! After all this, I'm inspired to go work on a closet. More later, Poodle!
XOXO

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