Decluttering comes down to a matter of physics. Most people just don’t have the space to comfortably keep everything they would like. Choices have to be made about what stays and what goes. Making so many decisions is hard enough, but the choices represent giving up something deeper than just the items in question, and … Read more
Has your inner critic been wreaking havoc lately? We all have those little voices that point out our flaws, or worse, say very mean things to us. The process of going through years of accumulated papers and possessions creates a real playground for our inner critic, as we are confronted with all the “woulda, coulda, … Read more
Decluttering, organizing and attempting new habits can stir up that inner critic. We are reminded of missed opportunities and mistakes; of things we wish we had done better, or differently, or not at all. Our imperfections and flaws take center-stage. If you’re thinking that you need to be self-critical, then I ask you to assess … Read more
You head into the spare bedroom that has become a dumping ground, full of good intentions to clear it all out and reclaim your space. But as you pick up each item, something happens on the way to the donation box. A little voice says, “Maybe I need to keep this.” Soon you walk out, discouraged … Read more
Some people find it easier to let go of items if they know they’re being environmentally conscientious. I support those instincts, but here’s the flip side. I see a lot of bright, creative, talented people who have much to offer to their families, communities and the planet; but they aren’t fulfilling their potential because of … Read more
I frequently get asked about stopping the influx of junk mail. Here are some resources to remove yourself from those mailing lists, and a few other tips for not getting added to new ones. CatalogChoice: More time consuming, but more individualized. Search for specific companies, non-profits and political organizations from which you don’t wish to receive … Read more
A recent podcast on StuffYouShouldKnow.com explored whether objects or experiences make us happier. Research indicates that the happiness people feel after acquiring a new object fades after time. This isn’t surprising, but it got me to wondering, after the happiness fades, what’s left? And is that next feeling that comes along a good variable for … Read more
I’ve heard people express concern because they save things for the same reasons as the people they see on the hoarding shows on cable TV. They wonder if this means they are developing a hoarding problem. I have good news. This alone is not reason to worry that you are developing a hoarding problem. Whether we … Read more
I came across this article describing the use of body doubles. No, a body double isn’t someone to stand in for you when you have your picture taken, at least not in this context. A body double is a person who stays present with you while you do tasks that you know how to do, … Read more
The reasons we save things can be broken down to four categories. When struggling with decluttering decisions, it may be helpful to identify which category applies to the items in question and maybe even sort those items accordingly. It might teach you a little bit about yourself! 1. Personal identity “Giving this away would be … Read more