I came across this gem about clutter the other, and wanted to share.
Clutter can be a fiend, even in the digital age. Some things tend to become part of the landscape in our lives, and while you may have gotten rid of physical clutter, you may have accumulated digital clutter. That is much easier to control than physical clutter.
Here are some things that have helped me keep my clutter under better control, in my personal space, and in my office space:
Could You Travel at an Hour or two’s Notice?
Clothing that I consider staples for travelling are always neatly rolled up in their own drawers, and in a specific closet. I don’t have to take any time to think about what items will look good on me, or will complement each other. The less time you spend thinking, the quicker you will pack.
Can this be Replaced, or Do you Already have a Similar Keepsake?
As a sentimental clutterer, I can find almost always find a reason to keep something. When there are too many of the same type things, the individuality of each piece is lost.
Who Would Fight over this if you Died?
There’s nothing wrong with owning things that bring you pleasure, even if no one else would care about it. But if you are holding onto things that you plan to give away, give them away now, or throw them away.
Give yourself a deadline to do it within THREE DAYS OR LESS. You have to create a sense of urgency.
Where Else Could you Get this, if it Were Lost?
Sometimes we hold on to things, even if they’re damaged. That’s why I ask if it were lost, instead of if you needed to replace it.
Chances are you don’t feel the need to replace it, because that damaged item is probably held together with crazy glue.
Would you Bring this Clutter into a New Home?
This is really powerful for me…If you imagine having to move to a new home, or even redecorating a room, you want a sense of newness.
If something feels out of place, perhaps you can find it a new home, or say goodbye altogether.
Read more here.