Downsizing + EmotionsI would be remiss if I didn't mention the emotional journey for this next client. We'll call her "Jo." Jo moved back in with her mom after her dad died, to be a support for her and also as a resting place for herself. She was suffering from mild depression and anxiety, and though she maintained a full-time, high demand job for the city, she was getting overwhelmed. Spending time on her health, her mother, and her work lead to an unchecked living situation that was no longer tenable for Jo.
What happened?
Enter Tidy Fairy!We focused this session on decluttering her clothing category, which led us to clear her closet and drawers. We believe in using bedroom closets mainly for clothes, and had a goal of dismantling the freestanding garment rack. Before Closet After Closet   That Before Again... After! |
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Her smile is our favorite part!
Do you need a tidy? Send us an email at tidyfairyla@gmail.com!
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Let's Revisit the Goals
On January 2nd of this year I made a new goal for myself. A shopping hiatus. No more new consumer purchases that could be avoided, with the goal of saving money but also expanding my horizons, spending more in the local economy instead, and being grateful for what I have.
NOT ALLOWED TO BUY:
ALLOWED:
SPECIFIC EXCEPTIONS for MUST HAVES:
Wow. That's pretty shocking. Out of six "must haves", only one was!
- shoes
- clothes
- purses or bags
- jewelry
- plants or planters
- home goods like rugs, blankets, pillows, kitchen implements etc.
- books
- electronics
- gifts to others should be non-consumer goods
ALLOWED:
- Refilling toiletries/beeswax candles/essential oils
- Fresh flowers
- Replacements (must throw out the old one to qualify)
- Safety Gear
SPECIFIC EXCEPTIONS for MUST HAVES:
- curtains for my bedroom - got those
- anti-fatigue mat for the kitchen - have not purchased
- LA Dodgers cap - have not purchased
- An extra pair of THINX - have not purchased yet
- Display easel for a painting- have not purchased, don't need anymore
- A pair of flat black boots or flats - have not purchased/needed
Wow. That's pretty shocking. Out of six "must haves", only one was!
Examining My Habits
I never thought I was a shopper.
"Shoppers," I thought, are women who get all dressed up to go to the mall, who have fifteen pairs of high heels and credit card debt. Shoppers are people who ENJOY going to stores, who love the browse, to try things on and see what's out there.
Shopping gives me anxiety. I go in for something and the sheer content of the store overwhelms me. As someone who thinks outside the box, I not only see an item, I see the alternative use for an item. IKEA is like a sea of ideas, furniture and decor bobbing in the waves. The mall is - forget it. My shoulders get tight just thinking about it. That's not me, so I'm not a shopper...right?
I don't enjoy the act of shopping. But it turns out I do enjoy...having shopped. (eeeeek)
It turns out that I enjoy:
It turns out that I enjoy having exactly what I need, getting a good deal, showing off that good deal and admiring it as a puzzle piece - whether it's to complete a room or to complete an outfit.
I like the feeling of completion when it's done.
As a result, I am not a woman who could make a Christmas or birthday list easily because I always just bought myself what I wanted, "within reason". But "within reason" is not reasonable if I don't need it! Within reason adds up, and takes resources (time and money) away from other experiences.
The hunt might make me anxious, but...
I am Marlane Deanne and I am a shopper!
"Shoppers," I thought, are women who get all dressed up to go to the mall, who have fifteen pairs of high heels and credit card debt. Shoppers are people who ENJOY going to stores, who love the browse, to try things on and see what's out there.
Shopping gives me anxiety. I go in for something and the sheer content of the store overwhelms me. As someone who thinks outside the box, I not only see an item, I see the alternative use for an item. IKEA is like a sea of ideas, furniture and decor bobbing in the waves. The mall is - forget it. My shoulders get tight just thinking about it. That's not me, so I'm not a shopper...right?
I don't enjoy the act of shopping. But it turns out I do enjoy...having shopped. (eeeeek)
It turns out that I enjoy:
- Popping into a thrift store to kill time. Looking at sweaters. Even though I live in California.
- Going to World Market to get a specific bowl that... I guess...I really do need?!
- Finding JUST THE RIGHT rug for the bathroom and getting home and seeing it in place! And then peeking at it later to see how cute it looks! Putting my feet on it!
- New summer sandals. It's summer! You have to have new summer sandals, right?
- GEAR - I have to have just the right thing for an occasion. I am very loathe to make do as I may have in the past.
- REPLACEMENTS - As soon as something breaks or wears out or even just has a bad association, like an ex-boyfriend, it is gone and THEN I REPLACE IT. I don't even wait around to see if the universe might gift me with something!
It turns out that I enjoy having exactly what I need, getting a good deal, showing off that good deal and admiring it as a puzzle piece - whether it's to complete a room or to complete an outfit.
I like the feeling of completion when it's done.
As a result, I am not a woman who could make a Christmas or birthday list easily because I always just bought myself what I wanted, "within reason". But "within reason" is not reasonable if I don't need it! Within reason adds up, and takes resources (time and money) away from other experiences.
The hunt might make me anxious, but...
I am Marlane Deanne and I am a shopper!
The Moment of Truth
Now, post "No Shop" I have moments when I want to buy something and I listen to myself give a million good reasons why. This reckoning I am calling The Moment of Truth. I am learning to look at myself and say, Oh really miss? Is there not a work-around for this? You just HAVE to go to the store to get the thing?
(I've noticed I say I have to "get" or "pick up" or "find" something, but I rarely use the more accurate word, BUY.)
(I've noticed I say I have to "get" or "pick up" or "find" something, but I rarely use the more accurate word, BUY.)
Fail fail fail and fail some more...learn?
Im not perfect, let's have a parade! I've bought some off-limits things these past six months! Some of them, I returned them out of guilt. What a waste of time. I have also bought things I simply MUST HAVE and I clutched them like Gollum. I'm not going to lie - this part has been a little fun and a little terrible.
So what's the damage, Heather. (Marlane)
- I have taken plants and plant accessories off the list of things I cannot buy, so I can buy them. ( This is the danger of being an adult. I make the rules. I can break them. ) This means I have bought two plant stands and hanging hooks and pots and plenty of plants themselves. I decided this was okay, because gardening is an activity that is good for soothing my brain, which I consider good for my health. So if I reclassify it as a health purchase I am happy (Yes, I see how this could become a slippery slope!)
- I have used the excuse of photographing my apartment for submission to Apartment Therapy as a reason to buy things not previously approved, like a bathroom rug and three new towels to replace my ratty ones. Considering how insane I could go on this front, I'm seeing this still as a win.
