Often, people use moving as an opportunity to declutter their houses and eliminate unwanted or unused possessions from their lives.
Here are some helpful decluttering tips that can be applied before your next move.
1. Take it Slow
One of the reasons people don’t take the initial steps to declutter their household is that the process can seem far too overwhelming. However, that’s only when you’re looking at the process as a whole.
Instead, try taking it slow. Break it up into several smaller tasks instead of one large one. For example, instead of trying to do everything at once, set yourself an attainable goal.
This could be something as simple as, “I’m going to declutter one room a week for the next month,” or “I commit to spending twenty minutes a day on my decluttering project for a month.”
By setting goals and taking it slow, you begin to generate positive momentum. In the first couple of days, you might find it difficult to spend even 15 minutes sorting through your possessions. However, after the first week, you might find you have no problem taking an hour or more at a time to declutter.
2. Tackle Your Wardrobe First
One of the biggest sources of clutter in most people’s homes is their clothes. In fact, one study shows that most people use less than 50% of their wardrobe. The other clothes just sit there collecting dust.
But what should you do with old clothes? Here are a few options:
- Donate them to a friend or family member – if you know someone about the same size as you, ask them to take a look at your extra clothes to see if there’s anything they like.
- Donate them to goodwill – if you don’t know anyone who would fit (or needs) your clothes, the next best thing is to donate them to goodwill. This way you can help put clothes on the backs of those who are less fortunate.
- Throw them away – if you have clothes that are stained or damaged, sometimes the only option left is to throw them in the trash bin.
3. Take Before and After Photos
One of the most difficult things about decluttering is finding a way to stay motivated. Taking progress pictures is a great way to stay focused on your goals. These serve the dual purpose of showing you how far you have come while simultaneously showing you how far you need to go until you have achieved your goals.
4. Get Help
There’s no shame in asking for some assistance when embarking on a decluttering project. Consider asking friends or family to lend you a helping hand. In exchange for their efforts, offer to help them declutter their own home, or, treat them to a nice meal.
Having some company can actually make decluttering fun and you might even notice that the time flies by. Go ahead, invite some friends over, put on your favourite music, and get to work!
Western Moving – An Edmonton Moving Company
Decluttering is just one important aspect of your move. If you need help packing, transporting, or unpacking your belongings, consider getting in touch with us today!