|
CLUTTER is defined as, "A large amount of things that are not arranged in a neat or orderly way; a crowded or disordered collection of things”. Many people don’t realize that broken, unwanted, unused, and excessive things are clutter. They also don’t realize that it’s weighing them down and costing them a lot....physically, emotionally, financially, spiritually, and time.…lots of time! Wouldn't you like to be able to find what you need (when you need it) and stay on top of paperwork, thanks to a tidy and simple system? Minimalizing your belongings will free you from the chaos of clutter, as well as provide a more peaceful and organized living environment.
The process of decluttering can seem emotionally difficult. Our “things” have a sneaky way of controlling us by falsely defining who we are. The memories or monetary value linked to these items can hold us captive and force us to cling tightly to them. There are just as many reasons why we buy things as there are on why we keep things. If the things you own are taking over your home, it might be time to reevaluate them. Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of anything that distracts us from it. When it comes to "things", material objects without life or consciousness, we sometimes place a higher value on them than we do on actual LIVING things. We tend to focus so much of our time and energy on material objects, while unconsciously putting people (living, breathing beings with a soul) on the back burner, so to speak. Reflecting on the questions below can motivate a meaningful decluttering process.
Do I really have room for this item?
When was the last time I used this?
Do I have multiples of this but really only use or need one of them?
Do I have a purpose for this anymore?
Am I “planning” on selling this in a garage sale....someday?
Will the time & effort I put into a garage sale REALLY be worth the money I make?
Am I showing honor to my loved one, who gave me this item, by keeping it stored in a box, out of sight....never to be used?
Are there rooms in my home that aren't being utilized the way they should be because of too much stuff?
Do I want to have a home that is calmer, more joyful, less cluttered and tidy?
Could someone less fortunate or a worthy charity use some of my things?
How might my life be better with less?
Janice Van Cleaf
Home Organizer & Declutterer
602-910-1008
FunctionalLivingByFitz@yahoo.com
1 Timothy 6:6-8
"Godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it."