Create a Happy Haven: Simple Solutions for a Happier Home

Step #3: De-clutter and rediscover the heart of your home

What exactly is clutter?

The oxford definition of clutter is simply a “crowded and untidy collection of things.” It should be easy enough to clear out your clutter by this definition… right? Simply look for areas that are untidy and tidy them! But my opinion is that clutter is so much more complicated than just the piles we have laying around our homes.

There are many different categories clutter can belong. The first of these, are the items that we used to find useful. Perhaps they were clothes that once fit, old technology/ electronics, or cassettes. These things perhaps brought us great joy at one time, and it is hard to let go. The second category would be the opposite of this, and these are the things that we think we may need someday. We tuck these items away and store them just in case: just in case we need them, in case someone else may need them, or just in case it may be worth money someday. In addition, clutter can be unfinished projects. How many unfinished projects do you have around? Finally, is the space issue; not enough space for too many items. Too much of a good thing can turn bad!

Just as we keep picture frames on our desks at work displaying the faces of our loved ones to inspire us, our homes should be filled with things that bring us happiness, not sadness and regret. While looking around your home examine whether you would actually purchase the items that you have right now if you were shopping. Do the items work with your current lifestyle, taste, and style? Do you absolutely love the items? Do you even like them?

It’s time to stop keeping things out of fear and guilt. Fear that you might someday need it and guilt that you really should keep it for any other reasons than because you need it or you love it. Grab some bags and start working in a room, tossing as you think of each category:

Was this once useful but not anymore?
Am I holding onto this out of fear that I may need it without really investigating it further?
Is this an unfinished project? Can I actually ever finish this? Does it bring me guilt that it is unfinished?
Do I have the space for this?

Why do we have so much clutter? The answer can be quite simple, because we can. Most of our parents had bigger families and smaller homes. The also did not have the ability to rent self-storage units, which is now a booming industry. We will inevitably fill the spaces that we have.

Allow yourself to let go. Let go of the guilt and the fear. Rediscover the items that you really do love in your home that have been hidden by the mediocrity. You will physically feel lighter as each bag of clutter leaves your home. You can focus on today, your family, your hopes, and dreams, which is at the very heart of your home.
Betsy