Environmentally Conscious Decluttering

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 clutter. Physical clutter creates obstacles in their space, slowing down their movements and impeding their ability to find their belongings. Time clutter fills their calendars with meaningless activities. Mind clutter prevents them from doing their best thinking.

I believe the greater good often comes when we allow ourselves to declutter imperfectly, so that we can more quickly create an environment that allows us to be our best selves and get on with our lives. Marilyn Paul’s fabulous book title, It’s Hard to Make a Difference When You Can’t Find Your Keys, sums it up quite nicely.

Often, we can achieve a happy medium—donating and recycling when practical, but not holding on to clutter because there is no perfect way to dispose of it.

Tell us about the resources you’ve found that help you declutter.