Best Decluttering Questions

If you don’t use and/or love it, (and I mean SUPERDUPERLOVE it and would fall into a deep depression if it was gone), then you must let go of it and move forward with a less cluttered, more blissful life. Cool?
— Fay Wolf from NEW ORDER

WHAT TO ASK WHEN YOU DON’T KNOW HOW TO START

You’ve made up your mind to organize your space which is great.  One of the first steps is to declutter, but you’re not sure how to sift through your belongings or how to start.

Try asking these questions to move through your stuff.


 

1

Do I love it?

If you love it and it makes you happy – by all means, keep it. Be aware you'll have to part with other things to make room for what you keep.


 

2

Do I use it?

If so, how often?  If you use it, then yes, keep it.  If it’s something that is seasonal or used less often, consider moving it to another space.  If you're not really using it, toss it!


 

3

Is it worn, broken, or in need of repair?

If it's past it's prime, you might have to part with it. If it's something you use, replace it.  If it's reparable, give yourself a time limit to fix it. If not, toss it out.


 

4

Do I have more than one?

It’s okay to have multiples if you use them.  Extra supplies are fine to keep on hand.  But for those of you hanging onto something because of "what if?"  Chances are it's taking up valuable real estate in your space. 


 

5

Am I keeping it because of guilt?

Sometimes we purchase something and regret spending the money.  Don’t beat yourself up.  Just be more thoughtful the next time you buy.

Was it a gift?  If it’s not your style, and you’re not digging it, donate or give it to someone who will use it. 

If sentimental or it’s a family heirloom, ask can I give it to someone else in the family that may want it?


 

6

Can I donate it?

This seems like an easy question.  But if you ask any donation center, half the stuff they get is junk, and can’t be used, much less sold.  In order to determine if an item is worth donating, it should be in good working order. It might have some wear and tear but it should not be stained or have holes. It should work if turned on.

Ask yourself, would you buy it at a second-hand store? If not, throw it out or recycle it.


I hope these questions helped make the process and decision-making easier. If you start to feel overwhelmed, get stuck, or need help.  Feel free to reach out to me. 

I would love to assist you!

 

Happy Decluttering Everyone!

Ann Faber