Dear Friends,
Happy Fall to all!
I’d like to share with you a recent issue of Aim 4 Order’s “Tips and Tricks” – the Fall Issue is a bit longer than usual – but the list below is worth reviewing – and sharing – as it’s chock full of questions that can help you in your quest to declutter. This list was generated by a list serv that I am a member of through the National Association of Professional Organizers – so there is representation from many, many talented professionals. Let me know which question ‘spoke’ to you!
NOTE: Forgive me if this issue does not apply to you – most of the people I meet struggle with letting go of things – but if you do not, then perhaps you’ll share your secrets with us??
Questions to Ask When Decluttering
Is it useful and beautiful to me?
Is it a duplicate?
Is this the best place for it?
If I keep it, will I remember I have it?
If I remember I have it, will I be able to find it?
How am I going to display it? store it? use it?
Do I have room for it?
Do I need it or just want it or neither?
How long do I need to keep it?
When can I get rid of it?
Is it too worn/broken/unidentifiable?
Is the information still current?
Will I actually use it/refer to it?
When’s the last time I used it?
When do I think I will use it again (or for the first time) and what circumstances will have to be in place in order for me to use it?
Is this adding value to my life right now?
Can it easily be duplicated or created if needed again?
Can I borrow or purchase another one if needed?
What’s the worst that can happen if I toss it/donate it?
Will I really read it?
Am I really going to finish this quilt (or other project)? When?
For clothes:
Do I feel great in it?
Does it match anything?
Does it fit well?
Is this of high value or importance, or is it getting in the way of my ability to find what I need, when I need it?
Emotional Questions
Does it make me happy?
Does it make me unhappy to see it?
Does it make others unhappy to see it?
Do I love it?
Am I honoring and enjoying it?
Does it lift my spirits to look at it?
Where did it come from/who gave it to me?
Am I keeping it because someone gave it to me and I’ll feel guilty if I get rid of it?
If we took a picture of it, would that make it easier for you to let it go?
If you knew or visualized that someone else would really benefit from having this (for ex, if we found a great place to donate it?), would that make it easier for you to let it go?
Convince another person that you need to keep it.
When dealing with memorabilia:
Do I have anything else that reminds me of this (event, person, time)?
Am I putting things before people and relationships?
Financial/Legal Questions
Does it belong to me?
Am I legally required to keep it?
Is there a tax, or legal reason to keep it?
Will this help me make money?
Will this save me money?
Would I buy it again?
Does it take more time and effort to manage than it is worth?
If I was moving, would I want to pay to have it packed and moved?
What does it cost for me to keep, store and maintain it?
If I donate it, can I get a deduction?
If I sell it, what could I do with the money?
(These questions were compiled from members of the National Association of Professional Organizers’ list serve, 2008).
So – are you ready to get started? Pick a drawer, a tabletop, any space in the house….Just 15 minutes today? Go for it!
Holler if you need some extra support from Aim 4 Order. I would enjoy hearing from you.