Tag Archive for: reducing

You’re in control

One effective way to stay organized is to remove (or reduce) anything in our homes that we can’t keep under control. Items that fall into this category are usually things we have in large quantities or excess. Some examples are an excessive amount of clothes, books, toys, shoes, paperwork, or collections. Think of an amount that is manageable and work towards achieving that amount.

3D Character and question mark

Everything has potential

Potential usefulness is not the same as usefulness. It can be tempting to hold onto things because they have potential. I urge you to reevaluate and be honest with yourself. Ask questions to help evaluate the true value of an item.

  • How realistic is the potential of this item?
  • What condition is it in?
  • What is the likelihood that I’ll use this item?
  • Will this item be used within 6 months?
  • If this item was damaged would I replace it?
  • Would someone else appreciate the potential of this item more?

The world is full of items will potential, but if you’re not using or appreciating them, let them go to someone who will.

this or that sweater

Compare instead of decide

When deciding what to keep and what not to keep, compare two items at a time. Do you like this item more than that item? Which one do I use more? Wear more? Feel better about?

Other helpful tips:

photo albums on shelf

Keep only your favorites

Identify your favorite things and make space to enjoy those things. This will probably require the removal of unused, outdated, and unwanted stuff. By reducing those possessions, your favorite things have breathing room, and you have less to organize and maintain.

Here are a few suggestions:

How many is enough?

Use instead of store

There is a distinction between using things and storing things. One signifies action and the other signifies stockpiling. For example, using up the big jug of laundry detergent you bought vs. storing the 5 jugs of laundry detergent you bought. Which situation requires less effort to organize and maintain? Go with that one!