feng shui and decluttering

5 top tips for starting to declutter

| steffybot

So, you’re probably here because you’re ready to tackle that clutter, right? Facing a heap of stuff to sort through can feel pretty overwhelming. But trust me, once you’ve got everything neatly organised, you’ll be riding that feel-good wave and loving your rooms or home again.

Decluttering is totally my jam these days. There’s something oddly therapeutic about zoning in and just getting it done. My advice? Set aside a couple of hours, cue up some tunes, and just vibe with it.

This five-step guide breaks down the whole decluttering process, making it easier for you to follow along and get the job done. So, let’s dive in or save this for later—because let’s face it, life gets busy…

HERE’S HOW TO DECLUTTER YOUR HOME IN FIVE SIMPLE STEPS

Let’s give your place that fresh makeover with these easy-to-follow steps.

STEP 1: ENVISION THE END RESULT

I’m big on manifestation. Picture how you want your rooms to look once they’re decluttered and organised. This not only fires up your motivation but also helps you pinpoint what you really want to toss out, making the whole process less stressful.

STEP 2: SORT ITEMS INTO CATEGORIES

Room by room, divide your stuff into three piles: keep, donate and bin. Pro tip: Lay out a blanket or use boxes beforehand to make moving things around easier. When deciding whether to part with something, ask yourself how much you actually use it and if it holds sentimental value. If it’s neither useful nor sentimental, it’s rubbish or donated.

STEP 3: CHECK THE DONATE AND BIN PILES?

Now that you’ve got your bin and donate pile, sift through it. Separate the genuine trash from items that could find a new home. If they’re still in good nick—clean and unbroken—consider passing them on.  It’s way better for the planet than binning. Of course, some things are beyond saving, and that’s okay—bid them goodbye guilt-free.

STEP 4: GET ORGANISED

Stash away loose items neatly. Think cubes for the bedroom, fridge organisers for the kitchen, and racks and containers for the bathroom or get creative in the living room with ottomans and coffee tables that double as secret storage spots.

STEP 5: LABEL THOSE STORAGE CONTAINERS

Labelling your boxes makes finding stuff easier. No more rummaging through cabinets! Plus, it’s handy for keeping things separate. Go for sticker labels or grab a handheld label maker for extra convenience.

These tips will help you get started with your decluttering and organising your home. Need more help check out my Declutter DIY My Products this does inc a section to help you plan how you want things to look. Or reach out for my one-on-one support Declutter with Steph.

Want to learn more about decluttering and its impact on life and more.

Check out my other blogs:

How to know when to declutter

Difference between cleaning, decluttering and organising

Clutter and health

Love and Light, Steph. x

Spring cleaning

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Take a slow spring clean.  

We live in a world obsessed with hustle and bustle. We want everything to be done quickly and efficiently, especially our household chores and spring cleaning. I am so one of them.

This year, however, I am going to make my spring cleaning a slow cleaning – a more mindful approach to preparing our homes for the warmer months that prioritises spring cleaning without getting overwhelmed rather than quick.

There are many benefits for both your home and your mind.

What is slow cleaning?

The practice of slow cleaning is one where you don’t focus on cleaning everything as fast as you can to tick it off your spring cleaning checklist, but rather take your time and enjoy the process while you clean. Removing the pressures off ourselves, however, still creates the desired results.

By doing this slow approach you can make it more mindful or use it as a time for practising gratitude, it can certainly help to make the experience more relaxing and enjoyable – especially when dealing with the most forgotten spring cleaning dirt spots.

Here are four ways to use slow cleaning.

1. Try one task a day

You might have heard of the different day, different room housekeeping tip, but how about the one-task, one-day schedule to tackle your spring-cleaning checklist?

The one cleaning method I use is to perform one small cleaning task a day. This ensures that things don’t build up over time and you’re left with a mess that can cause anxiety and seem far more overwhelming. Break up your cleaning over the week,  so that you focus on one thing per day.

2. Make it a mindful exercise

If you want to create a more mindful home and lifestyle, your spring-cleaning routine is a great place to start, instead of viewing cleaning as a chore, approach it with a sense of intention.

Put on some calming music, light a scented candle, and focus on the satisfaction of creating a clean and organised space. Don’t push yourself too hard. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. A clean space should support your well-being, not hamper it.

3. Focus on mindful decluttering

Decluttering can be stressful, but there is a great benefit to having fewer items cluttering up counters and cabinets.

The best way to stay on top of things is to have less clutter. By getting rid of things around the house that you don’t use, you’ll have more space and less cleaning to do. Once you’ve done this, you’ll have more time to focus on the important things around your house and ensure that they are always clean and that your rooms are clutter-free.

