Clutter in the house drains energy. However cutting through this clutter is equally overwhelming and feels stressful.
Just remember that you did not accumulate things in a day so removing the clutter will also take time.
Clutter has memories attached and sometimes it is difficult to part with things associated with happy memories.
Another reason could be a scarcity mind-set. “What if I need this sometime?” is a nagging question. Well if you needed it would not have been hidden in the closet or in the attic.
De-Cluttering Process
Before you start a de-cluttering mission create a plan. Make a list of things you would need. Introspecting on the emotional implications of de-cluttering is also required. De-cluttering can trigger memories and hinder the process.
Once you make your mind start immediately. Don’t give yourself more time as it may lead to procrastination.
Make a list
Go through all rooms of your house and take notes. Decide on the total time required to clear the clutter from each room. Do this for the whole house including terrace/balcony and garage. Then create a time schedule for complete organization.
Box It
Get four cartons or boxes to sort out the stuff. Label the cartons, keep, give, throw and don’t know.
Use these cartons to segregate the clutter. You need to be decisive while doing this otherwise the ‘don’t know’ carton will overflow and the ‘throw’ carton will remain empty.
Baby Steps
Make the organizing process simple, easy and attainable. Think small. It’s amazing how much you get done even in ten minutes. Use a stopwatch while working. Short work plans are encouraging. Working ten or twenty minutes every-day is better than four hours a day and abandoning the project. So just clean one drawer or organize one file but do it.
Find a Friend
It’s a great idea to do it with a friend. You can share notes exchange tips and enjoy the process. It motivates you to stick to the de-cluttering plan. You can encourage each other and celebrate your success together.
Paper
Buy four file holders and label in a similar way mentioned above. Once you have organised everything don’t let paper pile. Immediately decide the plan of action as any paper enters your house, or spend five minutes every night to organize papers.
Clothes
‘Get one and throw one’ is the rule you should follow when it comes to clothes. Anytime you buy a new outfit let go of an old one. This creates space and keeps the closet organised.
Other Things
Clutter includes sundry things like art/craft material, scraps and gifts. Buy plastic boxes to store the art and craft supplies. Discard chipped or broken objects. Give away if you are not going to use it, or store in a box to use when required.
De-cluttering is a practice. Once your house is organised follow the system you have created and your house will always remain organised.
meena says
Thank you so much,Nupur! I was wondering how to clean my house after school gets over for this year, you have written a very useful article..
nupurt says
Many thanks Meena for your comment. I am glad that this article will help you to clean your house. Do share your experience here or on FB