Decluttering can be a chore, but there are a lot of techniques out there to make it as stress-free as possible. The key is to find the one that works best for your needs at the time. The next time you need to declutter try one of these four popular methods to make the task a breeze.
KonMari Method
This method, created by organization expert Marie Kondo, is all about embracing minimalism and keeping your life more simplified. Knowing that it can be hard to let go of your belongings, Kondo suggests that you only keep items that truly “spark joy” within your home. That sweater you keep because it fits–even though you know you never wear it? You can say thank you for your service and let go of the item with the KonMari method.
10/10/10 Rule
Created by business writer Suzy Welch, the 10-10-10 rule says that before making any decision, ask yourself three questions: ‘How will I feel about it 10 minutes from now? How about 10 weeks from now? How about 10 years from now?’ While this can be an important exercise for big goals and life decisions like in business and finance, it can offer a grounding frame of reference for your clutter. Asking these forward-thinking questions can help you rationally address sentimental clutter.
The Four-Box Method
When you have time to declutter a project instead of a long-term goal, use the four-box method when going through a large space. Simply use four boxes and label them with “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash.” This is a great method for closet or container organization since you will need to take all the items out to reorganize anyway.
The Closet Hanger Method
Many people have clothes they don’t wear or love. Few realize how little they wear the clothing they own. If you have a closet full of clothes you’d like to go through, hang all your clothes with the hangers facing backward. Each time you wear an item, return it to the hanger correctly. After a six-month period, donate any clothes still hanging with the hanger backward. Keep in mind that depending on your climate, this project could last year-round. If it is summer, you naturally may not use your winter gear, but that won’t be a true indicator of its usefulness to you.