- I have bought new sheets I didn't need and then watched myself not need them. Learning. Experience.
- I wanted two additional bed pillows - so I made them from raw sheep wool I ordered from a farm in Montana. I refuse to call this a fail.
- I have bought a rug for the bathroom, already a concession, and when it didn't work out in the bathroom I STILL didn't return it, but instead put it somewhere else. Oops.
- I have bought new summer sandals. Well. I love those sandals. F*ck off.
- I bought a new ski jacket at a thrift store for $7.00 bc I realized my old one reminded me of an ex-boyfriend, so I called it a "replacement" and got rid of the old one. Fine. But I didn't go skiing this year. Again.
- I bought a fascinator to wear to my Royal Wedding Tea. I don't regret that.
- I bought a birthday dress. Ok two birthday dresses. And a top - but I got them secondhand!
- I bought a hammock for my birthday. It's my birthday. You want to take me on about my birthday?
Amazing New Habits
Even with all these so called failures, I have been learning a lot, and managing not to buy a lot and also...
I have started making ART.
In the six months that I have been attempting not to shop, I have given art as gifts instead. In order to facilitate this, I have added ART SUPPLIES to the list of approved purchases.
This has been such a huge step for me. It means I am drawing more than ever, actually using my art supplies, and learning new techniques, like watercolor. It's also soothing for my brain, it makes me feel good, it makes my friends feel special to get something made for them, and it's FREE. Well, the frames and art supplies are not, but seeing how many pieces of art I can make with one set of supplies, it is negligible. Here are a few more of the pieces!
In the six months that I have been attempting not to shop, I have given art as gifts instead. In order to facilitate this, I have added ART SUPPLIES to the list of approved purchases.
This has been such a huge step for me. It means I am drawing more than ever, actually using my art supplies, and learning new techniques, like watercolor. It's also soothing for my brain, it makes me feel good, it makes my friends feel special to get something made for them, and it's FREE. Well, the frames and art supplies are not, but seeing how many pieces of art I can make with one set of supplies, it is negligible. Here are a few more of the pieces!
Sure, not everyone wants a drawing. I have bought consumer presents from Amazon for my dad and brothers. They live far away, it's just easier!
Amazing New Gifts to ME
Because of this challenge, I have an improved relationship to receiving gifts. I am now VERY excited to receive something new. New things! New Things! AND I have gotten some art in return!
This is an illustration by Sally Nixon, from my home state of Arkansas, that I got from a friend for my birthday. I allowed myself to buy a matte and frame for it :)
My friend Angela also gave me a pair of boots just because!
Happy to Make a Return!
I was already pretty good about not accepting anything less than joy from my purchases since I did The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up with Ms. Marie Kondo. But NOW? If something is not PERFECT it is going BACK because I cannot even with that now.
Redefining Fun
I realized that working on my home - finding the perfect rug or the perfect chair or arranging the who-jima-gadget has been my idea of active fun. Next on the list is coming up with a perfect outfit! It's quiet time I have with myself where I get to turn off my brain from serious concerns and spend an afternoon exploring and at the end of it, I have something to show. It's a way to exert a little bit of control over the material world, which is comforting when so much of life is, frankly, out of control.
Don't even get me started on the political outlook rn amright.
But I don't want so much of my fun and calm to come from interactions with the material/consumer world. It's totally unnecessary and I'm missing out!
Don't even get me started on the political outlook rn amright.
But I don't want so much of my fun and calm to come from interactions with the material/consumer world. It's totally unnecessary and I'm missing out!
Workarounds I Have Found So Far
Some of this is stuff I was already doing, but have leaned into. Some of it is totally new!
- Camping/Hiking - I took my first camping trip this summer and have made an effort to go to Griffith Park for walks. I don't have to have something "to show for" a time well spent, fellow Americans!
- Art/Crafts - But for when I DO want something to show! This is great! I also made an herb wreath recently! The supplies are allowed, and the reward mentally has been huge.
- Clothing Swaps - I cannot recommend these enough for injecting some variety into the wardrobe. They are social, which is so much better than shopping (which I personally do alone). For some cookies and a fruit plate I have an afternoon filled with ladies and a grocery bag full of new-to-me clothes! Luckily I already had these events in place when I started "No Buy" - it has made the no clothing a no brainer.
- Book Swaps - These have been even easier! A meet up at a coffee shop with acquaintances has been a great opportunity to talk books with people I wouldn't normally see, and get a few new ones to read at my leisure!
- Library/Kindle - Did you know you can check out books through your local library for your Kindle or E-reader? The Los Angeles Public Library has basically every book I could ever want to read, at a moment's notice. I also love going in to browse.
- Movies - I know it might not last forever, but Movie Pass has been a huge win for me. I live walking distance from a theatre, so now whenever I am feeling restless and need to get out of the house, I go for a walk that ends with a movie! I've been seeing things I normally would not have tried. I've also made a bigger effort to look up lists of "Best Movies on Netflix" and check those out.
- Beach/Pool Days - Not everyone is lucky enough to be an hour from the beach, but I have made a greater effort to take those free days when I could be spinning my wheels, and drive to the coast. I've also discovered "lap swim" hours at my local pool, so I can get in before the kids arrive.
Gratitude
I don't want to get cheesy on you, but being grateful for my home and belongings - just the way they are - has helped me a lot from feeling like I need to buy something new. Look what I've already done! In the last six months I've just enjoyed what is there and it has been a wonderful reset of the hedonic treadmill, that keeps us wanting always more!
I would love your suggestions!
Do you have fun ways of avoiding consumer expenses when it comes to fun? Have you tried a "no buy" situation yourself? Comment here, or on our Instagram @tidyfairyla or on our Facebook page! We also respond to email at tidyfairyla@gmail.com
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Heather and I were stoked to tidy for a good friend and woman about town, Liz. She has two kids, so in addition to her own things, many family items had been delegated to her personal space. Since we were only doing her closet for the day, we needed to work within the limits of keeping those items stored in her closet, with the goal of preventing them from having such an impact.
Liz's stated goal was to stop feeling that her closet was "falling down around" her.
Liz's stated goal was to stop feeling that her closet was "falling down around" her.
Before...
 Bins stored high and haphazardly made Liz feel that something might fall on her! Not relaxing! |  Bins down low were underfoot |
Liz had already cleared the space directly above her head bc she couldn't stand having things stored there.
Liz had her clothes pretty well decluttered, but it turns out jewelry was the category that got the best of her!
