Got Books?

January 2021 – Got Books?

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” -Arthur Ashe

The next time you feel overwhelmed, pause, take a deep breath and focus on right now. Right where you are now. Then, based upon the amount of time you have at that moment, do what you can. Before you go down the path of “shoulding” yourself, do one action that will show progress of even a tiny degree. Doing the next right thing will redirect the overwhelm into hope. Try it!

Declutter Challenge Update

There are currently 64 courageous people enrolled in the January Declutter Challenge. Over half attended our mid-month Zoom call and I am in awe of the progress that so many of the members are making. We have built a strong and supportive community during these past few weeks and our Declutter Challenge Game concludes on January 31st. Ideas are in the works on ways we can continue this supportive community – stay tuned for future details.

I see a lot of books in my travels. Books on shelves, floors, countertops, beds, steps…get the picture? And I see many, many books sitting in Amazon boxes. If you are powerless over buying books, here are a few ideas to help you gain more control.

Just say no. Make a commitment to stop buying books for a set period of time. See how it feels.

Use the wish list feature. If you hear about a book that sounds good, add it to the wish list. You don’t have to buy a book the second you hear about it.

Every time you resist the urge to buy a book, stuff $5-$10 in a jar. You can decide what to do with the money later, but in the meantime, you’ll be saving up for something special.

Spend 5 minutes and find a book that you would be willing to donate to charity or to a friend. Imagine what your home could look like if you did this every week. In the Baltimore area, I’m a fan of the Maryland Book Bank and there’s also Better World Books with donation bins across the country.

If you bring a new book into your home, force yourself to get rid of at least the same number of books you brought in.

Try the free book apps like Libby where you can get best selling books for free (sometimes you have to wait a little while for the very popular ones). Best deal in town (but yes, you would have to get used to reading on your phone or electronic device instead of holding a book) and you would have your book with you wherever you and your phone are!

Got Stuff to Sell?

Let us eBay your items.

Howard is happy to speak with you about items you may want him to sell on eBay. Email eBay4lessclutter@gmail.com or call 443-255-8960.

“Helping Baby Boomers and their Parents Lighten their Loads”

If you are feeling overwhelmed by the amount of stuff in your home, contact me. Together, we can transform your home into a happy, tidy place where you can feel at peace. We can also get you ready for your next move… more enjoyably, faster and easier. We specialize in senior moves and helping families find new homes for the things they no longer have room to keep. We can also take care of clearing out homes that need to be listed quickly for resale. Contact me to schedule an appointment.