A client once told me that she thought the clutter in her home was an outer expression of her inner chaos! I think she was right. I can also tell you about my personal experience, and hope you will learn a lesson from my story. I'll cut to the end: clear your clutter NOW, not later! Don't wait to enjoy the freedom.
My husband and I have our home for sale in Minneapolis. We have a very large house, and finally decided it was time to downsize. After 38 years of marriage and almost 14 years in our home, we had (as in past tense) a lot of stuff. Most of it is now gone, given away or packed away, and we are ready for a fresh new start in a smaller home.
Preparing our house for sale was the impetus for us. With the help of family and friends, and a consultation with a home stager, we began the gargantuan task of reducing, reusing and recycling. After many trips to the dump and to the thrift store, and a lot of elbow grease, our house is now beautifully staged and ready for sale. IT FEELS SO GOOD! Why did we wait so long? What are you waiting for?
Here are a few tips:
-
Ask for help. Barter with family and friends: I'll help you if you help me!
-
Start with one small project (one closet). When you realize how good it feels, go on to the next project.
-
Consider hiring a professional organizer or professional stager for advice and/or assistance.
-
Take absolutely everything you can to the thrift store. You will be doing yourself and someone else a favor.
-
And of course, if you find that your clutter is really an outer expression of your inner chaos – you might want to hire a Life Coach!
Finally, I highly recommend the idea of Re-Gifting. I've been giving away some personal items (books, scarves, jewelry, etc) to family and friends. It turns out everyone loves the idea, and I've started a new birthday tradition with my girlfriends!
Good luck in creating your own Freedom! I'm free at last!
Beata Rydeen, Professional Life Transitions Coach – beatarydeen@comcast.net
