LET GO... BE FREE!

Are your closets bulging beyond their borders?  Has clutter crept in over time to overrun corners, cabinets, stairways and closets?  Efforts to junk-proof your life are about keeping what you use and love while letting go of the rest.   

Take charge!  Lose the clutter and free up some space!  Pick an area to focus your de-junking efforts that is equal to the time available and your ability.  Not sure where to begin?  Timid?  Start small with a drawer, shelf or floor space.  If you're courageous, tackle a closet.  A few tips to help you stay on task and carry through 'til the job is complete.

1. Empty out the space.  Yes, completely.  Take it all out!

2. Paint the space if needed.  Freshen up the space before repacking it.  Pick a light color for closet walls and ceiling so you can better see it's contents in the future.

3. Sort through the contents of your target space while the paint dries...  put items into one of three piles:

1. KEEP  
KEEP what you will actually use & love.
2. RECYCLE
RECYCLE what is good enough to be used by someone else.
3. TRASH
TRASH the rest.

Questions to ask yourself as you sort:

1- Have I used it in the last year?  No?  Let it go.  (Give it away or sell it.)

2- I didn't know I had that!  Let it go.  You obviously didn't really need it.

3- Does it have sentimental value?  Then why is it hiding in a closet?  If it is truly important, frame it, display it, use it or pass it along.

4. Do you love it? Truly? Take it out of hiding and use it or let it go to someone else who will 'love' it!

Sorting Tip:
Hold items in your hand for 10 seconds, pick a pile and set it down.  Do not spend time deliberating, reminiscing or talking yourself into 'needing' an item.   

Be QUICK.  Be RUTHLESS.  Be DONE!

'Letting go with grace' is an acquired skill.  It is just stuff.  It does not define you.  Please don't leave it behind for others to sort through when you move on.  If it's not needed or of use anymore, let it go.   Live in freedom!

Next time: Tips on organizing your storage space!   For now, the hard work is in sorting.  Be courageous.  Let go and be free!