To Have Or Not To Have Is The Question
/Time For Spring Cleaning
It's spring and that means it's time for spring cleaning and decluttering. Time to downsize, to get the cobwebs out of our closets and cupboards.
It's about finding the right balance between having things and not having things.
Some things we need.
Some things we need every day, while other things, we need once in awhile.
Some things sit in our closets and we don't need them at all, but for some reason they keep sitting there.
(Below: items ready for pick up for donation.)
Moving Is A Great Time To Declutter
Usually when faced with a move, we’re still working and we have what seems to be a million appointments as we rush off to the next assignment. Just too busy to be able to have enough time to sort through things.
Or, have you ever tossed things in a fit of "oh my god, I have too much stuff" only to regret it later because you actually do need it and then have to buy it again? Ouch.
Other times, we simply shake our head and think, "oh well, just pack it and move it" – with the plan to deal with it later.
Later Is Now
Well, here it is. Later is now and a move is coming. In addition, it’s spring and with it comes motivation for spring cleaning and decluttering.
If you have enough time before a move, you can calmly contemplate items and consider their purpose. Function can be a good criteria to keep something.
There are plenty enough items kept for their sentimental value. The debate consists of determining if sentimental value is strong enough to keep things despite a lack of functionality.
It's all about finding balance.
Time To Declutter
Even if you're not moving, the energy of spring may be motivating you to tidy up and downsize. One source of inspiration is Marie Kondo, the Japanese guru of decluttering. She is full of ideas about getting rid of the clutter and bringing organization to your life. Not only good for your home environment, but also good for your mind and spirit.
Kondo advocates that an important aspect of letting go is to acknowledge an item and say thank you for their energy in your life. Then, you accept that it's now time to say goodbye to it.
She holds that it's more in balance to honor things that have been in your life, even as you say goodbye, instead of tossing them with disdain.
“It is to be touched, thanked and ceremonially sent on its way towards a better life elsewhere, where it can discover a more appreciative owner.”
Japanese Style
Having lived in Japan for three years, I can certainly attest to the organization and tidiness of the Japanese culture. Everything has its place, neatly organized.
“If you haven’t communed with your socks lately, thanked your shoes for their hard work or bowed (at least mentally) to your home in appreciation, maybe it’s time to consider doing so.”
Spring is the perfect time to look around your home to see how you might tidy up, downsize and reorganize.
Perhaps you’re inspired to spring clean and declutter now that spring has sprung.
