Moving: a great way to declutter

About seven years ago, I went paperless when I realized how much money I’d save on moving expenses if I didn’t haul boxes and boxes of papers with me. At the same time, I realized how much of my stuff really didn’t mean anything to me anymore. I took a very bold step and got rid of clutter I’d been toting around for years, from coast to coast. I was afraid I’d miss my stuff.

I never did. It was the most freeing experience in the world.

At my current – soon to be former – abode, I’ve followed a few essential steps to prevent cluttering in the first place, like the six-month rule and the occasional purging of my “ooh, this might come in handy someday” pile. I also came up with the 5 step decluttering program that I now follow once or twice a year to deal with the inevitable clutter that still shows up in your home, no matter how much care you take to prevent it.

But now that I’m moving again, I see that I still have more clutter than I think I have. Once again, I’m being absolutely ruthless with myself in determining what I will take to the new place and what has to find a new home. I’m following the six month rule like crazy. I’m getting rid of stuff that’s totally worth a few bucks because I know honestly I don’t want it at the new place. I won’t use it. And if I hold onto it with the intent of selling… well, guess what? I’ve been in my current place for several years and throughout that time, I’ve maintained a pile of “I’m going to sell that someday” stuff. That’s ridiculous. Clearly, I’m never going to sell it, and I’m not going to miss it. So that stuff’s got to go for free – to charities, recycling, whatever will take it.

I’m so excited about moving into a new, completely empty place with less stuff. It’s a brand new slate for me and my stuff.

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Posted in Organization on May 31, 2008