As a professional organizer, what I see are a lot of people with just too much stuff. It may come in the form of unpacked boxes from their move three years ago, it may come in the form of gifts they feel too guilty to let go or it may come in the form of too much paper. There are many ways that clutter accumulates, but it all boils down to the same end result-it causes stress.
Our belongings should be useful and a source of enjoyment on a daily basis. If your stuff has crossed the line into stress inducing piles, then you need to step back and say, “Ok, who’s the boss?” If the tables are covered, if the couch is piled high, if you have to open the closets with caution, then I’d say your stuff is ruling the roost and it’s time to take back the reins.
I love the transformation that takes place when I work with clients and they go from feeling stressed and overwhelmed to feeling lighter as they start letting excess belongings go.
Decluttering is not about getting rid of everything, so here are some things you should consider parting with:
• Broken items, either get them fixed now or throw them out
• Duplicate items, keep the ones in the best condition and part with the extras
• Items you don’t use anymore, it’s time to let someone else have a turn
• Belongings that trigger negative emotions, just let those go
• Things you don’t even like, someone else will
Kick clutter to the curb and enjoy less stress in an organized home!