(Everyone has something!)
During...
Every little thing counts! Our concentrated way of decluttering left us with empty bins! Hurrah! The goal in a full-house declutter would be to save the bins and use them in other areas of the house.
SO many bins she ended up not needing after the declutter!
After!
Much better!
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We were able to reorganize everything so that the storage is much more pleasing to the eye, all using bins that Liz already had. There was even space to create a gallery wall with her children's art!
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We also pared down her jewelry enough that everything she owns, she would at some point like to wear! I took a leap of faith and broke apart one jewelry tray, fitting it into her antique dresser top, which was designed for this purpose!
Closet Woes?
Now Liz has a closet that feels more like a dream than a nightmare ;) Do you have a closet that is giving you the creeps? We'd love to hear about it!
Comment here or check us out on Facebook and Instagram!
Or give us a call! Text or leave a message with 323-736-2594!
We can also be reached at tidyfairyla@gmail.com
Comment here or check us out on Facebook and Instagram!
Or give us a call! Text or leave a message with 323-736-2594!
We can also be reached at tidyfairyla@gmail.com
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The Challenge:
Happy New Year friends! This year I am putting my minimalism to the test and challenging myself to no shopping. For me, no shopping is defined by not buying:
ETC! And one of the toughest ones...
- shoes
- clothes
- purses or bags
- jewelry
- plants or planters
- home goods like rugs, blankets, pillows, kitchen implements etc.
- books
- electronics
ETC! And one of the toughest ones...
- gifts to others should be non-consumer goods
The Benefits:
I believe this will be great for many reasons:
- Shopping actually kind of stresses me out
- Resources can be redirected to experiences, which are said to bring more joy than consumer goods
- I will be supporting the local economy by potentially spending more in the service industry instead of consumer goods that are often made overseas
- I will learn more about abundance and the idea that I already have everything I need
- I will lean more on my community as I may need to borrow things
- I will probably save money
- I will form more mindful shopping habits
- I will hopefully learn new things about myself and the world!
General Exceptions:
- Replacing anything that breaks and really needs replacing. This should be done by buying second-hand if possible
- Refilling toiletries
- Fresh flowers (i consider these a grey area, they are plants but not houseplants and they are not food)
- Beeswax candles and essential oils for them
- Safety gear, if it is not possible to borrow
Specific Exceptions:
I have made a list of exceptions, collected over a two month period. These are 6 items that I already know I want, but I didn't want to rush to buy them before this started. They are:
- curtains for my bedroom (final frontier on finishing my apartment)
- anti-fatigue mat for the kitchen (i consider this a health purchase)
- LA Dodgers cap (I don't have a cap that works with my capsule wardrobe and plus I want to go to at least one game this year and have more LA pride!)
- An extra pair of THINX (i just have one that I use occasionally, but would like to use more often - I consider this a toiletry)
- Display easel for a painting (this painting was a gift and needs a safe display place)
- A pair of flat black boots or flats (for work)
Totally Acceptable Ways to Deal:
- borrow
- swap
- repair
- make do without!
- ask for specific things during typical gift times (birthday & Christmas)
Flexibility Caveat
I love challenges like this - my personality lends itself to buckling down and trying to figure out a way around a restriction. I flourish in these kinds of settings and they mostly work for me. But if I find myself in undue stress in order to stick to this, I will be gentle with myself, buy the thing - and then use the moment as a moment of learning.
Talk to me!
Have you ever tried something like this before? Are you inspired to do this with me? Tell me about it on our Facebook page, or on Instagram (@TidyFairyLA)!
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In California we don't get big temperature changes, so I have felt more compelled than ever to have my surroundings reflect the season. This is different than holiday decorating for me. It's more about feeling clean and released for Spring/Summer and cozy and comfortable for Fall/Winter. Here are some ways you can do that without breaking the bank.
Do Rotations
Now that I have less stuff, I have more than enough space in cabinets for a seasonal item or two. One of the easiest rotations I have done this year is with my statement color dishtowels. I COULD use all of them all year round, but having a season for them has been really enjoyable! They are also super reasonable in terms of storage space when not in use.
Not all of my dishtowels suggest a season, but these are the ones that do.
Not all of my dishtowels suggest a season, but these are the ones that do.
 Spring/Summer |  Fall/Winter |
Repurpose a scarf or other textile
Scarves and blankets can be repurposed during the fall/winter to drape over furniture - tables, backs of couches, arms of chairs - and give them a cozy feel. Best of all, they can easily be thrown in the wash.
 Pop of color on this meditation table is clean and cool in Spring/Summer  Patio chair in Spring/Summer |  But it's fun to get cozy with draping in Fall/Winter  Can seat extra guests inside with a blanket drape in Fall/Winter |
Remove Something
We always feel tempted to fill that empty space, right? But sometimes removing one seasonal item doesn't mean you have to replace it with something else. Here, I removed this pink pillow that is very spring/summer to me, and filled the space by rearranging the remaining pillows.
Around Christmas, I may put a holiday pillow in the middle, but in the meantime no one is gonna die.
Around Christmas, I may put a holiday pillow in the middle, but in the meantime no one is gonna die.
 |  Bringing blankets out of their summer hiding spots really adds coziness! |
Add a Little Rug
With the exception of the sheepskin above and another tiny one for meditating, I don't have a lot of rugs in my home. I just don't like cleaning them. I even keep my bathmat slung over the tub. I don't live in a cold climate, it's fine. I made a decision pretty early on that they aren't important to me.
HOWEVER, World Market et al have very cute 2x3 rag rugs for $17 and they can easily be thrown in a cold washing machine. You can place them in about a million different ways to bring warmth and color to a room.
HOWEVER, World Market et al have very cute 2x3 rag rugs for $17 and they can easily be thrown in a cold washing machine. You can place them in about a million different ways to bring warmth and color to a room.
 No rug, that's fine  If you choose a natural fiber rug, it's absorbent enough to use in place of a bathmat. Fun! Cozy!  On the balcony! Fun! Cozy! |  Rug! Fun! Cozy!  By your bed! Fun! Cozy!  Layered under another rug! I actually recommend using two side by side for this purpose. |
Consider the rest of your environment
I would feel lax as an anti-consumerist if I didn't list other ways to enjoy the seasons! These are all a part of the environment but are disposable.
- Decorate with seasonal flowers both cut and potted- Chrysanthemums! poinsettias!
- Eat seasonal fruits and veggies - Persimmons! figs! yams!
