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21 ClutterClarity Tips

1. Self First: We all have clutter. It's a matter of degree of how much and for how long. It's best to set an example by clearing your own clutter instead of fighting with others to clear theirs. If you live with a serious "clutterer," you may be asking them to do something they can not, and no one wants to fight.
2. 20% Rule: It often feels that everything will be difficult, yet you'll discover that it's easier than you think to make decisions about most of your stuff — keep, toss, donate, or sell. In truth, only 20% may be difficult. Start where it is easy, and put the difficult stuff to the side. You will gain momentum and clarity about what to do with the 20% as you make progress.
3. Find a Clutter-Clearing Companion: Instead of working with someone you live with, find a good friend who will not judge you. Have your companion hold each item so you can be less attached to it while you decide what to do.
4. "Putter Through Your Clutter": 15 minutes a day or a couple hours a week. You don't have to attack your clutter and get rid of it. Putter through your clutter and choose to let it go. Work in little bits. Work only until you begin to get tired or irritable, take a break or stop for the day, and return again when you feel better.
5. Have Bags on Hand: Have on hand large black, plastic bags for trash, smaller white bags for donations, and paper grocery bags for recycling.
6. Hold Off on Purchasing Containers: Clear out your clutter before you buy containers. You don't know what containers you will really need until after you clear out. You may not need them at all!
7. Time: Take fifteen minutes a day or 1-3 hours a week. It's best to pick the same day of the week and get into a routine. It gets easier as you build momentum and see steady progress. To prevent feeling overwhelmed, frustrated or too tired, do not work more than two hours without a break.
8. Trash: Regularly clear clutter the day before trash is picked up from your home or on the day to deliver trash to your local dump.
9. Pick a Non-Profit: Choose an organization that does work that you care about. Regularly clear clutter the day before it receives donations, and know what restrictions it has. Sometimes they'll even pick up your stuff for you.
10. Work Area: Set up an area large enough to spread things out so you can better see what you have. It's best set up outside of the room that's full of stuff. Take notice of any strain in your body, and make adjustments so you will be more comfortable while you work.
11. Motivation: Wanting to get rid of your clutter may get you started, but what will keep you going once things get better? What do you want more than your clutter? It's amazing what can come into your life when you make room: more comfort, a new partner, a new job, a vacation, or peace of mind. Sell clutter or save for something you really love or need now.
12. Buy a Shredder: Very satisfying! Buy one that fits onto of your trash can or comes with one. Set it up at waist level so that you don't have to bend over so much. Shred for a short period of time so you don't get bored.
13. Get a Timer: Pick a project you can finish in 15, 30 or 60-minutes — a drawer, a corner, or a box. Kids respond well to this, too.
14. No Phone: Do not answer the phone while you clear clutter!
15. Is It or Is It Not Clutter? Ask Yourself:
    • Do I love it, now? (not like a lot)
    • Do I use it now? (within a year)
    • Does it comfortably fit into my home? (If not...what can I let go of to make room?)
    • Does it fit into my current lifestyle? (family, work, friends, hobbies, etc.)
16. Your Not Yet Box: Put the stuff you are not sure about in a box, and date it. Put it to the side. Go through again after you have made some progress, and see if you can clear some more. If not, label it and store for 3-6 months. If you haven't touched it, pick it up, unopened, and give it away.
17. The Process is "Select, Cluster, Sort, Store":
    • Select an area to work in — a drawer, box, closet, corner.
    • Cluster like items together.
    • Sort through cluster and decide — toss, donate, recycle, sell or keep.
    • Store like items together in your new space.
18. If it's Not a Strong Yes, It's a No: Let go and keep what you really love and use now. If ambivalent, let it go or put it in your "Not Yet Box," and move on.
19. Feeling Overwhelmed: If overwhelmed, back off. You cannot make good decisions — decisions without regret. Being overwhelmed is a sign that you need help from someone who has learned how to clear clutter with comfort.
20. Selling Stuff: If you like being in front of a computer and are a detailed person, you may want to sell stuff via the internet on E-bay or Craig's list (local, customer can pick up stuff). Yard sales are good in the spring or fall. Both take more time then you think. Make sure it's worth it to you. Holding a house party for friends is fun way to sell your stuff.
21. Your Calendar: Clear your calendar of clutter to make the time to clear your clutter in your home.