Happy November!
Well, friends, we've made it over halfway through November with cooler temps, falling leaves, and now our holiday calendars are filling up with celebration events for the holidays! I personally love this time of year with crisp, cold nights, the wonderful smells of pumpkin spice lattes, yummy holiday treats, sweet family time, etc. The list is endless, and the wonderful time of year is just getting started! However with a brand new year right around the corner, why not consider some easy steps to start fresh in the home this year with less clutter? Whether you are desiring some simple organization in your current home, or you are preparing for a big move in the Spring, this post is designed especially for you. Let us help you tackle projects with quick, easy steps to encourage efforts to declutter for 2018. Plus, you just might be able to bless a few others in the process!
A Simple Plan
Ok, Some of you may be thinking I'm crazy to suggest decluttering during the holidays, but think about the mounds of unused clutter in your home right now that are tampering with your space. I'm talking about items stashed around that never get touched, except to be moved out of the way to make room for more stuff! How many unused things are lying around, falling off hangers, and cluttering up your precious time and space? With Christmas on the way, there will be even more items soon to arrange in already crowded spaces. So, here is the plan. Start making a list of piles and purging now, giving yourself adequate time to complete each project. This will empower you in small ways to start creating a healthier and functional home that is organized and peaceful.
Process and Elimination
The process and elimination method is simple and practical, and involves three, easy steps of sorting, decision making, and purging. You may use these steps in order, or whatever best suits you. These are meant to be guidelines to help you make progress in eliminating excess from your home, and help you regain control of your space. Below is an example of items to start thinking about. Choose the piles that currently create the greatest amount of stress in your life and tackle those first. With just a little time and effort, you will see great results!
Sorting, Decision Making, and Purging
Start by separating those specific piles from the others by taking them to an open area where you can spread them out on a clean surface (table or floor space, etc). I recommend one pile at a time so that you don't get overwhelmed. Sort each item on it's own so that you can properly see what you have. Once you have laid all of the items out, you're ready for these questions. You might have someone who knows you well do this with you.
Questions to ask:
Is it still usable, or does it need to be trashed?
How long has it been since I've used it?
Does it bring me joy?
Can someone else get better use out of it, or who can I bless this year?
After you have asked these simple questions, you can start purging! I would suggest a trash bag for all trash, and boxes for items to give away. Clear all trash and donations away before you attend the items you've decided to keep. Getting rid of the excess first will help to clear your mind to then organize what's left. Once you start a project and begin to see the results, you will find motivation to tackle other projects. You will be well on your way to a more organized home in the new year!
As always, if you need assistance, Brogley's is ready with well prepared organizers to assist you in your decluttering and downsizing needs. From large projects to more simple ones, we are excited to help you get organized. Please consider contacting us today for a free consult and start off 2018 with a brand new way of life!
The Season of Giving
As we approach the Christmas holiday, decluttering is a wonderful way to find hidden and gently used items that might greatly benefit someone else and their loved ones. Why not make a list of charities or families that you would like to bless with those extra warm clothes, coats, hats, gloves, scarves, books, toys, games etc? As you are making your home more functional and organized for you and your family, you might be able to add warmth, hope and happiness to someone else's. We hope with this season of giving you will find ways to reach into the hearts and homes of the less fortunate. May your Christmas and New Year be one of love, peace and great joy.
Happy Decluttering,
The Brogley's Team