Chicago Home and Lifestyles – Thoughts on de-cluttering

We all want to de-clutter and downsize. We are tired of looking at things that don’t bring purpose into our lives. But, sometimes emotional reasons keep us from taking any real action. Studies have found that those who hang onto a lot of household objects have more of the stress hormone cortisol. Here are some suggestions from professional organizers to finally deal with all that “stuff”:

Rethink your relationship to your stuff. Instead of thinking about how much you love something, think about how well it serves your life. Don’t give away precious physical or mental real estate to things you don’t use. Yes, you may love that sweater, but have you worn it in the last year? Trash, recycle or donate!

Try “clear 10” — then do it again. Take half an hour to gather up 10 items you haven’t used in a long time. Don’t think, just toss! Categories don’t matter, volume does. Yesterday I threw out 5 beauty products I haven’t used in ages. Then 5 utensils out of the junk drawer. It can be tough but I’m sure we all could find 10 things to toss that we don’t need. Even the best professional organizers can have a hard time. 

Practice the “one comes in, one comes out” method. This is especially important for folks who live in a small space. When you bring something in it has to have a space to live. This will help you when you find yourself impulse buying. If you have to think first, “what am I going to get rid of to bring this in?” –  it will curb some of those mindless purchases. Try not to order online. It’s way too easy to buy without thinking. 

Schedule your organizing time. Consider these as important as any work appointment. Pick out a few hours to file paperwork and pay bills, taking care of business. Another day can be your home day. 2 hours to tackle a closet or pantry. Set a time limit. The task seems less daunting if you know you’ll be done in a few hours. You’ll be surprised how the time flies. Not done? Stop and finish at the next home appointment or keep going to finish, your choice. 

Staying organized doesn’t mean being perfect. It’s about finding systems and ways that work for you. It can get emotional, but the effort is worth it. Make your living space work for you, not the other way around.

Kathleen Weaver-Zech and Dean’s Team Chicago