Every year we hear the phrase "Spring
Cleaning" and for many of us it is a reminder to
start the task of decluttering, organizing, and
cleaning. This phrase conjures up images of
clear and open spaces and organized rooms,
but who wants to clean or organize when the
days are warmer and longer and we're rearing
to get outdoors after being cooped up for the
winter? Finding the motivation to start with
spring cleaning can be so overwhelming that
we oftentimes get stuck in thinking about it
and don't actually do anything. Here are some
ways to get started and motivate yourself!
Pace Yourself: The key to successful spring
cleaning is to not try to do it all. Start with a
few manageable and realistic goals that you
know you can do. For example, plan to
organize your small entry way closet versus
organizing the entire attic that is full of boxes
and seasonal items. Set aside time for your
clutter clearing sessions. Think about how you
work best - some people prefer to work for no
more than 30 minutes, whereas some people
may find that once they start the momentum
keeps them going.
Organize and energize: Organizing and
decluttering can be energizing. Visualize how
great your space will look once you've
completed your tasks, and how refreshed you
will feel. Keep your mind on the positive end
result. As you embark on the process of
decluttering, think about what makes you feel
good. If you work well with music, play some
of your favorite energizing tunes to help
motivate you to move around your rooms, or
place a vase of fresh flowers or candles near
you to inspire the natural beauty in your space.
Clear the clutter: Start by sorting things into
categories (i.e. like with like, versus
categorizing by color, size, or favorite items). It
will be a lot easier to sort through your items
when you can see how much you have of
similar type. When you're organizing
throughout your space, tackle each room by
starting with items on the floor, then surfaces
like dressers, nightstands and bookshelves,
then gradually work into the inside of your
closets, drawers and cabinets.
CONQUER YOUR
SPACE
The Key Threes - Keep, Toss, or Donate: As you
declutter, you will have to make decisions on
your items and most will fall into one of three
categories: Keep, Toss, or Donate. Keep items
that use regularly, need, and like and enjoy.
Toss items are that damaged beyond repair,
expired, and items that you have used and
need to be recycled . Donate items that you
haven't used in a long time, and no longer
need or like. As you work with your items, ask
yourself " why you are keeping an item?",
versus asking "why should I get rid of it?" By
framing this question in a more positive tone,
it gives you a chance to think about what you
use the item for, when you last used it, if you
will use it again, and if you still like it.
Relax and relish: Organizing can be physically
and emotionally draining. Plan something to
treat yourself after each organizing session for
your hard work and time well spent. Make time
for a night out with friends, a relaxing day at
the spa, or a quiet night at home. Whatever
you do, know that you have conquered your
space and are well on your way to living
organized.
Margarita M. Cossuto, PhD is a professional
organizer and owner of Living Organized, LLC.
She works with clients in Connecticut and New
York. Connect with her at 203-451-7880 or
www.lorganized.com. She would like to thank
Dr. Ronald G. Shapiro for helpful comments