- Smell new scents - Add a cinnamon or pine essential oil to your diffuser or simmer rosemary and orange on the stove (You'll always get the natural suggestion first from me, but there's also Yankee Candle!)
Gorgeous simmer by Seventh Generation on Instagram
What's your magic?
Tell us about your seasonal traditions on the Instagram @tidyfairyla or go to our page on Facebook to share your own tips and tricks!
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Declutter Even If It Sparks Joy - I try this tip and others from "Goodbye, Things" by Fumio Sasaki
8/26/2017
A couple of years ago I read Marie Kondo's "The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up" and it truly did change my life. She is the gold standard for these books for a reason. She makes minimalism simple and relatable. Does the item "spark joy"? If so keep it, if not get rid of it!
It is even a minimal process!
Goodbye, Things by Fumio Sasaki takes things a step further, saying even if something DOES bring you joy, chuck it anyway lol. He is all about focusing on experiences, not items. He argues that items have outgrown their welcome.
Here are my favorite takeaways from his journey! All the quotes are from the book.
It is even a minimal process!
Goodbye, Things by Fumio Sasaki takes things a step further, saying even if something DOES bring you joy, chuck it anyway lol. He is all about focusing on experiences, not items. He argues that items have outgrown their welcome.
Here are my favorite takeaways from his journey! All the quotes are from the book.
1. We don't have the mental capacity for our stuff
"I used to be a slow computer where you'd see the loading icon spinning on the screen for what seemed like an eternity...I lived in fear of my future, constantly worrying about my career and how others saw me."
I have often thought this. Our brains are 5,000 year old computers, and we can only keep track of so much. The more stuff we have, the more likely we are going to short circuit trying to manage it all. And the more fear we have about being able to manage it all in the future! What stress! Even if something sparks all the joy in the world - is it serving who you are today?
I have often thought this. Our brains are 5,000 year old computers, and we can only keep track of so much. The more stuff we have, the more likely we are going to short circuit trying to manage it all. And the more fear we have about being able to manage it all in the future! What stress! Even if something sparks all the joy in the world - is it serving who you are today?
2. Your stuff owns you
"I suspect that when we're feeling lazy or unmotivated, it's either because our to-do list is too long or we're surrounded by so many menial tasks that we can't get around to doing what's important."
He mentions how the things in our space talk to us.
You see a sculpture, it says "Dust me," you see a blanket it says "Wash me," you see a fancy dress in the closet it says "Why don't you ever wear me?"
And this goes on and on, wearing us out!
He mentions how the things in our space talk to us.
You see a sculpture, it says "Dust me," you see a blanket it says "Wash me," you see a fancy dress in the closet it says "Why don't you ever wear me?"
And this goes on and on, wearing us out!
3. A lot of your stuff is for other people
I am fortunate to live alone right now. So all of my stuff technically BELONGS to me. No confusion there. But how much of it is still FOR other people?
Sasaki points out :
"My feeling is that minimalists are people who know what's truly necessary for them versus what they may want for the sake of appearance, and they're not afraid to cut down on everything in the second category."
I'll say that again.
For the sake of appearance.
So much of decluttering is about being honest with yourself. What do I want for me? Am I keeping my dining room table so my house will look a certain way to others, or do I really want it??
Sasaki points out :
"My feeling is that minimalists are people who know what's truly necessary for them versus what they may want for the sake of appearance, and they're not afraid to cut down on everything in the second category."
I'll say that again.
For the sake of appearance.
So much of decluttering is about being honest with yourself. What do I want for me? Am I keeping my dining room table so my house will look a certain way to others, or do I really want it??
4. Your stuff might be making you fat
"Many others have observed this effect by observing that when the things that have been stuck around you begin to move, your chi - the life force that flows through everything - will flow better and you will also slim down."
The idea that minimalism can lead to weight loss is one I have seen in more than one minimalist writing. Sasaki reports that he lost 22 lbs in his own journey from maximalist to minimalist. I can't help but notice that since I have started decluttering I HAVE found my ideal weight. And I am staying there with little to no effort.
I am going to attribute this to a few things:
But I also love his esoteric energy-centric view of it. When you (and your ancient brain) are literally holding onto things all the time, afraid to let go, it seems possible to me that we are unconsciously holding onto a lot more than things. We are locked in, holding onto bad habits as well, which could pertain to eating.
And more than that, we know that stress literally affects our metabolisms. Could it be the stress is not from your job or your family or your bad hair day, but from all the things in your way all day?
This is not something I have the answer to, but it is interesting all the same!
The idea that minimalism can lead to weight loss is one I have seen in more than one minimalist writing. Sasaki reports that he lost 22 lbs in his own journey from maximalist to minimalist. I can't help but notice that since I have started decluttering I HAVE found my ideal weight. And I am staying there with little to no effort.
I am going to attribute this to a few things:
- I have more calm and ease around food preparation, since it is now so easy to do. There is nothing cluttering my kitchen. It's easy to batch cook yummy stews and soups to have on hand instead of eating out.
- I have a well-organized fridge, which makes it easier to see the fresh fruits and vegetables waiting to be eaten, and they look more appetizing.
- I love my cooking supplies, so I like to use them.
- I love my dishes, so I like to eat off them.
- I also love my apartment, so I like to be in it! I am not escaping constantly, unable to deal with being in my own house during meals.
- Snack packaging is ugly and honestly doesn't appeal to me anymore. It's almost embarrassing to admit that I just don't want it around.
But I also love his esoteric energy-centric view of it. When you (and your ancient brain) are literally holding onto things all the time, afraid to let go, it seems possible to me that we are unconsciously holding onto a lot more than things. We are locked in, holding onto bad habits as well, which could pertain to eating.
And more than that, we know that stress literally affects our metabolisms. Could it be the stress is not from your job or your family or your bad hair day, but from all the things in your way all day?
This is not something I have the answer to, but it is interesting all the same!
5. Less stuff means less fighting
"The more material possessions you have, the more energy you need to handle your everyday household chores. You become stressed, then frustrated, and you're likely to want to blame those who aren't eager to help out."
I agree with him so much! Next to money (which is often spent on things!), chores around the house can be one of the biggest sources of friction between couples. While everyone needs to be doing their fair share, what if there was less to do in general?
It's just a fact that the less you have, the more space you have for everything to have a specific home. When things have a specific home, the house doesn't get cluttered as long as everyone returns the item they just used.
Which is easier to do now because it has a real, unobstructed home!
Now all you have to do is vacuum relatively uncluttered floors and wipe down cleared countertops.
