It surprises me how often I engage with a new client and make fast progress simply by throwing things away and collecting various bags and boxes that have been sitting around waiting to be shuttled to a donation center. This is the easy stuff. Go for it! Start with these 3 steps – Walk-through, bin-up and drop-off. Easy as one – two – three!
Step One – Walk-through
Take some time to do a walk around the house to each room with 3 bags or boxes in hand – for recycle, donations and landfill. Pick up the stuff that’s easy and obvious. If you get stalled, skip it. Stick to the obvious and easy decisions, but don’t forget to be arrogant!
Step Two – Bin-Up
While you’re walking around, check if you have a trash bin in every room of the house, and a recycle bin in the active rooms, unless the room is super close to your main recycle bin. If you don’t, get some bins (see eco-tip below). Further, I recommend that in all bedrooms, playrooms and living rooms you also have a small bag or box for donation items. Every member of the family from age 5 up can learn the skill of letting things go when they don’t fit or aren’t used any longer. Make it easy for everyone in the household to get in the habit of using the donation bin.
Step Three – Drop-off
Finally, if you don’t already have one, identify a donation center that is conveniently within your regular every day route. Make a habit to visit and drop off there on a monthly or quarterly basis. It’s a feel good gift for you and for the center.
BONUS: Step One is an easy way to exercise your clutter decision-making muscle. Work it. Make decisions. You’ll feel better, I promise.
BONUS Eco-TIP: Re-purpose for your trash bins. An unused planter pot, large vase or umbrella stand can be a garbage bin. Or gift wrap a box or carton and use that. Perfect and eco-friendly, says Mom Earth.
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