Edit Your Life: 6 Steps to a 60-Minute Quick Clean!
Looking for ways to reduce stress? Simplifying your life by weeding out the ” stuff” you no longer need is proven to reduce the stress hormone cortisol, and fuel healthy choices.
Choosing what should stay and what can go can be quick and painless, too, if you follow these simple steps:
#1: Choose One High-Impact Area
Limit your target area to keep each decluttering session manageable. Start with the areas that have the most visible clutter or are used frequently, such as living rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. These areas will give you the most significant sense of accomplishment when decluttered.
#2: Gather What You Need
Before you get to work, gather trash bags, boxes, or bins for sorting items, cleaning supplies, and any tools you might need for disassembling or moving larger items.
#3: Set a Time Limit
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a major time commitment. In fact, smaller, bite-sized “˜life edits’ can be cathartic. Set a timer for 60 minutes, vow to stick to the time limit, and stay focused. Don’t let yourself get lost in sentimental items or distracted by your phone.
#4: Use the “Four-Box Method”
Keep four boxes or containers labeled “Keep,” “Donate,” “Trash,” and “Relocate” as you work. Quickly sort each item into one of these categories as you move through the space.
#5: Be Decisive
Avoid spending too much time pondering over each item. Trust your instincts and make quick decisions. If you’re unsure, move on and come back to it later.
Remember, a quick clean purge is about making rapid decisions and being ruthless in getting rid of things you no longer need or use. You’ll feel better once the tough decisions are made.
#6: Donate Your Items to Ohio Valley Goodwill
Here comes the easiest part! Once you’re finished, pack up those ” donate” boxes and drop them off at your nearest Ohio Valley Goodwill Donation Center.
While it may not be as thorough as a more extended decluttering process, a quick clean can still significantly improve the overall look and feel of your home.
You’ll likely feel less stressed, and your donated items will be put to good use. Every donation we receive at Goodwill goes on to help support job skills training and employment services that transform the lives of individuals who live right here in the Cincinnati area. Now that’s a very good thing!
