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Simplify your Wardrobe:
Most people
wear less than 20% of the items in their closet on a regular basis. A simplified wardrobe can relieve a great deal of stress.
Fewer options will expedite your outfit selection each morning. Stick to mix and match clothing pieces that are classic and
timeless. Eliminate items that our outdated, waiting more than 6 months for repair or alterations, or worn less than twice
a year. The increased space in your closet will also make it easier to view the remaining clothing you have.
Simplify your Garage & Storage area:
As the seasons change, swap snow shovels and ice picks
for rakes and garden shovels. Store the unused items above in the rafters. If you have multiples of outdoor tools, garden
tools, or sporting equipment, select the one in the best condition, and eliminate the others. Most importantly, if you have
boxes in your storage area or garage that have been unopened for over two years, consider discarding it. If it's been stored
that long, you likely don't need it.
Simplify your Children's Toys:
Some toys,
such as building blocks, are a staple in a child's toy repertoire and should be kept. Classic games and toys should be retained
so long as they are regularly played with. Others like board games or puzzles which are missing pieces, trendy toys (remember
Tickle Me Elmo?) that now sit on the shelf collecting dust, or gifted items that your children never had any real interest
in should be discarded or donated. More than likely, your child will never miss those items and their playroom shelves will
look considerably less cluttered.
Simplify your Kitchen:
Keep your cupboards organized by eliminating dishes and appliances
you rarely use. You only need enough dishes to serve your family and a reasonable number of guests. Donate any extras. A single
set of mixing bowls and cooking utensils is all that is necessary. While decluttering the kitchen, take a look under the sink
and combine or discard multiples of cleaning supplies as well. Then find time to take a look through your pantry and donate
any non-perishables you will not eat in the next month to a food bank.
Simplify your Finances:
Multiple credit cards make it easy to accumulate debt and easy to miss a payment as well. If you have debt, consolidate
it into one loan or credit card. An even better option is to become debt-free. If you are married and still have separate
accounts, merge them into one. If you have money in the stock market, buy and hold rather than playing the ups and downs.
Package services such as insurance (car, home, life) and technology (Internet, cable, phone) whenever possible. One bill is
easier to keep track of than three. In addition to simplification, you may find that packaged services at a discounted rate
as well.
Simplify your Schedule:
Avoid taking on too many social engagements.
Carefully consider your availability before joining any groups, committees, or clubs. Limiting your social commitments will
allow you do give each its due attention. Additionally, simplify your family obligations by grouping appointments together
whenever possible. Take one trip to the dentist instead of 5 separate trips. If your children are involved in after-school
activities, find another family that will carpool with you. Life is much simpler when you only need to drive the kids to soccer
once a week instead of 3 times.
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