I’m a decluttering whizz and there’s a huge mistake you’re probably making right now – use my ‘one-year rule’ to fix it
A PROFESSIONAL organiser has exposed the major mistake that “you’re probably making right now”.
Meg Golightly, the founder of Go Simplified, said that most people have “a graveyard for items that we are uncertain about”.
You should follow Meg’s ‘one-year rule’ to declutter your space[/caption]However, our inability to make a decision on what to keep and what to bin results in unwanted and ugly clutter.
“Most of us have a room or a closet that often becomes a graveyard for items that we are uncertain about,” Meg empathised.
“Leading to postponed decision-making and accumulated clutter.”
No matter how handy you think an item might come in, there’s a fine line between hanging onto it for good reason and simply hoarding it.
However, decluttering whizz Meg said you can fix this with her “one-year rule”.
“If an item hasn’t been used in over a year and has no significant sentimental value, it’s likely safe to let go of it,” she explained on Instagram.
“And limit sentimental keeps.
“Take pictures of things to keep the memory and let the physical object go.”
For the one-year rule to work, you need to be firm with yourself.
For example, if you stuck something in the loft two years ago and haven’t even thought of it since, it’s time to get rid.
You don’t have to just stick it in the bin, though.
If it’s in good working order, you can give it to a family member or friend that will actually use it, or donate it to charity.
BONUS TIPS
Meg detailed two extra tips to help you have a successful decluttering session.
She recommended setting “clear goals and intentions for the space”.
“Define what you ideally want to use the room for,” she penned.
“Having a clear vision of the room’s potential use will motivate you.”
The expert also urged people to “divide and conquer” before setting about a big detoxing.
“Begin by dividing the room into manageable sections,” she said.
“Tackle one section at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
“Have boxes and bags ready then categorise them into keep, donate/sell, recycle and discard piles”.