Definitions of Clutter*

• Things that are not used


• Things that were given to you that you don’t like or need


• Things that were given to you by someone who caused you pain


• Things that you have in multiples


• Projects that have been waiting for a long time to be finished


• Supplies/books from projects that no longer interest you


• Memorabilia from people or events in the past that have no value or meaning now


• Things that drain your energy


• Things that have negative connotations


• Things that remind you of unpleasant events or times


• Things that make you feel bad about yourself


• Things that cannot be fixed (they may be broken, torn, stained, or cracked) or that you do not think you will ever fix


• Collections-displayed or packed away


• Too many things displayed in a small area


• Poor buying decisions (e.g. clothing, furniture, etc.)

*From the National Association of Professional Organizers Newsletter            

Uncluttering and Organizing a Big Area

1.     The Big Sort

a.      Concentrate on putting things into categories quickly using signs: Keep, Throw, Sell, Give Away, Donate, Recycle

b.     If you’re not sure, put it in the keep pile.

c.      Stay focused since you’re just sorting.

d.     Don’t read everything or struggle with deciding.

2.     Purging

a.      What is your goal? If you want more room and less clutter, be tough!

b.     Go through things one by one. Some things will be harder to let go of than other things. If you haven’t used it or touched it in 2 years, let it go.

c.      Assign a ‘body double’: someone to help make decisions.

3.     Assigning a Home

a.      Everything needs a home (one area only) or it ends up as clutter. 

b.     Make sure you and everyone else knows where it belongs.

4.     Containerize

a.      Opaque or solid? Lid or basket? Plastic or wicker?   

b.     Make sure it’s easily accessible to all users.

5.     Maintain

a.      Take a little time each week to maintain.

b.      When things change, don’t be afraid to rework the system.           

“If you think getting organized is time consuming, try disorganization.”
- Jeff Davidson, Author and Professional Speaker

Vali G. Heist