Downsizing Tip #4: De-cluttering with Support
Submitted by lori on Thu, 06/25/2009 - 07:04
De-cluttering has to be one of the hardest tasks to accomplish. Even as a professional organizer who does this day in and day out, it can be difficult in my own space at times. The practical side of people says that their isn't enough space and that the items just need to go. The emotional side however is constantly tugging at the heart strings to keep the items. Sometimes it can really feel like a never ending battle of willpower. This is exactly why a support system is not only necessary but crucial when beginning a large downsizing project.
Your support system can be anyone. I've worked with clients that have had clutter buster parties inviting over their friends to help take away excess items. Everyone gets to help out and has to take at least one item home with them. Sometimes people have clothing swap parties. Everyone brings clothes to swap and whatever is left over goes to charity. In some religious circles, their have been church member groups that assemble and in one fell swoop, sort, wash laundry, clean, bag and drop items off for charity. Scout troops, volunteer programs and city programs can also be a source of assistance.
Not everyone feels that comfortable though. Privacy is a very big issue to contend with and the thought of other people going through personal belongings can send some people over the edge. Even family members can be too much to handle at times. Especially if they are not able to keep comments to themselves. Sometimes a professional is the most comforting. Just knowing that confidentiality, and experience are on your side can make a world of difference. Often we work with individuals for a few sessions, then when the time is right we bring in the assistants (family, friends, community) to help complete the job in a budget friendly, timely process.
What is most important to remember however is that people genuinely like to help out. Trying to match up the resources with the comfort level is the challenge and sometimes a leap of faith is needed. The only way to find a good support system however is to just give it a shot. Start some place safe and less private in your space and see how the pairing works out. If you don't feel comfortable then another match might be better. You might just find out though how much nicer it is to have someone to hold your hand, talk you through your decisions, be a sounding board and keep you on track.
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