It's a new year, time to get organized and learn some strategies for getting rid of things you don't want or need. Clearing clutter from your home or office doesn't have to be a chore. It does, however, require some energy. This can be accomplished by simply approaching the task when you feel most energetic. Determine whether you have more energy to get going in the morning or if your energy level is higher at night. Rather than getting overwhelmed, focus on one area at a time. Here are some quick and easy solutions for making 2010 clutter free.
Causes of Clutter in Your Life
Clutter occurs for a number of reasons. You may be mentally exhausted because of a hectic schedule; overcommit yourself to volunteer for activities or organizations and don't have time to get organized; are a compulsive shopper because buying things makes you feel better; procrastinate so you don't have to deal with it; hold onto sentimental items from the past because you don't want to lose memories. This can cause you to feel so burdened that there is no energy for curing clutter. Still another cause of clutter in your life is physical illness or injury. However, this problem can easily be resolved by asking a friend or family member for help.
How to Begin
Take it easy. Focusing will help you approach your clean-up effort with more energy. A simple form of treatment is deep breathing. This is a natural way to help you think clearly, release negativity and approach tasks with a much better attitude. Of course, taking deep breaths also has numerous health benefits. It slows the heart rate, lowers blood pressure and reduces stress, instantly calming you down. Choose a quiet place to sit comfortably. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Keep breathing slowly and feel yourself fill with peace and joy.
Cleaning Out
Go through your house and gather up things that can be tossed or sold for some extra cash. Things like fitness equipment and sporting items to furniture, appliances and clothes can find a home somewhere else. Try eBay or get started on free classified sites like cragslist (see Resources). Always include clear photos and well-written, detailed descriptions of what you are selling.
Donate to Charity
Donate unwanted items to your local Goodwill, Salvation Army, or AmVets Thrift stores. There are many less fortunate people who need and want things that you have accumulated and can put them to good use. Keep in mind that donating to charity also saves you money on your taxes.
Make a Fresh Start
Pretend you are considering selling your home and want to make it more presentable. Decide what to get rid of and what you want to keep. Start small. Sort through junk drawers, then go through the items that clutter up your closets, the basement, garage and the attic, another area that attracts clutter. It's a good idea to prevent clutter from returning. If you plan on buying anything new, first give yourself some time in your new surroundings. Think about how wonderful you feel in your clutter-free environment. If it's at all possible, limit the amount of new stuff you bring into your home. You just need some determination and will power. Remember, this will help you take better control of your life.
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