Clutter Enemy #4 - CLOTHING!

Quote of the Month

“Things do not change, we change.”

Henry David Thoreau

In my line of work, I have the incredible gift of seeing people change before my very eyes. Their circumstances may not change, but the act of being willing to let go of the non-essentials have startling results. Letting go creates a lightness and a brightness that can truly open doors emotionally and physically. There is no greater joy than seeing the satisfaction and pride on a client’s face when they have faced their clutter and overcome the resistance.

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Clutter Enemy #4 – CLOTHING!

The Clutter Enemies that we have discussed over the past few months were:

#1 – BAGS

#2 – PAPER

#3 – INDECISION

And that brings us to today – #4 – CLOTHING! The picture above is an actual picture of a bedroom that was converted to a walk in closet. Unfortunately, the walk in closet became a dumping ground for the whole family. Thankfully, the story has a happy ending.

There are books written on downsizing clothing, but my style is to keep it short and sweet. Pretend you’re a stranger walking into your closet. Look up, look down – do you know what’s there? If you haven’t looked inside the bags and boxes in a few years, pull them down and acknowledge (to yourself) that you haven’t touched the stuff in forever and the lack of space in your closet is creating stress. By letting go of stuff, you’re letting go of stress. More stuff = more stress.

Now take a look at what’s hanging (or laying in piles). If the dust is visible, it needs to go. Even if it was your great grandmother’s vintage whatever, you haven’t worn it, you probably haven’t even seen it – it needs to go….if you don’t want to donate it to charity, maybe you can give it to a younger relative or neighbor.

If you are saving clothing for future grandchildren, guess what? You’ll be lucky if the future parents let you give them 1 or 2 vintage outfits… no way they’ll want a box or two or three of precious outfits from 30+ years ago. Really.

And as for graduation gowns and prom dresses that may come in handy for future dress-up/costume occasions – Bless someone else with a donation and if/when you need a costume, go to Goodwill and get something for $3-5. Your space is more important than holding on to old dusty, icky moth-attracting items.

If clothes no longer fit, move them out of your main closet. If you can’t donate them, at least pack some of them up for skinnier days and store them in a remote area.

If you have a lot of t-shirts that hold precious memories but you have no intention of wearing again, at least pack them up and store with your memorabilia. Don’t waste valuable closet space on things you don’t wear.

If you go to my Facebook page (www.facebook.com/aim4order), there’s a great article that gives more suggestions on getting rid of clothing. Check it out.

Aim 4 Order is Growing!

I am pleased to announce that my husband, Howard, is becoming more involved with Aim 4 Order. In the past few weeks, Howard has worked with my clients in the following capacity:

Helped one of my clients prepare her receipts/records for her accountant (Howard is a CPA who is wonderful with accountant-like tedious work).
Copied the information from several hard drives of older computers and removed computers and printers to recycle.
Ebayed a wide range of items (he’s a “Top Seller” on eBay).
Assisted in moving/hauling of items.

I am also thrilled to announce that we have several organizers who are working with Aim 4 Order clients and doing a fabulous job. We offer multi-tiered pricing and if you are interested, send me an email or call 410-484-8328.

“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!