Why Get Organized?
Clutter is an obstacle to an energetic high-quality life.
It can, and does, cause problems in people’s lives and relationships.
Advantages to Less Stuff
- Less stuff is easier to clean
- Space with airflow means a reduced risk of mold and mildew (and musty odors)
- Less clutter lowers the risk of fire and it would be easier to put out a fire if one started
- Square footage for “stuff” comes with a price (larger home, storage units, etc.)
- Downsize to have more money for travel, bucket list items, and social experiences!
One Man’s Junk is Another Man’s Treasure
Sometimes the clutter or stuff wasn’t even originally yours! It may have been left behind by adult children who moved out or to a parent who passed.
Decide what’s truly valuable to YOU. Here is a helpful list to recognize what needs to GO:
- Clothing that is never worn
- Any items not enjoyed or used regularly
- Things gathering dust
- Items that are disorganized (e.g., garage or kitchen tools, craft supplies)
- Too many things in a small space
- Unfinished projects (e.g., arts and craft, old photos, mending or ironing)
- Nagging tasks that need to be completed
What Excuses Keep YOU From Eliminating Stuff?
- Just in case I need it later
- Because I’m going to “do something with it”
- It reminds me of who I am or who I was
- It reminds me of my past life and experiences
- I worked so hard to buy it at one time
Excuse Busters: Get Organized for a Better Life Today
- Trust that similar or better items will show up if they’re needed later
- Take a picture and keep smaller mementos that can be displayed or contained compactly
- Remember that eliminating something a dear friend gave you doesn’t eliminate the friend or the mutual love you’ve shared
- Think of the decluttering process as a kindness to the person who would have to do this if you were incapacitated or gone
- Mentally connect your decluttering to feeling strong and independent
Preparing for retirement? Here’s an article with 7 practical tips for downsizing and decluttering in retirement.
Please share your thoughts in the comment box below…
Do YOU have some decluttering to do?
Have you started to declutter for a life of freedom? Any tips?
Are you wondering if you or your loved one is a hoarder? This interview about hoarding can give you further information.
It is hard to downsize or sell your home and get rid of a lot of your things but once you do it you say why didn’t I do this sooner as it takes a lot of stress off of you as you age plus it makes so much easier for your children. Good blog .
You’re right! Why didn’t I do it sooner! It feels so good to clear the clutter!
I need to declutter so bad. I need a sister here to help me by saying. “that is so ugly. Get of it” or “you just have to dust that every week and it does nothing for your room” When are you ever going to use that?” “That sweater looks terrible on you. It is way too small” etc etc
I love this comment, Helen! Sisters are good for being honest, aren’t they!