- I cannot declutter AND keep everything – that’s called re-arranging! I need to let go of some stuff by removing it from my home.
- Decluttering is clearing out the unwanted and unneeded stuff from my past so I can go forward in to my future, with more space and more freedom. There is far more to consider than the price of the item; what is the message associated with it?
- Do I like it? If not, why am I keeping it? Why would I clutter my life up with stuff that’s not me, makes me feel bad about myself or simply annoys me?
- Do I want / need this in my life now? Seasons come and go; I change as I go through life, so it’s OK to not keep all that I used to have in past seasons.
- Is this associated with happy memories? Some items remind me of days / people / places that I would rather forget. Why would I torment myself by having the physical reminders in my current space?
- Is it in the condition that I am happy with? What message is it sending me? Does wearing underwear with holes make me feel special? Does drinking from a chipped cup make me feel worthy?
- Just because it’s always been in my life, do I still need to keep it? Some things seem to end up in our life and move from place to place with us, without being assessed. Now is the time!
- Just because it was given to me as a gift, do I still have to keep it, especially if it’s not to my liking? No, I won’t let what others control me. It was given to me as a gift and I am free to do whatever I want with it.
- Allow myself to ‘acknowledge the memories’ as I clear the clutter. It can be a trip down memory lane. Cry, forgive, laugh, reminisce…whatever is needed.
- Sentimental items and paper (“Memorabilia”) are best kept in a special box to enjoy and treasure. Remember to check it out from time to time!
- I can give the stuff away to a Recycling / Charity Store – “someone out there will love it!” As I bless others, I will be blessed.
- If I am going to E-Bay it / Garage sale it, realise this takes extra time and effort. Am I really serious about doing this? If so, decide on a date, mark it in my diary and be strict with myself to give the items away if I haven’t done it by that date.
- With what remains after decluttering, I will store the wanted / needed items so they’re easily accessible. It will be a fresh start with the items that are appropriate to my life now.
- I will “Finish the Job” and discipline myself to put the item away where it belongs, now.
- I will congratulate myself and get ready for some great new things in my life. I have cleared out the ‘old’ so there’s room for the ‘new,’ however that may present!!
Bonus Tip: If it all gets too much for me on my own, I can always call Helen at Clarity Matters to come and help me – 0410 649 481