At home and work, do you function well if you have too much ‘stuff’ around you?
I don’t but I thought I did!
I have an innate ability to be able to function in a messy area but as I found out later in life, it strongly affects my peace of mind and productivity.
For anyone who tends to keep too much ‘stuff’, there is usually categories that cause us the most angst and are the biggest troublemakers.
When I realised I was holding onto more than I could manage, art projects and keepsakes were my biggest issues.
Can you relate?
Crafts, hobbies and memorabilia is a struggle for many of us!
Art was a huge part of my life when I was younger and I held onto this for many years by trying new craft projects and different classes before finally accepting I wasn’t enjoying it anymore.
My keepsakes were stored in 4 large containers, this pulled at my heartstrings but as I went through the process I could see there were only a few key items I loved and wanted.
Become clear on what brings you joy for this season of life
Through this process, my motto became ‘if you hold onto too much, do you have space for new exciting things to come into your life?’ Those exciting things are hardly ever material items and appear more readily when life is uncluttered – bonus!
Letting go get’s easier
A big lesson I learnt was not to start with the hard stuff. To look at areas where things had accumulated just because of life events rather than because I found it challenging. Everyday clothes that no longer fit; stuff that had lost it’s mate, like kitchen containers without a lid or base; out of date products or make-up no longer used.
Working up to the harder categories!
As I let go of things that were no longer serving me, I also started to connect to what made life easier. I like things to be simple. To me, this means putting my hand on whatever I need with ease; knowing I can tidy up quickly and properly; having uncluttered surfaces and being ‘visitor ready’.
What makes life easier for you?
Once I had decluttered, the organising process became so much easier but in order for my home to remain that way, I had to learn how to not let more come into my space.
Ask yourself:
Do I really need this, does it have a purpose for me right now, do I already have something similar and politely saying ‘no thank you’ when offered something that doesn’t meet this criteria.
I have spent many years enjoying the benefits of being organised and sharing the steps with clients.
Over to you…what challenges do you have and where are you in your journey?
Don’t delay, start today
Sara