“If you want to grow, you gotta let it go.” This is the mantra of Gail Blanke, author of Throw out Fifty Things (affiliate link). And, a mantra that I highly recommend. Our lives are filled with so much stuff, and as I’ve learned over the course of my life much of it isn’t needed. So, why not let it go?
At least some of it. Clear the clutter, clear you mind, and make room for success…there’s no time like the present to start decluttering.
In my line of work, I’m always called upon to find space for client’s possessions. I’ll admit, sometimes working with a professional organizer or using a space saving storage solution isn’t enough. Sometimes the answer is to purge. Discard or donate… just let the items go.
Let It Go – the title of Disney’s latest chart-topping hit from the record-setting blockbuster, Frozen. Perhaps making this your decluttering theme song will energize you and allow you to consider additional possibilities concerning what to keep and what to let go.
If you’re ready to get in the spring clearing mode, start decluttering today! If you’re not sure how to get started, check out the tips below.
Five Ways to Start Decluttering to Clear Your Mind and Space
1. Chose a simple task that will only take a few minutes and tackle it. Have you ever tried to see how much you can accomplish in just five short minutes? Make it easy and start small.
Example:
A simple task that will help you started is to remove everything from one small kitchen drawer. Quickly sort/group the items by type, discard those items that are no longer needed (like old take out menus), and assign a location in the drawer for those items that you will keep. As you gain momentum, expand the amount of time to 15-30 minutes.
2. To make the sorting process easier especially for larger projects, set up three boxes/bins and tag them:
- KEEP
- GIVE AWAY/DONATE
- DISCARD
As you work your way through your home (strategically, just work on one corner of a room or piece of furniture at a time), place items in one of these three receptacles.
3. Select and use the right storage techniques and containers for your unique needs. But, before you run out to the store and buy anything new, here are some tips to ensure you’re selecting the best options for yourself and the way you live and work.
4. If paper clutter tends to be a challenge for you, remember these key paper filing tips when you start decluttering:
- Scan and digitally file all you can
- Set up password protected files on your computer to ensure your information is secure
- Keep up with filing – collect papers that you believe should be kept in a to-file folder
- Spend 15 minutes or more a week filing and shredding
5. Be sure to maintain your space once you’re finished decluttering. Consider placing a shopping bag or a super sized Ziploc bag (affiliate link) in your clothing closet so that you can easily fill it with items that just don’t look right, fit, or flatter you anymore. As the bag fills up, make plans to drop it off at your favorite charity.
Remember, decluttering helps to create space in your home and donating those unwanted sweaters or glasses puts them to good use.
I hope after reading this, you’re ready to start letting go and seriously tackle that one really overstuffed drawer or closet. It is amazing how motivated you will become once you step back and admire your newly decluttered and organized space.
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