I recently wrote this guest blog for www.organizeit.com. Thought I'd share it with you here as well.
Clutter is a sneaky, quiet invader of our homes. It slowly amasses in out-of-the-way spots, such as closets, basements, attics, garages, or spare rooms. After a while, it may also spill over into our living spaces. Do you ever look around your home, and ask yourself: "Where did all this clutter come from and how did it accumulate so much?" There are numerous reasons of course, although most clutter falls usually into one of the categories below.
First, there is "inherited clutter" - stuff that gets passed down to us from family and friends.
Next, there is "sentimental clutter" - anything special, that we've saved throughout the years. Memorabilia relating to our past, our children, or loved ones, that have passed away. These items are usually the most difficult to deal with.
Thirdly, we have "someday clutter" - these are generally items we've acquired with the best of intentions. For example, Exercise equipment we've purchased, but rarely, or never use. Fancy kitchen gadgets that sounded appealing, but were too cumbersome to use, or clean. Craft projects, games, and electronic devices. Even broken items, we meant to fix years ago. And of course, there are all of the items that we kept, because "we may need them someday".
We all have good intentions when we save or purchase items. Most often though, our lives get busy, priorities change, and things sit unused. Whenever we occasionally come across those items, they nag at us and even evoke guilt.
If any of this is striking a chord with you, take action. Decide to cut down on the clutter, slowly purging through each box, closet, or storage space. Ask yourself these questions: Do I really need it? Do I use it? Do I love it? Be realistic about what you are keeping. If you haven't gotten around to using it in the past year, or two, chances are, you won't be using it in the years to come. Just think of the space you will gain when you lose all the excess clutter. Room to breathe! What's more...starting from this day on, let's all be a little more selective as to what we are purchasing and saving.
Need accountability or hands-on assistance with any of your organizing projects? Call or email, I’m here to help, whether in person or virtually. Call 585-201-6009 or write to Yve@organizingbyYve.com.