Conquering Clutter, Step by Step – TPW016

In episode 14 we started a conversation about decluttering. This week we look at it again, talking about a step-by-step process for decluttering and organizing our homes (or workspace) one room at a time.

Tip of the Week: Stop using your smart phone as an alarm clock and get it off your bedside table. Check out the reasons why in this blog post by Carley Knobloch.

Tool of the Week: An intriguing book called Your Beautiful Life by Karen Schravemade. Find out more, including how to pick it up for FREE at Karen's website. You can also learn more about Karen and what she does on her Facebook page,

Topic of the Week: A step by step process for decluttering.

1. Which room do you want to start in?
2. What do you want to accomplish in that room? What do you need/want to do there? How do you want to feel there? Create a vision in your mind for how that room will look and feel when you've finished the process.
3. Calculate how much time you need, and schedule appointments with yourself to go through the process.
4. Assemble the materials and supplies you'll need.
5. On the appointed day(s), go through the process of sorting, purging, cleaning, and organizing:
   • Start in one corner of the room and work your way around clockwise.
   • Touch every item in the room and sort it into the appropriate category – trash, give away, belongs elsewhere, needs repair or cleaning, and keep.
   • While the shelves, cupboards, and drawers are empty, clean them.
   • As you identify containers or storage items, jot them down.
   • PURGE – about each of the “keep” items, ask yourself: Do I use it? Do I love it? Does it add beauty or functionality? If I were shopping right now, would I pay money for this? If not, get rid of it!
6. On your next errands trip, pick up the storage items you need.
7. Put the “keep” items back in the right place–each item near where you use it . . .
8. When you've finished, celebrate the accomplishment and enjoy your cleaner, less cluttered space!

What about you? What room will you start this process in? What's your best suggestion for decluttering? Share your questions or suggestions in the comments!

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A great resource with detailed information about the process is Julie Morgenstern's wonderful book, Organizing from the Inside Out.

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