Simplify Your Space!

Do you have too much stuff? Are you struggling to find things?

Is your body telling you something is wrong? Your body may be in a fight or flight mode, attempting to survive the brain fatigue caused by decision fatigue. You are not alone.

It doesn’t matter if you live in a 900 square foot home or a 3500 square foot home, your stuff can fill up your space unnecessarily causing feelings of emotion and overwhelm.

Additional storage space is not the answer. I promise.

What do you do? Here are 6 tips to recognize that your “stuff” may be out of control.

Are you paying for storage to store unused items?

Let me be clear, not all storage is unhealthy. Sometimes the need to rent a unit is necessary when a loved one passes away and their possessions have become your issue to deal with. If that is the case read my blog on how to tackle the extra home clean out. But for today’s purpose, let’s assume the storage unit is for your extra items. If you are paying rent monthly to house unused/needed items this is a big sign that you have too much. Think of this storage unit as a temporary solution not a long term plan.

From time to time our seasons require a transition period and a storage unit can be an excellent way to keep the clutter and organizing stages out of your everyday living space (super healthy option). However if a storage unit has become the long term solution you may be wasting money every month. Taking your items, box by box, or table by table might be necessary. Think of opportunities like marketplace, city-wide rummage sales or donation centers as a means to release and bless others with your stuff.

Is cleaning up before guests a part of your routine?

Living with clutter becomes a strain on your brain. If the thought of visitors stresses you out or you avoid those opportunities you might have too much stuff. I get it. Dusting is my nemesis and the struggle is real. So if dusting is not on your favorite chore on the list have you thought perhaps having less to dust might be a good solution? If tidying up the bathroom or kitchen is a must before your host, that’s normal. We all take pride in our homes and want to give the best 1st impression. But if you have to remove furniture, rearrange projects and there is no place for anyone to sit down and visit, then you absolutely have too much stuff.

Flat surfaces are the catch all be all.

This ties to number 2 above. I say this lovingly, but just because it’s a horizontal surface doesn’t mean it has to be full. Clutter is the death of joy. The touch it once technique is a great way to consider your horizontal spaces. For example, daily mail. Bills, magazines, and junk mail can up quickly and make your workable spaces feel very cluttered. Touch it once. That means take the mail from the mail box and walk directly to your recycle or garbage bins. If it’s junk mail, recycle it immediately. If it’s periodicals or magazines you no longer read or want to read, recycle them immediately. Bills and other correspondence get opened on the spot. Bills get filed appropriately for payment and correspondence will be addressed immediately to avoid misplacing it.

Can’t find anything?

You are not alone in this category. Many people think storage solutions are the answer and let me just say, organization can come in many forms. I personally am a fan of storage bin organization but not for the reasons you might think. I have found over the years that bin storage that is properly labeled is the key to that type of storage solution. Whether you use a clear bin so you can see through it or a dark colored tote labeling it appropriately is the key. Think of your holiday decorations. A tote labeled ornaments will be easier to recognize than randomly searching through totes for your Christmas tree skirt. Make a plan to have a space for everything and put everything in its place. You will not only save time, energy and enthusiasm but your sanity will thank you later.

Not sure where to start?

There is no perfect plan other than to start. I would suggest the table next to your recliner. Or the dining room table. Start in one small area and put your items away, tidy up the surface and recognize the win. Tackling the entire bedroom closet or the garage is not sustainable or smart. Small steps lead to big wins. Once the table is clear, move onto the silverware drawer or the junk drawer. Pat yourself on the back, take the win. Recognizing the process of letting things go is a healing and healthy part of the process.

Smile and Acknowledge

This sounds lame, I know, but it’s not! Small wins matter. Remind yourself this mess didn’t happen overnight, nor will it be cleaned up overnight. Changing your habits and recognizing the small wins will keep your positivity high and your emotions in check. Allowing for the process to reveal itself to you through small accomplishments will help to ensure the habits are changed and acknowledged for the future. Living with less really does equate to living more. Good luck and best wishes.