It might seem counter-intuitive that as a retailer that sells home decor, I would want to help you get rid of things and de-clutter your life but I'm going to offer some tips to do just that today.
Here's my reasoning why; Obviously, based on the type of nature inspired, global style decor I carry in the Valerie Tyler Collection, I think home should be a place of refuge that reflects the beauty of the Earth. Your outer environment and that which you surround yourself with can soothe your inner state of being.
A cluttered home is quite the opposite of that. Being surrounded by belongings that stress you out, serve as distractions, and sometimes have the power to make you angry or sad are in no way helpful. I have an almost karmic belief that when you create space in your life, it allows you space to then refill it with only that which is important to you. You can focus in the future on making only purchases of things that truly make you happy and will stand the test of time. Think quality versus quantity. Find items which can be both functional and artistic, items that are made with beautiful materials, and collect only those things which bring you happiness.
Let's first analyze a few thoughts that might be holding you back. Have you ever thought any of the following?
Common Barriers to De-Cluttering
- I might need that someday
- I paid a lot of money for that
- I don't know how to get rid of this
- That's useful (even though I hate it)
- I don't want to waste that
To counter-attack several of these thoughts, It's important to put a value on your mental health and your time.
If you think "I might need that someday"
Remind yourself that if you hold on to everything because you *might* need it someday, the odds are good you will spend a lot of time looking for things
If you think "I paid a lot of money for that"
You need to realize that though you paid a lot of money for something, is it worth ANYTHING if you are not using it or enjoying it? There are two things you can do in this case. Think of whether you can sell it quickly and easily. Find a resale site and see if you can find it a new home. If you can't it's not worth nearly what you think it is and you might as well just donate it or give it away.
If you think "I don't know how to get rid of this"
Do a few quick google searches. Odds are good there is information about how to donate or toss almost any item you have. Most thrift stores will accept a large majority of household items. For other items, such as large furniture put them on a local site for free or a greatly discounted price. Check with your local municipality about what can be recycled and special trash days for large items and hazardous waste.
When you think "That's useful (even though I hate it)"
Why surround yourself with things you find ugly or hate using. Is something really that useful when it makes you unhappy every time you look at it or use it? Is there something else you can use instead of possibly a way to do without? Take the time to find something with the same functionality that you like much better.
If you think "I don't want to waste that"
Then give it away! Giving feels wonderful. Host a huge dinner party to use up extra food, or donate non-expired items to a food pantry. Make a dinner for a senior or single neighbor. Donate craft supplies or paper goods to schools or youth groups. Consider the impact to the environment an act accordingly. Recycle, donate or find someone else who can reuse it who would actually enjoy it.
Making your home your refuge is the EASY part. When you feel the urge to make a purchase or add something to your home always ask yourself whether the object makes your life better in some way. Does using it make your life easier, and you don't harbor any feelings of loathing towards the item? (Even if something makes your life easier, if you groan every time you look at it, just find something else to fulfill that items purpose) Does it make you happy to look at? Maybe it calms your spirit, causes you to remember something fondly, makes you laugh, or gets your creative juices flowing. Take the time to seek out lasting and quality goods. It often makes more financial sense to sometimes pay more for something that is more beautiful or of better quality because you continue to love it and use it versus buy many, poorer quality, less expensive substitutes that never quite make you happy.
Look for:
- Beauty / Character
- Quality
- Functionality
- Timeless Style
Keep these ideas in mind and avoid poor substitutes. A lot of times I think this is why vintage is getting to be so popular. The quality of goods has already been time tested, you can see whether the style has been timeless as well.
Items that are functional, well made and beautiful will stand the test of time.
So remember:
