Reduce, reuse, recycle. Most of us are familiar with the three Rs that help minimize waste. But we can do so much more to help us protect the environment. In honor of Earth month, I’ve expanded the list to 10 Rs that can make a big difference in the spaces that we live in and benefit our precious planet.
Read moreSubterranean Clutter: Out Of Sight Doesn’t Always Mean Out of Mind
Have you ever found yourself wondering why the stuff in the forgotten corners of the house still seem to nag at you? You know, those attics, basements, garages, and storage units where we stashed away items to clear our living spaces. It's curious, isn't it? We thought out of sight would mean out of mind, but somehow, the clutter lingers in our thoughts.
Many of us label these collections as clutter because they're not exactly adding sparkle to our lives anymore. They're just... there. Kept for "just in case" moments, maybe to preserve a memory or to hedge against some imagined future need.
It's like a vault of subconscious thoughts. To put it another way, it's a bit like procrastinating on dealing with emotional baggage. And, the length of time that it has been stored away can tell you how long you have been putting off not dealing with what is symbolically buried in the stuff.
So, how do you finally clear your minds from this clutter? Well, you can start by sifting through and rescuing the items that still bring you joy. Then you can ponder on the rest with fresh eyes and a new perspective and ask yourself the following questions:
What are you saving it for?
What is your attachment to it?
Is it bringing up memories, scarcity issues, fear, guilt, shame? What do you need to do to work through those attachments?
Have you used it in the past year?
Do you have a plan to use it in the next year?
If you don’t do anything with it now, will it still be here in the same place 10-plus years from now.
Could the conditions in the space such as pests, mold, or mildew be wreaking havoc on your possessions? Is it already too late for some of them?
I understand tackling these spaces can be daunting. But remember, you're not alone in this journey. If you need a hand, know that I'm here, ready to assist you every step of the way.
Transform Your Space: Mastering Decluttering With Kindness And Compassion
When embarking on the journey of decluttering, it's crucial to treat yourself with kindness and compassion. Negative self-talk can often become a familiar soundtrack playing on repeat in our minds. But, I need you to stop that type of talk. Criticism is ineffective. It has never helped anyone get anything done in a productive and positive way.
Read moreDecluttering: The Power of Letting Go
Decluttering is not just a physical transformation; it's a journey of self-discovery and growth. It's about shedding the weight of the past to make room for the possibilities of the future. As you embark on the path of decluttering, remember that it's okay to let go – not just of possessions, but of the emotions and attachments that bind you to them.
Read moreStart Fresh This New Year: Post-Holiday Declutter & Organization
Hello, festive friends! I hope your holiday season was filled with joy, laughter, and fun. Now that the wrapping paper has settled, the last cookie crumbs have been swept away, and the echoes of holiday tunes are fading, it's time to tackle the post-holiday cleanup. Whether you relish in the process or find it a bit daunting, we’ve got a friendly guide to help you navigate through the aftermath of the festivities.
Read moreBefore You Start Your Holiday Shopping: Read This
Do you have a section in your home dedicated to forgotten gifts – a graveyard of good intentions? Please know that you are not alone. It's a common scenario in almost every home I work in. However, when I see the gift section, the things in it have already gathered dust. They are already out of style or out of date and I take them to their new home — the donation center.
Read moreTips for a Smooth Fall and Winter Wardrobe Transition
As the leaves change and the air becomes crisper, it's time to prepare for the cozy embrace of fall and the frosty arrival of winter. Part of this seasonal shift involves transitioning your wardrobe to accommodate the colder months. To make this task simpler and more efficient, here are some tips to help you embrace the changing seasons with ease.
Read moreThe Truth About Containers: Are They Necessary For Organizing?
Most of the time when I tell someone that I am a professional organizer, someone invariably responds with, "Oh, you must love the Container Store!" Well, let me set the record straight: I don't have anything against the Container Store, but it's not my go-to solution.
Read moreMastering the Back-to-School Morning Rush: 6 Tips for a Stress-Free Start
As the school bells ring and the autumn leaves start to fall, the hustle and bustle of the morning routine can make even the calmest parent break into a sweat. But fear not! With a touch of organization you can turn chaotic mornings into cheerful ones. I've got six tips to share that will help you and your kids sail through the early hours with ease.
Read moreOverwhelmed By Clutter? Apply This Simple Technique
The summer is a time for relaxation, fun, and a break from the daily routine. But let's face it, as enjoyable as the summer months can be, they often come with their fair share of chaos. With the constant transition of people and things in and out of our houses, it's no wonder that clutter can build up quickly, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and stressed. But fear not! I have a simple and effective technique that can bring order back to your home in no time. It's a method that a professional house cleaner would use and it's incredibly easy to implement.
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