Simplify – Oh yes, it’s time to clean out!
By Mary Cusack, ASID
It may sound easy to some, but unfortunately many of us fall into the –“save until I die”--mode. I know that I will use (fill in the blank) _____someday. You know what I am talking about.
My sister, Pat, says to get rid of it before it becomes an heirloom. Unfortunately it is too late for me. I am attached to my stuff. It is a great reminder of past happenings and memories. Just mention photos. It seems I have taken hundreds and hundreds of pictures on trips, at weddings, important events, gatherings, children and grandchildren – PRICELESS. What to do with all these heirlooms?
After a few years, all that stuff accumulates and collects until it becomes all consuming, and of course there is never enough storage. Also storage is costly. It has to be built, cooled, heated and taken care of.
Time -- one of our most important commodities. It takes a lot of time to organize, reorganize and keep these many things. Living in the present is a far better way to live – definitely better than being saddled with the past.
Now it is time to get started. Don’t hesitate. I am not recommending getting rid of the really important things – just simplify. We’ve all read about different ways to clean out. Select your style, but most importantly just get going. It gets easier with a little practice.
When drawers and closets are stuffed full, I suggest getting rid of 50%. I know that sounds drastic, but you will be amazed at how easy it becomes. Before you put the remaining 50% back, try to get rid of another 25% or even 30% more.
Remember simplifying ones belongings cannot happen over night. Methodically tackle one area at a time and keep going. Now that you are doing this, you can really focus on the best of the best. You will discover some really fabulous present or future heirlooms. Consider setting a few out as accessories. These things have a story and say who we are.
The rewards are endless. Your home will seem so much larger. Now there is space -- space for the really important treasures. Cleaning house is twice as easy. You do not have to stuff things into already stuffed closets and there is less to dust. Everything generally looks neater and definitely stays neater. There is no clutter to deal with.
Remember looking for something that could never be found. I generally give up and go out and buy it creating more stuff. That is a thing of the past as now there is a place for everything.
Just think, now there is room for all the new stuff.