Room to Breathe
My grandmother knew she was nearing the conclusion of her story. There was no closet, drawer, or Tupperware dish left unattended. She labeled lamps, saucers & “treasures” with various grandkids names. What used to be a storage closet now became a functioning tomb of relabeled boxes and files. From the looks of the curb on trash day, she must have bought stock in a trash bag company.
Yes, grandma was “decluttering” or to use the Swedish term dostadning; which is translated death clean. I’m not suggesting a morbid preparation of your possessions; however, there is something valuable in decluttering your life and getting rid of waste.
Marie Kondo’s Netflix show, Tidying Up, has highlighted the benefit and process of making room for life by removing the “stuff” that distracts and takes up space. Removing things and perhaps people that don’t enhance or enrich your life may be a great start to an organized life. When we remove unused, unwanted, unnecessary items, we make room to breathe, think and act with greater clarity and purpose. Here are three ways to start your journey to declutter your home.
- Change your Perspective
Remember the saying, “change your perspective, and change your life.” Try naming all the benefits of removing the clutter from your home (i.e. increased space, physical activity, you may even find a lost treasure).
- Start with a list
A list will help you to stay focused, and gives a sense of accomplishment when you’re able to mark completed tasks off.
- One room at a time
Attempting to declutter your entire space in one setting may be overwhelming and unrealistic. Pick one space, maybe even a small space and make that your project for the day.
I miss grandma and I’m thankful she brought order to the final season of her life. I have memories of her final days where the conversation was less about her mess and more about each other. I guess she really did make room for me.