4. Try the Pomodoro method

Whether you are looking to spring clean your house in one day or are spreading a series of tasks over a few weeks, using something like the Pomodoro timer can ensure that you take frequent breaks to avoid wearing yourself out.

The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. It uses a kitchen timer to break work into intervals, typically 25 minutes in length, separated by short breaks.

For example, set an intention to clear the kitchen set a timer for 25mintues, when it rings stop and rest for 5 minutes then reset repeating this maybe in blocks of 4. Which end up taken 100 minutes of active cleaning time. If you do this once a week, in about a month you’ll see an incredible transformation of your home.

When preparing for spring cleaning, considering a slow cleaning approach from the beginning will help you plan your tasks to ensure you do not miss anything. Even noting down all the areas to do however best work for you room by room or more detailed.

Spring cleaning is a man-made concept and do what is right for you, your times scale and abilities. Get others to help too, let’s make it more fun and enjoyable.   

Want to learn more about decluttering, tidying and organising read this blog too read it here.

If you want more help and support on organising, decluttering, please reach out Contact me

7 Insights into The Psychology of Stuff

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Let’s take a look through the psychology of stuff with seven quirky insights! Get ready for a lighthearted exploration of why we buy and how to resist the urge to splurge.

  1. The Scarcity Loop:

Ever felt like you just had to have something because it felt scarce? Blame it on the “Scarcity Brain” theory. It’s like a whirlwind of impulses, from binge-buying to compulsive snacking, all because we think there’s not enough to go around. But hey, maybe that extra unicorn-shaped mug wasn’t such a necessity after all.

  • Social Comparison Syndrome:

Have you ever scrolled through life and suddenly felt like your life was lacking? Yep, that’s social comparison syndrome at work. Whether it’s fancy cars or exotic vacations, seeing others flaunt their stuff can make us feel like we’re missing out. Remember to be you, live your life your way.

  • Advertising Magic:

Ever been swayed by a catchy jingle or a flashy billboard? Welcome to the world of advertising, where marketers work their magic to make us believe we need things we never knew we wanted. But before you succumb to the hype, ask yourself, do I really need another gadget that does the same thing as my old one?

  • The Quest for Fulfillment:

We’ve all fallen into the trap of thinking that stuff will make us happy. But the truth is, materialism is like a sugar rush – it gives us a quick high but leaves us crashing later. So instead of chasing after possessions, why not focus on experiences that feed the soul? After all, memories last longer than gadgets.

  • FOMO Frenzy:

The fear of missing out can turn even the most sensible person into a compulsive shopper. Thanks to social media, we’re bombarded with images of other people living their best lives, making us feel like we’re missing out on something. But here’s a secret – the grass isn’t always greener on the other side. Sometimes, it’s just artificial turf.

  • Retail Therapy:

 We’ve all indulged in a little retail therapy now and then. But before you go on a spree, ask yourself, will this really make me feel better? Sometimes, a walk in the park or a chat with a friend can lift our spirits more than any purchase ever could.

  • The Hedonic Adaptation:

This is the phenomenon where we quickly get used to the things we once thought would make us happy. But here’s the thing – happiness isn’t about constantly chasing after the next big thing. It’s about appreciating what we have and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life. So let’s kick off our shoes, take a deep breath, and savour the moment.

When we look at our stuff, go shopping think about the above as well as these 3 questions I ask all my declutter clients.

  1. Do I really need it?
  2. Does it give me joy?
  3. Is this item functional in my life?

Check out my download to help you declutter subscribepage.io/getting_started_decluttering

How to know when you need to Declutter?!

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Have you observed a recent increase in clutter around your space and wondered about the telltale signs indicating it’s time for a decluttering session?

Often, clutter accumulates gradually, going unnoticed until it begins affecting mood and daily functioning. Recognizing signs like difficulty in using functional spaces due to clutter can prompt the need for decluttering.

Despite the common belief that clutter only becomes a problem when it’s visibly bad throughout your home, specific indicators suggest that it’s time to regain control over your living space.

Difficulty Finding Items: The gradual accumulation of clutter often sneaks up on you, making it challenging to locate everyday essentials like keys or documents. Establishing a focused approach, such as following a schedule or a decluttering challenge, can prevent feeling overwhelmed.

Prolonged Cleaning and Tidying: If routine cleaning tasks seem to take forever, it’s likely due to an excess of possessions. Even after tidying up, maintaining a clean environment becomes a constant struggle. Excessive clutter complicates cleaning efforts, leading to neglected areas accumulating dust and grime.

Anxiety About Hosting Guests: Feeling embarrassed or stressed about visitors seeing your cluttered home can be draining. Even if they only go into one or two rooms.

Negative Emotional Impact: If being at home evokes feelings of stress or anxiety, it may be due to the cluttered environment. These negative emotions signal a pressing need for decluttering.

