Barbara Hemphill, author of Taming the Paper Tiger, coined the phrase “Clutter is Postponed Decisions.” That is so true! We leave things for later that we don't want to decide on today. Then, we do that over and over again and piles accumulate or drawers fill up…
Today, I'll talk about a few ways that you can combat that procrastination and get rid of your clutter once and for all!
Ask Yourself Questions
When you are going through your things, it is easy to get distracted from your task. To make things easier on yourself, post the following questions where you can see them and when you get stuck, reference the list.
How long has it been since I used it? If you are holding onto things that you have not used in 10 years, it might be time to let it go. I realized this personally when I was going through my closet last month. A gown that I had not worn in 11 or 12 years was still in there. I had to get realistic with myself. Now it has gone to a new home.
Do I like it? So often we keep things just out of habit. The next time you look at your belongings, ask yourself if you actually LIKE them! If you answer “sort of” or “no” then it might be time to let them go.
Does it work or is it broken? Do you have that microwave from college in your basement? What about your first and second computers? If you have answered “yes” to these questions, then it is time for you to evaluate how you are using your space! Decide a location for those items and get them out of your space!
How many of these do I need? Do you really need 5 3-hole punchers or 6 empty binders? Be realistic about what you really need and find new homes for everything else. By getting rid of your multiples you will make room in your life for new experiences.
Can I locate this information somewhere else if I need it? I used to keep a lot of paper until I learned how to use internet searches. Now, before I keep a piece of paper I make sure that I will not be able to find it somewhere online. Or, maybe you were copied on some reports that are stored in a central filing system. Unless it is information you need on a regular basis, consider not keeping it. You can always retrieve it from central filing later.
Share your findings
What do you do that works? What worked? Tell me about where you found you spend your time that you shouldn't. Share your experiences here! I'm sure that my other readers would appreciate your insight and perspective!
To your success!
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