So much simpler!
I agree with him so much! Next to money (which is often spent on things!), chores around the house can be one of the biggest sources of friction between couples. While everyone needs to be doing their fair share, what if there was less to do in general?
It's just a fact that the less you have, the more space you have for everything to have a specific home. When things have a specific home, the house doesn't get cluttered as long as everyone returns the item they just used.
Which is easier to do now because it has a real, unobstructed home!
Now all you have to do is vacuum relatively uncluttered floors and wipe down cleared countertops.
So much simpler!
Postscript: My Own Declutter!
I was inspired by the book and tried using Sasaki's idea that EVEN IF something sparks joy, what if you just don't need it? Actually?? This led to the deepest decluttering I have ever done.
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I puttered around decluttering with the aim of really reducing for about a week and ended up discarding a lot! About 2-5 items from every category really adds up. Can you imagine all of this was just in the way!!!
Some of these things don't spark joy anymore, but some do. They just don't serve me as much as they could. I have started putting higher scrutiny (to borrow a term from the Supreme Court lol) on what gets to be in my living space.
Some of these things don't spark joy anymore, but some do. They just don't serve me as much as they could. I have started putting higher scrutiny (to borrow a term from the Supreme Court lol) on what gets to be in my living space.
Even if it sparks joy!
One example of something I discarded despite it sparking joy is this antique typewriter. It still sparks joy to see it, BUT it doesn't work, and when I bought it I thought it would. Also, it is taking up space where I could display my record player, which I would actually use if I could see it! My 5,000 year old brain cannot remember to play records if I can't see the player!
Talk to us!
Do you have just too much stuff to do the things you want to do? Are you willing to let go of something that sparks joy?? Let us know what you parted with on Instagram @tidyfairyla or follow our page on Facebook for scintillating conversation on tidying ;)
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What do we want? Only what we love and need!
photo: Kosher on a Budget "How We Cut Our Moving Expenses in Half - And You Can Too!" How do we get there? A multitude of ways!
We here at Tidy Fairy want freedom from the tyranny of things. We want homes that make us feel relaxed and inspired. We want room to dig into creativity. We want less time spent doing chores. We want less debt, and less mindless shopping. And most importantly, we want more joy!
Obviously, we are very much inspired by Marie Kondo and her KonMari Method, but there are tons of fun ways to get started on the path to minimalism/joyism. The Minimalists came up with a great method called the Packing Party, and seeing as I'm helping my brother move, I thought this was the perfect time to learn about it and try it out!
We here at Tidy Fairy want freedom from the tyranny of things. We want homes that make us feel relaxed and inspired. We want room to dig into creativity. We want less time spent doing chores. We want less debt, and less mindless shopping. And most importantly, we want more joy!
Obviously, we are very much inspired by Marie Kondo and her KonMari Method, but there are tons of fun ways to get started on the path to minimalism/joyism. The Minimalists came up with a great method called the Packing Party, and seeing as I'm helping my brother move, I thought this was the perfect time to learn about it and try it out!
The method is simple:
1) pack your stuff up like you're moving.
2) only take out the things you need as you need them.
3)at the end of a month, donate what's left in the boxes.
Of course, simple doesn't necessarily mean easy! If you've ever moved before, you know how labor intensive just putting your things into boxes can be! That makes this particular method most practical to use if you are actually moving (like my brother), or if you are looking to take a deep dive into becoming a minimalist, like the creator, Ryan Nicodemus, was.
However, you can still play this game even if you aren't moving! Just pick a room, storage area, or category (like kids toys) to try this method for yourself.
Personally, I'm going to have a Packing Party for my toiletries. I have about 15gazillion too many magical products and potions, and I know I could be using that space better. I'll share updates on how that goes!
However, you can still play this game even if you aren't moving! Just pick a room, storage area, or category (like kids toys) to try this method for yourself.
Personally, I'm going to have a Packing Party for my toiletries. I have about 15gazillion too many magical products and potions, and I know I could be using that space better. I'll share updates on how that goes!
A few tidy tips!
- Group like objects together and label them as such, i.e. "games", "toiletries", "shoes", etc, to make finding what you're going to need easier.
- For a smaller area or category, you don't have to have use boxes to do your packing if you don't have them. Paper bags with sharpie'd on labels, or trash bags with post-it notes will work just fine
- Keep an extra box or two handy while you do the initial packing up - you're going to come across items that you know you want to donate or discard right away. Thank them & send them on their merry way.
The Packing Party will really put you in touch with what things you actually need and love.
For some of you that might be less, and for some of you that might be more. That's okay! Remember, there's no magic number of possessions that you have to force yourself to whittle down to in order to be a minimalist. Heck, you don't even have to be trying to be a minimalist for this to be a great exercise in taking control of your home!
Share your Packing Party experiences and tips on our Facebook page! And for inspo on what to do with all your brand new free space, head over to our Instagram!
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This all began because I just had to see the Integraton before this architectural gem closed for the summer. The geodesic dome turned sound retreat was built in the 1950s by an alien-enthusiast and engineer. Recently I suffered a heartache, and I wanted to do something nice for myself by going on a relaxing trip, and also experience the deep healing of their sound baths.
"When we hygger we are not ignoring difficulty but putting it down for a while. Pain and shadow still exist on the periphery of an experience of hygge. We acknowledge their presence and prepare ourselves to address them by committing ourselves to the pleasures of the present moment, in order to regain momentum and cope with life..."
- "The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection"
I took much inspiration for this post from "The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection" by Louisa Thomsen Brits. The quotes are all from her.
- "The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection"
I took much inspiration for this post from "The Book of Hygge: The Danish Art of Contentment, Comfort, and Connection" by Louisa Thomsen Brits. The quotes are all from her.
This summer at TidyFairy we are exploring hygge and everything we can learn from it to make our lives and the lives of our clients more enjoyable, especially when it comes to the home. For the Danes this concept cannot be captured by buying a few candles and cozy blankets. As Heather put it, "That's like buying an American flag bikini and some hot dogs and declaring you know freedom!" With Independence Day coming up, I think she's hit on something ;)
Heather Dee was also the first to remind me that going out to the desert in the summer is not particularly hygge, since hygge is NOT about punishing yourself and seeing what terrible conditions you can survive. The idea of a vision quest and hygge are actually at odds, because hygge is all about the familiar, and vision quests are specifically unfamiliar. But sometimes you can best learn what something is by exploring also what it is not.
I just didn't know how hot it was going to get.