Storage Space Overload: When storage areas overflow with items, drawers become jammed, and shelves are overcrowded, it’s a clear indication of having too much stuff.

Cluttered Surfaces: Constant clutter accumulation on surfaces like countertops and desks indicates a need for decluttering to create more functional spaces.

Decluttering Strategies: Instead of attempting to tackle clutter all at once, start with small, manageable tasks to avoid overwhelm. Creating a checklist and addressing one area at a time can streamline the decluttering process.

Acknowledging warning signs of clutter and taking proactive steps to declutter can result in a more organized and tranquil living environment. Once the clutter is addressed, incorporating organising techniques can help maintain a tidy and harmonious space.

Embracing Renewal: Spring Equinox and Feng Shui

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As winter fades away and nature begins to awaken, we find ourselves at a juncture of celestial and philosophical significance: the Spring Equinox. This transitional moment, where day and night are equal in length, symbolizes the emergence of light, growth, and balance. Coincidentally, the principles of Feng Shui, an ancient Chinese practice, also revolve around these very concepts of equilibrium and renewal. In this exploration, we delve into the parallels between the Spring Equinox and Feng Shui, uncovering pathways to embrace renewal and harmony in our lives.

The Spring Equinox: The Spring Equinox marks the official arrival of spring, heralding a season of rejuvenation and vitality. It symbolizes the balance between light and darkness, warmth and cold, as the Earth tilts on its axis, granting equal lengths of day and night across the globe. This celestial event serves as a reminder of nature’s cyclical rhythm, inviting us to shed the dormancy of winter and embrace the promise of new beginnings. Whether through planting seeds, cleansing rituals, or simply basking in the sun’s warmth, the Equinox offers myriad ways to honor the spirit of renewal.

Feng Shui: Derived from ancient Chinese wisdom, Feng Shui is a practice rooted in the belief that our physical environments profoundly influence our well-being and success. At its core lies the principle of Qi, the life force energy that flows through all living things. By harmonizing the flow of Qi within our spaces, Feng Shui seeks to cultivate balance, prosperity, and harmony in our lives. From the strategic arrangement of furniture to the incorporation of elemental symbolism, Feng Shui empowers us to create environments that support our goals and nourish our spirits.

Connecting Spring Equinox and Feng Shui: At first glance, the Spring Equinox and Feng Shui may appear disparate, one rooted in celestial phenomena and the other in spatial design. However, upon closer examination, their underlying principles intertwine harmoniously. Both embody the essence of renewal, inviting us to shed stagnation and embrace growth. By harnessing the energy of the Equinox, we can infuse our Feng Shui practices with a sense of intention and vitality. Whether by decluttering our spaces to welcome the influx of new energy or incorporating symbols of spring into our décor, we align ourselves with the natural rhythms of the universe, fostering balance and abundance in our lives.

As we stand at the threshold of spring, let us heed the whispers of renewal that permeate the air. Through the convergence of the Spring Equinox and Feng Shui, we discover pathways to embrace balance, harmony, and vitality in our lives. As we sow the seeds of intention and nurture the fertile soil of our environments, may we cultivate spaces that reflect our deepest aspirations and nourish our spirits.

In this season of rebirth, let us embark on a journey of transformation, guided by the timeless wisdom of nature and the ancient principles of Feng Shui.

What is the difference between decluttering, tidying, and organising? And which does your home need most?

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These words are often used interchangeably however, decluttering, tidying, and organising are three distinct processes, and understanding the differences is key to maintaining an orderly home.

What is the difference between decluttering, tidying, and organising?

It may seem straightforward to distinguish between these three processes, but the surge in home organising on social media has led to their frequent interchangeability, causing confusion about the complete process necessary for keeping a home tidy.

While jumbling up these terms is not inherently wrong, it can make it more challenging to prevent a house from becoming messy when the steps are mixed up or one is overlooked entirely.

Decluttering

Declutter (verb) – to remove things you do not need from a place, in order to make it more pleasant and more useful.

Decluttering is a process most of us are familiar with, involving the removal of belongings when our homes have accumulated items with no designated places.

Though decluttering is often confused with tidying, some people interpret it as eliminating visible clutter. While decluttering accomplishes this, the focus is on eliminating cluttered items, such as decluttering a closet and donating old clothes to a charity, rather than merely ‘decluttering’ (tidying) a coffee table and returning items like remotes and books to their proper places.

I suggest people declutter and focus on only one space at a time or the process is overwhelming. When you declutter a family room, for instance, you might remove and recycle magazines or catalogues that have been read or are no longer wanted. You declutter a closet or a chest of drawers when it’s difficult to put clothes away or can not easily find items you want.

