HEALTH & HAPPINESS - To Clutter or De-Clutter, That is the Question....

HEALTH & HAPPINESS – To Clutter or De-Clutter, That Is the Question….
By Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design

July 2010

Isn’t it interesting how the simplest things in life can give you the greatest joy? Just imagine a kitten unrolling a ball of yarn; a baby’s first giggle; last year’s orchid bursting with new blooms. How about being greeted by a sparkling kitchen first thing in the morning, or a very organized office? You get the picture.

And, contrary to the good feelings, what are those little things in life that make you feel depressed, anxious and all knotted up?

Do you get up in the morning, and before you’ve had your first cup of coffee, you have such a headache, you can hardly wait to get dressed and leave the house? Clutter, clutter, everywhere clutter. You find you’re having difficulty breathing. This is so unhealthy. You can never find exactly what you’re looking for, whether it’s a piece of clothing, or a file folder, or the teenager’s new Nikes. Once you and your home are organized, you’ll stop wasting time looking for things. You realize you need space in your home and in your life.

Everyone has heard about purging closets, and the old rule. If you haven’t worn something in a year or two, get rid of it. If you haven’t referred to paperwork in ten years, toss it. Purging your belongings, however, is not as easy as it may sound. Emotions are involved, and yes, you can hire someone to come in and take care of it, but you will be part of the process. No one knows your closets, or kitchen, or office the way you do; no one else has the attachment to your “things” the way you do.

So, what do you do with the “stuff” that is cluttering not only your home, but your life?

Give yourself a deadline for each room and each project that needs to be de-cluttered. Which areas of your home accumulate clutter?

Linen closets; purses; briefcases; bookcases; garages; garden tools; family rooms; bathrooms; home offices; kitchens; bedrooms; toy boxes.

Before you begin the task, and for the sake of time management, I would suggest you maintain a daily to-do list. Prepare at least three large boxes and label them: 1) Junk; 2) Donate; 3) Keep.

Whatever room you begin with, or whatever drawer you begin with, remove everything from the area. Empty closets and drawers. Toss out everything that is broken or beyond repair. You haven’t used it in ages; you didn’t even remember it was there, get rid of it. When trying to decide whether you should junk, donate or keep, ask yourself:
a) Do I really love this; or need this item
b) Will I benefit from keeping it; or shall I toss it
c) Most importantly – when is the last time I used this.

Categorize the items in your home that need a permanent place so you’ll know where to find them, like buttons, special edition magazines, and batteries (usually in the refrigerator).

What about the hubby’s closet. This is the most difficult because so many men are like pack rats. Don’t you dare throw out those jeans. They fit him 10 years ago, and yes, he’ll get back into them one day soon. As styles change, so do our shapes, and even though he may get back to the same size, he may not be the same shape. So, “Hubby, get over it.” We’re de-cluttering today. And again, there are many charities who would love to swing by and pick up the jeans, jackets, sweatshirts and shoes.

Another suggestion which I highly recommend is to “throw something out every day.” Just one thing…toss it or give it to a consignment store. This is a particularly good idea when you’re out shopping, either for yourself, or any family member, or even a new gadget for the kitchen. After all, how many garlic presses does one need!! Before you decide to buy something, think about where it will go and what it is going to replace.

Have you ever given any thought to what else may be causing you so much stress? Do you have friends who pop in on you unexpectedly and hang around half the day? Neighbors who are always depending on you to pick up the kids without reciprocating? The kids haven’t picked up on their responsibilities of tidying up, or taking out the trash, etc. Then, it’s time to have a chit chat with your friends and neighbors and children, and clear your mind. We are de-cluttering, after all.

I have also found that some homes have too much furniture. The couple has inherited Aunt Alice’s breakfront; Uncle Sam’s lazy-boy, etc. The area is claustrophobic and dizzying. Take some time to analyze the situation. If there are some pieces that are causing you stress, then I suggest you streamline your furnishings.

As a designer I take great pride in assisting my clients as they simplify their homes. In many instances I have worked with them and know their likes and dislikes; I know what makes them happy and what makes them fretful. As a designer I can visualize a room before it has been purged and make recommendations for bookshelves or adding space to closets; clearing spaces to accommodate files and file boxes; hanging artwork; designing bathrooms and kitchens for additional space.

A home without clutter is cathartic. You start the day with a smile, and you start the day so, so, so happy. I would consider hiring a designer or professional organizer to help with this major task. The cost will be worth it, and, most of all, it will help you maintain good health. Splendid.

I hope this has been helpful. I wish you good health and happiness.

Myrna Simon, Designer
Alicia Friedmann Interior Design