Clutter No More

Here are five ways to rid yourself of clutter. And, help keep clutter from gaining a foothold again in your home. You don't have to do all five these at the same time. Each one is designed to address a specific type of situation. You use them when you need.

1) Don't keep things you don't like. This may sound obvious, but it's amazing how many people have things in their homes that they're really not fond of. It could be a pair of pants that you never wear because you don't like the style or how they fit, but you're keeping them because they were an expensive purchase. It may be an old, ugly piece of furniture catching dust in your basement that you're only keeping because it belonged to a loved one. Or, a lamp or knickknack a friend gave you. The bottom line is, if you don't like it, it should not have a place in your home. Donate it to someone who will enjoy it.

2) If you're keeping it for someone else . . . remember, your home is not mini-storage facility. If you're holding on to things for your kids whom are now married with kids or living outside your home, give those items to them so they can decide whether to keep or toss them. If you and your next door neighbor recently had a yard sale together at your home, and your neighbor's goods that did not sell are still at your home, have her come pick them up tomorrow. Or, offer to have a charity pick them up if she no longer wants them. Your storage should be reserved for you and the family members currently living in your home.

3) Reduce by a specific number. When getting rid of clutter in a specific area, have a specific goal in mind. Saying you want to get rid of SOME clutter is too vague. But saying you want to get rid of 15 items, or 50% of the clutter, is very specific. Focus on reaching your specific goals.

4) When you buy something new, get rid of something old. Better yet, get rid of two things. If you just keeping adding stuff without getting rid of anything your home will be overflowing with clutter, again. Avoid this by simply following the one in, two out rule.

5) Never say never. If you constantly feel like you're drowning in clutter and you don't believe you'll ever be able to surface, the chances of you getting rid of your clutter are slim to none. Never say you'll never get rid of the clutter. Always have a positive, can-do attitude and believe in yourself. Self-fulfilling prophecies are not just a cliche'.

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