As we start to move into the colder months we begin the tendency to naturally spend more time indoors. The idea of more time inside might be hard to fathom as you enjoy the crisp air, inspiring autumnal colors and the opportunity to go apple or pumpkin picking to celebrate the season. However, as the leaves begin their descent and cool nights become cold days our instincts take hold and we begin our migration indoors. Knowing that this experience is on the horizon is your opening to begin creating an indoor space that you will love to occupy. Consciously creating a space that can nurture and support your well-being. One simple way to optimize your nest is to remove clutter and organize your belongings. Taking time now to make your space great, before you are stuck inside from a snow storm or freezing temperatures, will help you savor those moments of sipping mulled cider or hot chocolate by the fire, that are on the horizon.
This article will give you simple solutions to help you clear the clutter and begin enjoying your space.
Clutter brings low energy to your home and depletes your vitality. When you have a cluttered space it bogs down your personal energy due to the innate mechanisms in the subconscious part of the brain that unconsciously keep you focused on the instinctual need to clear the clutter. So, whether you are walking by the piles of clutter or engaged in an activity miles away, part of you is tuned- in to the need to let you and your space breath easy. Begin to remove the clutter and organize your stuff now so that you are able to truly enjoy your home in the coming months when you will be spending more time inside.
1. Organize Your Strategy
Breaking the process of clutter clearing down into manageable pieces takes out the overwhelm. Don’t try to tackle everything all at once this can be defeating. Put a strategy in place so that you know exactly what needs to be done and when. Make a list of the rooms that need to be revitalized and the areas within each room that need your attention. Something like…
Bedroom: Fri-Sun
Drawer next to bed: Fri
Closet: Sat
Dresser: Sun
Mudroom: Mon-Wed
Key drawer: Mon
Closet: Tues & Wed
Realistically assess how much time each space will take you to purge and organize. Give yourself ample time to complete each area so that you are able to accomplish your goals. This will leave you feeling satisfied and confident allowing you to tackle each new area. This is a much better feeling than being disappointed that you were unable to complete what you had set out on accomplishing.
2. What You Need: 4 categories
Throw out, Donate, Not Ready to Part With, & Find a Home
The process of clearing the clutter is simple. There are four categories: throw out, donate, not ready to part with but never use and find a home. You will need a big heavy-duty garbage bag, a large shopping bag and two boxes. In big bold marker label the boxes “Find a Spot” and “1 Year” with today’s date. Begin going through the first area on your list and put items that are garbage in the big garbage bag. Include anything worn, broken, chipped or in disrepair. Next, take your big shopping bag and go on a shopping spree in your closet or drawer for someone less fortunate than you. Plan to donate these items to an actual person or organization in need. You will benefit from the act of giving which will uplift your spirit. Find the things that are in good shape that you haven’t worn or used in you-can’t-remember-when and have lost their sparkle for you. Put these items in the shopping bag to donate. With the remaining items decipher items you truly love and use regularly (put these in the “Find a Spot” box) with the items that you like but never use (place these items in the “1-Year” with today’s date box).
3. Take Action Immediately
Take immediate action with the boxes and bags so that they don’t become unwanted clutter. Throw out the garbage, bring the donation bag to the person in need, tape up the “1 year” box and place it in an area where you can put the all the “1 year” boxes. (Did I mention that if you haven’t gone back to the box in a year you should donate or throw out the box?)
With the items in the “Find a Spot” box it is helpful to create a designated spot. This will help you know where items are and where to place items when you are finished using them… that way the area won’t get cluttered again.
4. Start in Your Bedroom
Begin with your bedroom. Make this a nest that nurtures you and an oasis away from clutter elsewhere. This room is incredibly important because you (hopefully) spend seven or so hours in it each day. It is the last room you see before you nod off for a sweet slumber and the first room you see upon waking. Creating an organized bedroom will help your sleep to be sweeter effecting your mind, body and spirit. It will also help you to begin your day in a more positive way. Allow your bedroom to give you the support you need and deserve. This will help you tackle the next cluttered area on your list.
As you clear your space, begin to notice the before and after difference in your overall sense of well-being. Do you and your space breath easy? Are you going to enjoy spending time watching the snowflakes fall outside your window?
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Happy Soaring!
XOXO
