This month, I’ll be answering some of your interesting and thought-provoking questions.
Q1 – Can anybody clear clutter or am I a hopeless hoarder?
We all have organizing abilities as well as clutter-creating habits. So no one is hopeless. With coaching, with practice, and with the will to change, we can overcome obstacles of all sizes. I recommend my S.M.A.R.T. system, where you start simply with a small decluttering area, a drawer, a shelf or just one section of a bathroom cabinet. This way you get successful results to keep you going. Take as little as 15 minutes of your time. Once you find momentum, you can tackle bigger spaces, and ultimately find relief in finding that old pair of glasses, spare change, and some old photos you want to share with others.
Q2 – What makes you an expert in organization and decluttering?
Great question. I’ve had well over 1500 hours of experience, originally beginning as a hobby and passion for organizing family and friends’ homes and garages. I keep learning, reading online articles, books, and watch all the hoarder shows on TV. Most importantly, I’ve created a compassionate system that works for every project. So with focused intention, compassion, a Feng Shui flair, and a keen eye for space relationships (like where things go), I’ve developed an efficient, sustainable way for you to be decluttered, organized and ultimately systematic with your stuff.
Q3 – What’s TMS and how do I get rid of it?
TMS stands for TOO MUCH STUFF. It’s a condition that nine out of 10 people have. We have simply gone too far with our consumerism, our retail therapy, and our inability to let go of things. We end up with a collection of stuff that is jumbled, confusing, and impacts our psyche.
One can begin to approach this “condition” by getting S.M.A.R.T. about your habits. For example, if you must buy another black skirt (and who doesn’t need to?) then at the very least, replace something you already own and donate that. The 1:1 ratio keeps you from collecting MORE stuff your closets can’t handle. Discard two items for every one you bring in, and you’ll be on your way to downsizing your stuff more quickly.
Q4 – When I think of decluttering, I get overwhelmed and procrastinate. How do I get started?
Another great question.
Using the S.M.A.R.T system I’ve devised, the number one tool to remember is to Start Simply & Simply Start. Work on an area of your home that needs just a tiny bit of attention. Try a kitchen drawer, a nightstand drawer, a bookshelf, or a section of garage.
I suggest you time yourself for a 15 - 30 minute session and turn up the tunes, get a favorite beverage and dress comfortably. With plenty of garbage bags to discard unwanted items, a box for donations for a charity, and a new appreciation for what you have, you’ll be well on your way. After 30 minutes, decide: “Do I continue for another 15 - 30 min, or am I done for today?” If you’re done, reschedule time for another session. Before too long, you’ll have trained yourself to be your own steady customer.
For more on the S.M.A.R.T. system and to see what else we’ve been up to, visit APlus-ClutterClearing.com or call for a free consultation: 561-706-7779.
Be well, and be happy, no matter what! ‘Tis the Season!!
Clear the Clutter…Clear the Mind™