1. Make sure
you sort your things before you buy storage containers.
If you sort first, then you'll be sure to buy the right size and
number of boxes. If you buy extra containers, you'll just
fill them up with stuff because you can!
2. Start
with one shelf or drawer. Don't
look at the whole room that needs to get de-cluttered, it’s
overwhelming and doesn’t help in any situation. Pick one shelf ...
how about the one at eye level ... and work on this one first. Feels
great, doesn't it?
3. Limit
your time!
This is so important. Use a timer (if you don’t' have one, use
the one on your microwave, phone etc...) and set it for maximum 30
minutes! Stop when your timer goes off. Relax and feel proud of the
progress ever so small. Set aside time each day and you'll be amazed
at how quickly you'll get organized.
4. Keep
things together!
Have you ever "lost" the special light bulb you need for
your chandelier? Or know that you bought some folders for your files
but can't find them when the time comes to use them? Keep things
together that are similar. Categorize your items so they make sense
to you, and they will be easy to find. It'll save you money, time and
space! And you won't duplicate purchases.
5. Team up
with a buddy!
If you don't want to use the services of a Professional Organizer or
Move Manager, working with a friend always makes it easier. Be sure
you ask them to be objective and tell you when certain things
should be discarded! Mrs. Harris found
the above especially helpful during her Reallocation, take her advice
and do the same!