By Tori Goodrich
There’s no question that decluttering a home can be a tricky project, especially if there is no move or downsize to prompt it. But there is a freedom in having your home be a place of relaxation and simplicity, not clutter and constant frustration that you have too much stuff and no where to put it.
Yes, basement, attics and even storage units can be helpful but put a time limit on what’s really in there and why.
The 4 Boxes Inventory System
Here’s how the “four boxes” organizing approach works:
Put four boxes in the room you are working on. Start small; an office, a bedroom, a closet. Put a timer on and have a specific time set aside to work on this area and not be interrupted. Don’t get lost in the process. Stay on task.
Here’s the really hard part that drives my clients crazy when I help them with the process, “You can only touch an item once, then it goes into one of 4 boxes. WHAT! Really, I am serious.
1) “Keep Until I Die” For items with sentimental value, such as family heirlooms, personal letters, wedding china and photo albums.
2) “Appraise and Sell” For unwanted items of value.
3) “Keep with Me” For unsentimental items, such as furniture and art.
4) “Garage Sale/Donate” For unwanted items.
Then, go room by room. This is extremely hard to do alone, so ask a friend or professional to do it with you. It goes so much faster.
For bigger items that won’t fit in boxes — like furniture, artwork and workout equipment — consider putting pictures of them on index cards and then dropping the cards in the appropriate boxes.
I know it’s not a job that you would choose first on your “to do” list but I promise as you make your way around your home, garage, or storage space, it’s amazing how productive and clearer you will feel. I promise.
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Tori Goodrich is a life, business and professional; What Should I Do Now coach. She is also the co-owner of Gener8tional Connections helping companies work through the great divide. Visit her on the web at www.victoriagoodrich.com, or reach her via email at [email protected].
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