Heather Dee was also the first to remind me that going out to the desert in the summer is not particularly hygge, since hygge is NOT about punishing yourself and seeing what terrible conditions you can survive. The idea of a vision quest and hygge are actually at odds, because hygge is all about the familiar, and vision quests are specifically unfamiliar. But sometimes you can best learn what something is by exploring also what it is not.
I just didn't know how hot it was going to get.
The Conditions
On the way to Joshua Tree the AC in my car burnt out! Much the way that Danes would need to hunker down against a blizzard, we were engulfed in an inferno and needed to seek relief!
The Refuge
We got a great little Air BnB in the form of a tiny house! I was attracted to the small size, simple furnishings, privacy, and cheerful paint job, which put together made for a very cozy place to stay. Luckily it also had a rockin' swamp cooler.
The inside of the bungalow was outfit for simple entertainment only - no television or other electronics to distract us from the peace of the desert. We had paperback books and a guitar and the conversation of one another, which fits nicely into Danish value of personal human interaction. Also candles to light at meals and little lanterns to light our way outside!
"Domestic appliances that call for our attention, or the interruption of electronic notifications that pull us away from the moment or from each other, detract from a hyggelig experience."
"Domestic appliances that call for our attention, or the interruption of electronic notifications that pull us away from the moment or from each other, detract from a hyggelig experience."
The simple wood furnishings and cotton textiles were also very hygge, which values natural materials. On an organizational note, it was wonderful to be in a place that had only the things we needed. Hotels and small Air Bnb's are great studies for cozy minimalism.
"An initial step to creating hygge is to give thought to the textures, sounds, scents, and tastes of our lives, to the quality of materiality that surrounds us."
They had even provided sage to burn and a special relaxation spray for the room! Knowing that our hosts had thought of everything made us feel very cared for.
"We notice and appreciate the things that have been prepared or put aside for our comfort - a well-laid fire, a clean bath towel at the end of a bed, a pillow put on the passenger seat for a long journey."
"An initial step to creating hygge is to give thought to the textures, sounds, scents, and tastes of our lives, to the quality of materiality that surrounds us."
They had even provided sage to burn and a special relaxation spray for the room! Knowing that our hosts had thought of everything made us feel very cared for.
"We notice and appreciate the things that have been prepared or put aside for our comfort - a well-laid fire, a clean bath towel at the end of a bed, a pillow put on the passenger seat for a long journey."
We also loved the Chofu wood burning hot tub - more on that in a moment!
The Quest
The drive to the Integraton the next day was dusty, windy, long and hot - all of those things came together to also make it a little terrifying considering we had spotty cell service. When we finally made it to the Integraton, the woman leading the sound bath remarked, "You two look so happy!" And indeed we WERE! Part of hygge is appreciating the contrast between elements, and the difference between car ride and the quiet, cool interior of the Integraton was MUCH appreciated!
"The contrast heightens our awareness, intensifies our pleasure and enhances our experience."
"The contrast heightens our awareness, intensifies our pleasure and enhances our experience."
The Little Things
When we got back to the Refuge at the end of a long day, we were so happy to hunker down and hygge. We loved so many things about the tiny house, but one of the coziest was the "cowboy hot tub." The fact of it being an actual animal watering trough, the chemical free water from a simple gardening hose, and the cozy smell of wood smoke all added to its hygge, which values the simple and rustic.
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Building the fire ourselves gave us a sense of accomplishment. Even exiting the tub in the cold air in order to stoke the flames added to the hygge, since we were able to better appreciate the contrast between the elements and our coziness in the tub!
"The primal attraction of an open fire or wood-burning stove speaks to our hearts and radiates a warmth that is very different from central heating; it lifts and soothes our spirits."
I also enjoyed the moments when we both did our own things, but in each other's presence! Relaxing with a book and a cup of tea in bed while Heather was on the couch in her little encampment, reading and napping, was companionable and safe feeling! I do not think I would have appreciated this quite as much if we weren't studying hygge.
"There is luxury in being alone in a warm bed, the luxury of a deep bath, or sitting in companionable silence with a friend in the evening sun."
"There is luxury in being alone in a warm bed, the luxury of a deep bath, or sitting in companionable silence with a friend in the evening sun."
All in all I was very glad we went, and I feel I did learn a lot about hygge despite the very un-hygge conditions! Have you toyed around with how hygge might enrich your life? What are some ways you already hygge but had not realized that's what you are doing? Does the awareness make you want to do it more?
Would you like help making your home ready for some good old fashioned hygge times?Or maybe just some simple decluttering? Email us at tidyfairyla@gmail.com OR text message 323-736-2594 to chat about it!
Share your hygge wisdom and experiences with us here, on our Facebook Page, and follow as we explore hygge on our Instagram!
You can check out more of Heather Dee's favorite Hyggespiration on our Pinterest!
Happy Hygge-ing!
Would you like help making your home ready for some good old fashioned hygge times?Or maybe just some simple decluttering? Email us at tidyfairyla@gmail.com OR text message 323-736-2594 to chat about it!
Share your hygge wisdom and experiences with us here, on our Facebook Page, and follow as we explore hygge on our Instagram!
You can check out more of Heather Dee's favorite Hyggespiration on our Pinterest!
Happy Hygge-ing!
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I have been obsessing over the best way to fill a suitcase since I was a freshman in college. After traveling overseas with two large suitcases that I could barely get on the Tube (that's some fancy London speak for you), I knew there had to be another way. While my favorite method of folding clothes vertically helps quite a bit, knowing how to streamline the items is essential.
Here's what I took with me on a recent trip home for one week!
Here's what I took with me on a recent trip home for one week!
Wear On the Plane
Tips here are to wear your bulkiest items, especially shoes, and your most comfortable items! I like to ball up my jacket once I am on the plane to use as a pillow. I also like to take a lightweight scarf that can be spread out into a mini blanket.
Wear on the Plane
1 long blouse
1 pair leggings
1 pair boots
1 denim jacket
1 grey hoodie
1 light cotton scarf
Wear on the Plane
1 long blouse
1 pair leggings
1 pair boots
1 denim jacket
1 grey hoodie
1 light cotton scarf
In Your Personal Item
One of the best things about getting to know yourself is that you can carry less on a plane! What are you really going to do for those three hours? Be honest now! Are you going to sleep, watch a movie, or are you really going to get allllll that work done? I have found that once I admitted to myself that I will not get work done - that the best I can expect is to read a memoir or journal - I streamlined what I need beneath my feet. I take my Kindle, journal, and my Chromebook (to protect it), but those are all super lightweight. And that's it!
