Decluttering Resolutions You Can Actually Keep

If having a less cluttered and more manageable home are among your to-do’s this year, here are some easy-to-keep resolutions guaranteed to have lasting impact on your living space.

Don’t put it down, put it away. The easiest way to control clutter is to not create it in the first place. Get in the habit of putting things down where they should go now, so you can find them when you need them later.

Finish the task. Taking dirty dishes to the sink is good. Putting them in the dishwasher is better. Having a place for the mail is good. Sorting and tossing mail when you bring it in is better.

If you see something that needs to be done, do it. Instead of noticing something and telling yourself you’ll do it later, take a minute and do it now. Take out the garbage. Bring dishes to the kitchen. Pick up those crumbs.

Follow the “one in, one out” rule. When you’re out of room to put things away, it’s time to implement the “one in, one out” rule. Buying another book, winter coat, pair of shoes? As soon as you bring a new item in, make sure you take an old item out.

Designate a box for donations. Follow through on the “one in, one out” rule by having a place to put your discarded items. No need to worry where you’ll donate it. You can make those decisions when the box is full. Put the box in the garage so that the stuff you’re donating doesn’t find its way back into the house.

Put decluttering dates on your calendar. Small changes will make big differences over time. But if you want to make bigger changes more quickly, resolve to spend a certain amount of time every week or month on decluttering . Make the project manageable by taking on a little bit at a time. Start with a table, a drawer or a shelf. Don’t go further than you expected to. When you’ve done what you said you’d do, leave the rest for your next decluttering date.

Keep our number where you can find it. 650-740-4911 will get you to Maria and On The Move Downsizing and Design. Even if you aren’t ready to call in professional decluttering help right now, you may decide you could use help in the future.

Wishing you a very well-ordered, healthy and happy 2024!