Decluttering your home can be a daunting task, especially when you don’t know where to start. Deciding what to keep and what to throw away can be overwhelming, but it is an essential part of decluttering. In this article, we will provide you with some tips on how to decide what to keep and what to throw away.
Step 1: Start small
Start with a small area, such as a drawer or a shelf, and work your way up. This will help you to build momentum and feel less overwhelmed. It will also give you a sense of accomplishment when you complete a small area.
Step 2: Use the 80/20 rule
The 80/20 rule states that we only use 20% of our possessions 80% of the time. When decluttering, use this rule as a guide to determine what to keep and what to throw away. Keep the items that you use regularly and discard those that you rarely or never use.
Step 3: Consider the condition of the item
Consider the condition of the item when deciding whether to keep it or throw it away. If the item is broken, damaged, or no longer serves its purpose, it’s time to let it go. Don’t hold onto items in the hope that you will fix them someday.
Step 4: Ask yourself if you love it
Ask yourself if you love the item. If it doesn’t bring you joy or have any sentimental value, consider getting rid of it. Don’t hold onto items out of obligation or guilt.
Step 5: Consider the space you have
Consider the space you have when deciding what to keep and what to throw away. If you don’t have space for the item, it’s time to let it go. Don’t hold onto items that clutter up your space.
Step 6: Be honest with yourself
Be honest with yourself about why you are holding onto the item. Are you holding onto it out of fear or because you think you might need it someday? Be honest with yourself about whether the item is truly necessary.
Step 7: Create a donation pile
Create a donation pile for items that are still in good condition but no longer needed. This will help someone else and make you feel good about decluttering.
Step 8: Take your time
Don’t rush the process. Take your time and go through each item carefully. This will ensure that you make the right decisions about what to keep and what to throw away.