The purse I carry is usually one that is soft (not rigid), durable, and can hold quite a bit when filled.
Have in Purse
Journal
Sunglasses
Passport (just in case!)
Glasses/Extra contacts
Kindle (with books loaded!)
Laptop
Snack (usually a Larabar and chocolate!)
The purse I carry is usually one that is soft (not rigid), durable, and can hold quite a bit when filled.
Have in Purse
Journal
Sunglasses
Passport (just in case!)
Glasses/Extra contacts
Kindle (with books loaded!)
Laptop
Snack (usually a Larabar and chocolate!)
The Suitcase
On this week long trip I was attending three special moments - a baby’s birth, a Mother’s Day lunch, and a Graduation! It was a summer trip, but there was PLENTY of room left in my suitcase had the clothing been bulkier.
First we have one suitcase, blue, bought the night before. As a newly minted minimalist, I rock the carry-on only. (It is not in excess of the American Airlines standard of 22 x 14 x 9 in.) This saves time at the airport AND money!
First we have one suitcase, blue, bought the night before. As a newly minted minimalist, I rock the carry-on only. (It is not in excess of the American Airlines standard of 22 x 14 x 9 in.) This saves time at the airport AND money!
So what's in the suitcase?
Here's the goods, in all the gory details!
I believe in taking one of everything. I bet you didn't expect that! This is mostly because I have a mental block when it comes to imagining other weather, but also because as a small young woman I am ALWAYS cold. At the same time? I HATE to be hot! Taking one of each type of clothing (within reason) means I always have SOMETHING to wear when I encounter an adverse temperature. Layering is my friend! It also helps for unexpected activities. ("You want to walk by the river? Sure just let me grab my casual sneaks!)
I also believe in the accessories rule of packing. Usually with accessories it's "get dressed and then take one accessory off." With packing I decide how many outfits I need and then remove one. I also like to wear separates for events rather than dresses. This way you can re-purpose them into new outfits during the trip!
Finally, ask yourself a few questions about your destination. Can you do laundry? If so, that should cut your packing in half. Also, will there be a hair dryer? It's worth the time to call ahead and find out! This also goes for things I use as toiletries, like apple cider vinegar and baking soda, which can be easily purchased and left behind.
Clothing:
1 coral pink accordion pleated skirt
1 pair pajama pants
1 pair jeans
2 neutral off the collarbone tops
2 pair shorts (one fun, one neutral)
2 graphic t-shirts
2 neutral tank tops
5 pair underwear
1 bralette
1 pair sandals
1 pair keds-style casual sneakers
Accessories:
2 gold necklaces for layering
1 pair gold heart earrings
Gifts:
1 baby gift (picked something from the registry that was lightweight and foldable!)
1 Mother’s Day card (purchased a lunch as a gift)
1 Graduation Day card (purchased a gift once I arrived)
Toiletries:
Toner
Toothpaste/Toothbrush
Makeup
Jojoba Oil (multi-use)
Bar soap
Razor
Contact Solution
Vitamins and Supplements
Electronics:
Phone charger
Notes for traveling with a full carry-on through security:
Bars of soap and razors will get flagged, as well as jars even if they don't have liquid. You will save time by putting those items in bins going through the scanner rather than having them packed in your suitcase.
I believe in taking one of everything. I bet you didn't expect that! This is mostly because I have a mental block when it comes to imagining other weather, but also because as a small young woman I am ALWAYS cold. At the same time? I HATE to be hot! Taking one of each type of clothing (within reason) means I always have SOMETHING to wear when I encounter an adverse temperature. Layering is my friend! It also helps for unexpected activities. ("You want to walk by the river? Sure just let me grab my casual sneaks!)
I also believe in the accessories rule of packing. Usually with accessories it's "get dressed and then take one accessory off." With packing I decide how many outfits I need and then remove one. I also like to wear separates for events rather than dresses. This way you can re-purpose them into new outfits during the trip!
Finally, ask yourself a few questions about your destination. Can you do laundry? If so, that should cut your packing in half. Also, will there be a hair dryer? It's worth the time to call ahead and find out! This also goes for things I use as toiletries, like apple cider vinegar and baking soda, which can be easily purchased and left behind.
Clothing:
1 coral pink accordion pleated skirt
1 pair pajama pants
1 pair jeans
2 neutral off the collarbone tops
2 pair shorts (one fun, one neutral)
2 graphic t-shirts
2 neutral tank tops
5 pair underwear
1 bralette
1 pair sandals
1 pair keds-style casual sneakers
Accessories:
2 gold necklaces for layering
1 pair gold heart earrings
Gifts:
1 baby gift (picked something from the registry that was lightweight and foldable!)
1 Mother’s Day card (purchased a lunch as a gift)
1 Graduation Day card (purchased a gift once I arrived)
Toiletries:
Toner
Toothpaste/Toothbrush
Makeup
Jojoba Oil (multi-use)
Bar soap
Razor
Contact Solution
Vitamins and Supplements
Electronics:
Phone charger
Notes for traveling with a full carry-on through security:
Bars of soap and razors will get flagged, as well as jars even if they don't have liquid. You will save time by putting those items in bins going through the scanner rather than having them packed in your suitcase.
 | That's all she wrote! Did you find this helpful? Is there anything missing on this list that you just couldn't live without? Comment below or tell us about it on our Facebook page! |
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Who doesn't want to be a little bit happier?
I certainly do. That quest for increased happiness is what led me to hire Gina Novish (ImpactStyling) to save me from my closet, which led me to Marie Kondo, who taught me that I have a skill and passion for decluttering, which led me to becoming a Tidy Fairy! It's also what inspired me to pick up Gretchen Rubin's book, "The Happiness Project". It's a delightful read about her personal journey to increase her own happiness through measurable, actionable, daily steps based on ancient wisdom, scientific research, pop culture (and of course, advice from friends).
I didn't pick this out thinking that it would have anything to do with tidying. And yet, there it was; in the very first month of her Happiness Project. I just can't escape my love of decluttering. (Who am I kidding though; I was so excited to discover this portion of the book! HashtagNerdFeels)
I didn't pick this out thinking that it would have anything to do with tidying. And yet, there it was; in the very first month of her Happiness Project. I just can't escape my love of decluttering. (Who am I kidding though; I was so excited to discover this portion of the book! HashtagNerdFeels)
"Toss. Restore. Organize."
