BellaOnline Forums Home and Garden Natural Living New Year, Less Clutter

This article always seems appropriate once the New Year hits. I don't know about you, but I start each year off with a massive decluttering spree. I wrote an article with tips to help us on our journeys:

https://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art305500.asp

Happy New Year, Everyone!

I need to reduce paper - I'm a genealogist. This morning I scanned my mother's high school scrapbook items - 5 very aged yellow sheets. So, now I am 6 sheets less having in a pile.

Angie,

Yes, paper clutter is difficult and it can get out of hand quickly! I find that scanning or taking photos helps considerably (as long as I let myself get rid of the item after). For me, mail piles can get out of hand quickly. I have to make sure I tend to it regularly because most of the mail I get is junk and the clutter is totally unnecessary.

Thanks for your comment!

Katherine T.

Katherine it is difficult to let some of the original material go. When I open mail, I keep what I need and discard the rest immediately in a little shopping bag which I keep next to my seat. When the bag is full, it is emptied into the recycling can.

Angie, This is really great advice!!! I totally agree.

I often walk through a room and pick up and put away or discard. I'll open a kitchen drawer or the pantry and see what is collecting. Often you have 10-15 minutes before you leave the house; it is, what can I do in 15 minutes? You would be surprised at what can be accomplished.