“Less is more.” – Ludwig Miles van der Rohe
“Simplify, Simplify.” – Henry David Thoreau
These two quotes are both timeless and very timely because so many people are looking to change their lifestyle and take back control of their lives. We are realizing it’s okay to stop acquiring material possessions (since we all have budgets a bit tighter now) and we understand that “We are not our stuff.” – Peter Walsh
If you want to eliminate the feeling of being “overwhelmed,” begin by paring down and simplifying your surroundings so you can get back to meaningful activities and relationships. Here’s how to start:
First, ruthlessly sort through your “stuff” (which will take dedication, time and effort) eliminating broken, un-wearable (too big/small, ugly) or un-useable items. Let go of duplicates, unfinished craft or repair projects and objects being kept out of guilt or obligation. This will become easier as you progress. Recycle, sell, donate or toss those items.
Second, for your garage and/or storage unit, set up a schedule to fill one to three boxes from the garage/storage unit every week and sort them into “recycle,” “sell,” “donate” or “toss” categories. Stick to this schedule as if “your life depends on it,” because the simpler life you want really does depend on it! By eliminating that storage unit you’ll save thousands of dollars and feel hundreds of pounds lighter.
Finally, once you have accomplished the sorting and purging, it’s time to organize what’s left. This means putting the important things remaining in places that are easy to find, convenient to use/maintain and can be immediately put away. This will take planning and effort but will pay-off big time! Once in place, this new system will allow you to focus on living consciously and with a purpose.
If the process seems impossible, help is readily available… even if it is just to get started!
By reducing piles of clutter as well as letting go and spending less time and money on excess “stuff,” you will have less to deal with and more time to focus on what is of value in life. With each item sold and every trip to make your donations, you’ll feel like you’re liberating yourself from a lifestyle that has been weighing you down in more ways than just bulk.
Barbara Ricketts is a Certified Professional Organizer (CPO). If you need assistance to simplify and organize, contact her at MessDoctor@Mac.com or call 661-263-0124.