Her first month was all about boosting her daily energy. As a part of that task, Gretchen decided to get her house in order, citing her own personal experience of feeling her energy drain as soon as she stepped into her cluttered home, as well as research that suggested that eliminating clutter would cut down on the amount of housework by 40 percent (let's all do less housework! Hooray!).
I can absolutely identify with that feeling of coming home after a long day out, and feeling so depressed at the sight of piles of stuff on the counters, clothes on the floor, "junk" everywhere...it's not a relaxing or welcoming environment to return to. It used to zap whatever energy I had left at the end of the day, leaving me to defeatedly fall into bed with some junk food and junk tv, without even the strength to wash my makeup off. (Denial, even if it's just of messiness, takes energy, ya'll).
I can absolutely identify with that feeling of coming home after a long day out, and feeling so depressed at the sight of piles of stuff on the counters, clothes on the floor, "junk" everywhere...it's not a relaxing or welcoming environment to return to. It used to zap whatever energy I had left at the end of the day, leaving me to defeatedly fall into bed with some junk food and junk tv, without even the strength to wash my makeup off. (Denial, even if it's just of messiness, takes energy, ya'll).
"Make a list, do a little bit each day, and stay calm."
Gretchen came up with her own tidying advice that I just love, and I had to share a little with you! I'm not going to get into everything; you'll have to read her book and/or check out her fantastic blog.
I'd like to share with you how she breaks down clutter into manageable categories, all of which have pretty clear and simple solutions.
She came up with 8 great types of clutter that people are likely to fall prey to:
I'd like to share with you how she breaks down clutter into manageable categories, all of which have pretty clear and simple solutions.
She came up with 8 great types of clutter that people are likely to fall prey to:
- Nostalgic Clutter "relics I clung to from my earlier life". Goodness, did I have a ton of that. Sheet music, scripts, more sheet music, programs, cast shirts, character shoes, tap shoes, jazz shoes...all of which I had not had any use for in over a decade! They were gear that was necessary for the girl I once was. But those things are not a part of my life today. I've purged most of my theater stuff at this point, save for a few highly sentimental scores, pictures, and a few videos. I'm happy to have the memories. I don't miss the gear at all.
- Conservation Clutter "things I've kept because they're useful - even though they're useless to me." Yes. Why did I need enough dinner wear to throw a party for twenty when I don't really like to have more than one person over at a time? Because silverware was still "useful". No. Donate now. Why did I have five vases? Three basically identical strainers? Four sets of playing cards? You get the picture. If it's still useful but you aren't using it, give it to a friend in need or have a yardsale or DONATE IT. Tomorrow.
- Bargain Clutter "results from buying unnecessary things because they're on sale." I didn't suffer from this exactly as I don't much like to shop, but pretty much everyone I know has run into this one from time to time. Things can look real exciting when they're sitting in the dollar discount display, only to lose their luster when you bring them home and find you didn't really have a need (or a place) for them. There is also a very real adrenaline rush experienced by many people when they feel they have found the best deal on an item, or been able to bargain for a great price. Ultimately, I feel the psychic cost of a home laden in clutter is not worth the temporary high of bargain hunting.
- Freebie Clutter "the clutter of gifts, hand-me-downs, and giveaways that we didn't use." This one. This one was me. For sentimental reasons as well as poverty fearing reasons, most of my clutter came in the form of things that I got for free. For example, Marlane has been throwing clothing swaps for several years now, where a bunch of us lady friends get together and trade clothes that are still in good shape but just don't suit us anymore. I always made out like a bandit. I would walk in with one grocery bag to donate, and walk out with four hefty trash bags full of new-to-me FREE threads. It was just too fun and too tempting. But I ended up feeling overwhelmed by the amount of bargain(FREE) clothes I was bringing in, and would end up just shoving them in my closet and saving them for "someday". Lesson learned. A simplified closet = a happier me on the daily. I still go to the swaps, but don't take home more than I bring to donate.
- Crutch Clutter "the things I used but knew I shouldn't." Guys...holy underwear. That's some crutch clutter. A 12 year old festival sweatshirt stained with paint, fraying at the sleeves, that's four sizes too large...crutch clutter. In the immortal words of Elsa "Let it GO! LET IT GOOOO!" (And by let it go I mostly mean really let it go...into the trash. I don't personally advocate creating waste in your quest for a clutter free life, but NO ONE needs your holy underwear/socks/sheets/etc.)
- Aspirational Clutter "things I owned but only aspired to use." SO many craft supplies fell into this category for me. I don't have kids, I'm not in school, and I'm the poster child for pintrest fails. I just wasn't ever going to knit or crochet or learn to needlepoint or any of it. Nope. In real life, I'm much more likely to go play outside with my free time then to stay at home and craft. So I let allll of that go. Although I am currently looking at two guitars that I can barely play, so perhaps there is more for me to do in this category...
- Outgrown Clutter "the flipside of aspirational clutter." Unframed posters that used to hang in your high school bedroom. Plastic picture frames (possibly with no frames) that you once loved but now will never use. They aren't paying rent & it's time for them to move on. And finally...
- Buyer's Remorse Clutter "rather than admit I'd made a bad purchase, I hung onto things until I somehow felt they'd been 'used up' by sitting in a closet or on a shelf..." I think we've all been there. It's okay. You made a bad purchase for you. Don't let sunk cost keep you trapped in the oppressive energy of a house cluttered with things that just make you feel guilty. Do you have a friend or relative who might love or could benefit from that purchase that wasn't really right for you? Offer it, or give it as a gift. If it's so bad it's good, it could make a great white elephant gift. Or yard sale it. Or donate it. But don't surround yourself with items that make you feel bad.
"Junk attracts more junk. If you clear it off, it's likely to stay clear."
| Gretchen's book is eminently quotable and full of great advice (and not just about tidying!), and I'd highly recommend it. I love that at the end of the day she came to the conclusion that additional storage solutions were not necessary to free her from clutter. All she needed were two trash bags - one for throwaways and one for giveaways. I also loved her epiphany that by decreasing the amount of clothing in her closet, she actually felt like she had much more to wear! I feel exactly the same way! We all want to feel we have exactly the best stuff for us to wear in our closets, and decluttering actually gives you that. It may seem counter intuitive, but it really does work! |  |
Could you use this categorical awareness of clutter to conquer your closet? A cabinet? Or a drawer?
Try it out! Hone in on one category and see if that inspires you to free yourself from things in your home that don't bring you joy! A little bit of decluttering goes a long way toward improving your energy, boosting your mood due to feeling productive, and improving your relationship to material things!
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Marlane & Heather
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