WRITTEN BY DIANE ROSS AUGUST 25, 2010
We all know we'd be better off without clutter. Some of us are born "clutterbugs" and some are born "neatniks". If you are in the first category or in between, here are some good reasons for and suggestions for getting organized.
From an organizational perspective, it is easier to function in a clutter free environment than a choatic one. Clutter in the extreme can be unsanitary and even a breeding ground for pests and vermin, not to mention dust. Feng Shui experts go even further and explain that clutter represents a blockage in your life. There is a tool used in Feng Shui called a bagua. It denotes which components of life, such as health, wealth and relationships correspond to specific areas of the home or office. If your clutter is concentrated in wealth, you are blocking money and abundance from coming into your life. Though this might seem a little "out there" to some, I have found it to be true in my practice. However, if you're still skeptical, just clearing the clutter to have a cleaner, healthier and more attractive enviornment should be enough.
Where to start? If you find yourself overwhelmed, start with one room, one drawer or one closet. As you clear out anything that has not been used in a year or more (yes that includes clothes in your closet) you will start to feel better. This cleaner area will inspire you to expand into other areas. If you have a cluttered bedroom, make space in one corner, decorate it with a FEW things you love. As you look at that area, think how nice it would be to have a whole home that is clutter free.
Many stores have beautiful storage containers. Try buying decorative containers and organize your closet or office. Make sure you label everything so things are easy to find.
Your computer counts too! Clear out your email. If something is on page 3 and you haven't read it by now, you're not going to. Check email often and take action or delete. Clear out your contact list as well.
If you are in a creative field, you may find while you're working that tools of your trade are scattered. This is sometimes necessary for the creative process. It is not considered clutter while you are working. However, clean up after you're done so you'll be able to locate everything when you're ready to start again.
Notice if there's a particular area where clutter collects. Consult a Feng Shui expert or a book on Feng Shui to see where it falls on the bagua and what area of your life it pertains to. Do you have a problem in that area of your ife? If so, it will be extra motivation to clear it up.
