Ridding your home of junk can mean a heavier pocket and a happier heart.
Your daughter has graduated from college, but you still have her security blanket and favorite stuffed toy stored in your house. Maybe, it is time to move on, just as she has, and clean up things that have outlasted.
So, put on those gloves, tune in to http://www.musiciansfriend.com/, and get ready to groove (with dirty hands…)
Keep and Clear
Start by putting out three large boxes, labeling them “IN,”, “Out,” and “Not Sure.” Throw away everything that’s out of date, in poor repair or otherwise, non-functional, as advised by an expert. Be strict on yourself, and try not to let your sentimental side win too much.
Invite a friend to be an impartial judge if your stuff should stay or go. If all else fails, drop the item into the “Not Sure” box. An expert recommends that you seal your “Not Sure” box when done, and set it aside. If it stays unopened for a year, then you really didn’t want or need what was inside so it’s time for these things to go.
As for:
- Magazines. If it only holds one or two interesting pages, rip those out and comile them in folders – one each for recipes, decor ideas, etc. The rest of the magazine can go for recycling.
- Reference Books. Ask yourself these two questions: Is the information up to date? Have we used this book in the last two years? If you answer no to either question, it’s time to donate them.
- Bills and Receipts. Shred your bills once you’ve paid them – just keep your proof f payment. The same goes with your credit card and ATM receipts. Once your monthly statement arrives, toss them out.
Now what?
Here’s what to do with your “Out” box.
- Hold a garage sale. Aside from neighbors and friends, invite people who buy second hand items for a living.
- Junk shops buy items according to weight. Really. they buy old newspapers, magazine, telephone directories, and scrap white paper by the kilo. They even buy busted appliances, also by weight.
- Donate to charity organization.
De-cluttering may mean saying goodbye to things that once meant a lot to you. But it also means a cleaner home, additional income, and gaining the satisfaction of having helped others.
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