4 Steps to Clearing the Clutter for 2024
The new year is coming, and it always seems to spark a desire for a fresh start. Clearing clutter for the new year can be a refreshing way to kick off 2024.
Here are some steps to help you get started!
#1: Set Clear Goals
Tackling your “stuff” is often an overwhelming proposition. Defining your goals for decluttering can help you wrap your mind around the task, and will help you to build a plan of attack. Whether it’s creating more space, improving organization, or simply reducing stress, having clear objectives will guide your efforts.
#2: Create a Plan
Build a plan of action that leads you to the goals you’ve established. If you’ve chosen to address multiple living spaces, decide in what order you’ll be working on them and how long each will take. When you break down the process into smaller, more manageable tasks, the work will seem less overwhelming and more achievable.
#3: Sort and Categorize
For each area, you’ll want sort the items to decide what you’ll keep, donate, or throw away. It’s easier to be thorough if you start the process by removing all the items from the area you’re addressing first. That way you won’t miss things lurking at the back of a drawer or shelf. If you find it’s difficult to choose items to donate, ask yourself whether that item brings you happiness. If not, it’s time to say goodbye.
#4: Everything in its Place
Once you’ve decided which items you’ll keep, resist the urge to simply put items back where you found them. Instead, ask yourself if there’s a better place to store or display each item to maximize organization and ease of use. Now’s your chance to switch things up if something’s not working for you!
Goodwill Helps You Clear the Way for Giving
The items you no longer have a use for may be useful for someone else. To give them a second chance, find your nearest Goodwill Donation Center and drop them off.
Donating items to Goodwill is more sustainable than throwing them away, and you’ll be helping others at the same time! Your donations help to support Goodwill’s mission of making a positive change in the lives of individuals with disabilities and our nation’s veterans through employment opportunities. Your fresh start to the new year means a new beginning for others when you donate to Goodwill.
