It's not important whether you are able to dedicate a large block of time for a room or just 5 minutes for a drawer,  what matters is getting the job done.  So what if it takes you 3 months?  Releasing yourself from clutter gives you a sense of freedom both physically and mentally.

Follow these 7 basic tips to get you started:

1. EMPTY IT OUT
To de-clutter properly, you must first empty out the entire drawer, closet, box or whatever you want to work on.

2. GET IT TOGETHER
Make sure you have a large trash bag and some smaller containers for the "giveaways" and "return to other rooms."

3. ASK YOURSELF . . .
As you handle each item, repeat the organizer's mantra:
"Do I want it?", "Do I need it?", "When did I last use/wear it?", and my all time personal favorite: "What was I thinking?"

4. BAG IT
Keep a shopping bag on the back of each closet door. Every time you come across something that is no longer needed or wanted, pop it in the bag.

5. GIVE IT A HOME
Following the organizer's creed of "a place for everything and everything in its place" keeps you organized and enables you to see what you have. Remember there are general locations, such as a drawer or shelf, and specific locations such as the hook for your keys.

6. MAKE IT EASY
Always store items in the room where they will be used, and in the room location where they will be used.

7. CLEAR IT OFF
Clearing off the excess from counters and shelves immediately makes your room look more organized and gives you the feeling of being more in control.

You can control the clutter in your life, but don't try to do it all at once. Just keep plugging away at one drawer, one closet, one room at a time. And before you know it, you'll have beaten back the beast.

Nicola Gelling is a Professional Organizer in the Washington DC Metro Area. 

Her company, Custom Assignments Inc., also provides errand and concierge services. 

Tel :301-469-6874  Web Site: www.customassignments.com

We welcome your comments and success stories about creating your own lifestyle of elegance and simplicity. Join our ASPIRATIONS BLOG to start sharing today.

Scott Andrews is a life coach, business consultant, and CEO/Founder of AspireNow (www.AspireNow.com), a site helping people realize their business and personal aspirations. He is a speaker and the author of numerous articles and workbooks on business success, life purpose, smooth sailing relationships, and creating abundant lifestyles. He launched the first interactive self-help program on the Net, called the AspireNow Advisor.

See similar articles in Elegant Simplicity

Click here to discover Related Books on creating a lifestyle of Elegant Simplicity.

Click here for Article Reprint information.

Click here to send AspireNow your Feedback.

Please read our terms and conditions of usage of this site prior to exploring articles.