Get Rid of Clutter During this Last Week of 2010

If you are somewhat like me, feeling the need to get rid of clutter and clean out closets, drawers and items I have not used in quite sometime, the perfect time to get rid of some of these items is now. The last week of 2010 is perfect for this chore. I want to start the year off feeling ready to take on the New 2011 with my books in order, my closets cleaned out and my office well organized. I have a few goals for 2011 and I do not want the distraction of clutter or things that need to be finished.

The article I read this morning from WholeLiving.com is perfect so read on:

7 clutter-clearing tips to get you started:

1) Do an assessment. Go through each room and ask yourself “Do I feel happy, organized and calm in here? Do I feel comfortable inviting friends or a romantic partner here? If not, figure out why (I’m guessing it has to do with a cluttery mess).

2) Start with surfaces. First point of attack: countertops, dining table, desk, coffee table, bookshelves. When you clear the surfaces, you’ll be motivated to tackle the closed-off stuff. And it gives the biggest reward because the space feels different.

3) Get bags and label them Storage, Throw-Away, Recycle, Re-gift and Not Sure. Once you’ve filled them (which we’ll start to do in a moment, you want to get them out of your house asap). As for the "not sure" bag, give yourself permission to keep it for two weeks. And if you haven't found reason to dip into it, out it goes.

4) Tackle one space, one room, at a time. Taking on too much at once will take you from clutter to chaos and then it’ll be hard to get anything done.

5) Ask yourself 4 clutter-clearing questions: Do I use it? Do I need it? Do I love it? Does it invoke a positive memory and make me happy? If your answer is no, then it’s time to go.

6) Keep your spirits and energy up. Put on some fun music, drink a lot of water, open the windows and try not to get overwhelmed. Remind yourself that you are opening yourself and your space to new passions, interests and opportunities. You might also ask a friend who is not emotionally attached to your stuff to help you.

7) Clean, dust and mop to make your new area shine.

Have a wonderful day!