Feel stuck? Organize with this on the wall.
This photo speaks for itself. Occasionally I take on clients whose organizing needs extend far beyond the office. This is from one such job. We measured progress in the number of contractor's bags that left the house throughout the sessions. Together we tallied the bags we loaded and tossed together. Also, and in-between visits she continued to tally her progress, proud to share with me at my next visit. This provided a visible scoresheet that kept her motivated, even when it felt like the floodwaters were receding slowly. At the end of a different project we estimated we had recycled an average of seven grocery bags of paper each visit! I only wish we had kept track of exactly how much left that room. Surely it was close to 100. (Watch a short video from this project here.)
Tracking one's progress is so beneficial. First of all, it's so easy. Second of all, it keeps you motivated on those days when you feel like you're spinning your wheels. I like looking at bags of paper 'n things lined up outside the door and saying to my clients "Could you imagine bringing it all back in? How did it ever fit?"
7 Day Inspired Office Challenge
Regardless of where you are in the decluttering process, start tracking the bags/boxes/papers that leave with a simple list. I've found it helps to stick it on the door where you'll see your progress accumulate as you (and the clutter) come and go. Do you think the simple act of tracking boxes & bags trashed & recycled will help you to let go?
Do you have any time-tested "tricks" for helping you to unload clutter? Please share in comments!
