OCTOBER 2023 BLOG
Photo by Rabie Madaci on Unsplash
Why is it that organizing your home and belongings seems like a gargantuan task that is totally overwhelming and exhausting? The mere thought of hauling stuff out of closets and cupboards and going through it all has us dreading the tough decisions and dragging it all to various places. It is so easy to see ourselves losing momentum and feeling defeated, ending up more overwhelmed and feeling that things are beyond our control.
This is a pretty standard scenario and unfortunately it is often coupled with stressful events that we actually cannot control such as; moving, new baby, starting school, empty nest, retirement, illness, job challenges and changes in the family structure.
The good news is that we are in control of our homes and belongings, but we often don’t feel like we are in control unless we have a decent plan. It’s like baking a cake without a recipe or building a house without blueprints. Life’s pretty busy these days for most people and if they do get an opportunity to declutter – they don’t want to sit and make a detailed plan, they want to get relief FAST – so they dive in!
We suggest instead of adding more stress with the deep dive, try it our way. We have observed that by; using a plan, breaking things down and creating a simple pleasant routine can make it much easier to control our declutter. You don’t have to rely on feeling all inspired and having a big chunk of time off to do a big purge! Our many years of field work have given us lots of insight into calmer and easier organizing.
Are you interested in how to do this?
Try our “REASONABLE” FALL CHECKLIST!
We have done the planning part for you! By using this method you are more likely to get your decluttering done well and feel good about coming back to it regularly.
- You only need to set aside about 2-3 hours a week.
- Doing 1 category at a time is important to keep it manageable and positive.
- Finish one category before starting the next and do any removals that day if possible.
- Work with a buddy and treat yourself to nice music and snacks if that helps you.
It might even be enjoyable for you and we know how satisfying the results will be! It is all about keeping it simple and consistent.
“Reasonable” FALL CHECKLIST
Go through items in your home over the coming weeks using the following categories;
- CLOTHING
- LINENS
- ENTERTAINING ITEMS
- HOME DECOR
- OUTDOOR ITEMS
- GARAGE
- SHED
Find these items and make a few piles;
- KEEP – WARM WEATHER ITEMS THAT YOU LOVE AND WILL USE AGAIN
- KEEP + CLEAN, REPAIR – WARM WEATHER ITEMS THAT YOU LOVE THAT NEED TLC
- DONATE/SELL/GIVEAWAY BOX- WARM WEATHER ITEMS NOT USED THIS SEASON OR YOU NO LONGER LIKE
- RECYCLE/GARBAGE – WARM WEATHER ITEMS BROKEN OR WORN
Looking at everything you love and wish to keep, ask yourself these questions;
- IS EVERYTHING STORED WELL? ARE CLOSETS/CUPBOARDS WORKING?
Now is the perfect time to shape up the items that you own and by getting into the habit of paring down regularly in short sessions and building upon your success. Your home will feel lighter, brighter and more organized in no time.
We hope this checklist will get you started and keep you motivated.
Feel free to call us to book a short session, we can always pop in for a morning or afternoon if you need a helping hand!
Watch for the “Reasonable SPRING CHECKLIST next year!
