Letting go of stuff is tough but for some people the hardest part is starting a declutter project. I understand why we get attached to our things especially heirloom gifts that have been passed down in the family and the memories associated with them but the reality is if it is not actively being used then what’s the point of keeping it?! That’s my tough love question to a lot of my clients because clutter in whatever form including that growing collection of vintage items can suck the life out of people ~ the struggle to manage life’s things and stuff is real so if you’ve hit that wall and know that something needs to change ~ Woo Hoo!
Here’s a nudge from yours truly;
DO
- Grab a notepad and a pen.
- List rooms or areas that need attention and prioritize them.
- Plan a timeline – how much time do you have in a given day or week when you can solely focus on a room/project.
- Ask family members or friends to help you.
- Determine what resources you might need ie. boxes & labels, cleaning materials & tools; equipment rentals, transportation, etc.
- Plan to work safely and the resources you might need to achieve that.
- Mark boxes; KEEP, DONATE/SELL, TOSS/TRASH. Please consider the time that you actually have to sell your stuff vs. donating it.
- Keep “memory lane” moments in check. Set these things aside to review when you have more time.
- Consider things that could be repurposed in the household or garden.
- Set meal plan(s) ahead of your scheduled project days so dinner is a no brainer.
- Set a goal or series of phases to complete your project(s).
- Set a budget if you need one.
- Use a timer to set start, break, and finish times throughout your day!
- Have fun – put some music on, open the windows for some fresh air if you can.
DON’T
- Tackle everything all at once, that is not a realistic or efficient start to any declutter project.
- Pack too much into a given day that finds you feeling rushed to sort through EVERY THING!
- Overthink the sorting process. Toss that thing in a “MAYBE” box until you can come back to it later. Keep the momentum going!
- Be quick to buy new and replace things you are tossing or donating. Soak up the new space or storage that you have just created for a while.
- Keep going if you’re suddenly feeling overwhelmed ~ take a break or go for a walk to clear your head. This is a work in progress, not a marathon.
- Rule out additional help and resources.
My vision is to see people thrive in their home, connect as a family, entertain friends, gather to eat in one place, and see their home as a refuge. Summer is just a few days away and a great time to make a fresh start. I can be an efficient resource to brainstorm ideas during a 30 minute consultation ~ feel free to email me at niki@tickoffthelist.ca and be sure to visit my FAQ to learn more about Tick off the List Home Services.