Organising

Organize verb (MAKE A SYSTEM) – To do or arrange something according to a particular system:

Organising is one of the most satisfying steps and is crucial if you want your house to remain functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Organising goes a bit further. It’s about arranging your belongings logically and efficiently, creating systems that help you find things easily. This is what you do when you want to make your space more functional, like setting up labelled storage bins or arranging your closet.

This step is best performed after you have decluttered and cleared out old belongings that you no longer use. After all, it makes very little sense to try and organise kitchen appliances in a cabinet, so they are easy to use if you haven’t decluttered a kitchen first to make space and clear out appliances you no longer use.

Tidying

Tidy- tidy adjective (ORDERED)- having everything ordered and arranged in the right place, or liking to keep things like this:

Tidying is the final step in keeping a house neat and is often confused with organising. You should avoid tidying before you have a good home organising system in place; otherwise, you will be trying to stash away belongings that don’t have a proper home – essentially just moving messes around.

Tidying becomes necessary when things are not put back correctly, leading to a disorganised environment. Regular tidying sessions prevent the need for extensive decluttering and organising efforts by maintaining order on an ongoing basis, e.g. you have tidied the coffee table or the children’s bedroom.

Why it’s important to use the right process.

Using the appropriate term for the specific task you’re undertaking is essential for achieving your desired results and avoiding unnecessary pitfalls. Applying excessive decluttering without considering the value and usefulness of items can lead to regrets later.

Items might be put away, but if they lack designated spaces, you’ll find yourself back in disarray soon. Ensure your tidying efforts are supported by proper organisation techniques, and it will even help you to clean a house fast, too.

Think of the process like this.

Once you have decluttered, then organised, and set up systems to best suit you, remember to do the regular tidying. If things start to build up again another declutter will be needed. However, I do recommend all my clients to regularly declutter even if it is just in line with summer and winter.

So, ultimately your home needs all of these three but you must start with the decluttering to make the whole process much easier.

Transformative Journey: How Decluttering Revolutionised My Life and Freed My Mind

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Over a decade ago, my decluttering journey began as a response to a life-changing event—my divorce. Little did I know that embarking on this path of organisation would lead me to profound realisations about the freedom and mental well-being that come with simplifying not just physical possessions but also finances.

The Initial Hesitations:

Initiating the decluttering process stirred a mix of excitement and nervousness. Fears and questions loomed, such as the worry of regretting letting go, the uncertainty of future needs, and the emotional attachment to belongings. Perhaps you can relate to these common concerns that often accompany the decision to declutter.

Facing Fears and Embracing Change:

Contrary to my initial apprehensions, the fears weren’t justified. Letting go of possessions didn’t result in regret, and the “just in case” scenarios never materialised. Instead, I discovered that owning less brought unexpected happiness, leading to newfound freedom in various aspects of my life.

The Liberating Benefits:

Decluttering became a catalyst for freedom, allowing me to spend quality time with loved ones, delve into hobbies, savour simple pleasures, and align my life with core values. The journey taught me that less truly equates to more in terms of fulfilment.

Top Tips for Regret-Free Decluttering:

Start Small, Take Your Time:

Begin with manageable tasks like decluttering a bookshelf or a section of your closet. Starting small builds momentum, boosts confidence, and helps overcome initial fears. Need help starting check out how to get started decluttering

Capture Memories, Release Possessions:

Photographing items can ease the emotional attachment, providing a visual reminder of the joy they once brought. It also serves as documentation of your decluttering progress.

Experiment with a Time-Limited Approach:

If immediate letting go is challenging, consider a 30-60 day experiment. Box up items you’re unsure about, and if they go unnoticed, it becomes easier to part with them.

Donate or Sell with Purpose:

Selling or donating books and possessions ensures they find new homes where they can continue to bring joy. Explore platforms like Ziffit to sell items and use the proceeds for meaningful purposes.

Swedish Death Cleaning Wisdom:

Embrace the concept of Swedish Death Cleaning, a method focused on decluttering to ease the burden on loved ones after one’s passing. This mindful approach encourages intentional living and letting go of unnecessary possessions. Learn more here. Link here: https://www.thespruce.com/swedish-death-cleaning-4801461   

Book: https://amzn.to/3NVs9qS

Balance Usefulness and Sentimentality:

Before parting with an item, assess its usefulness and emotional significance. Give away items not used regularly, and for sentimental items, consider a waiting period before making a decision.

Expressing Gratitude:

Gratitude serves as a powerful mindset during the decluttering process. Focusing on the benefits of a minimalist home fosters a sense of contentment and eliminates regrets.

Remember, decluttering is a personal journey, not a race.

Take your time, set your own pace, and embrace the transformative power of living with intention. If you need assistance on your decluttering journey, feel free to Reach out here.

Your path to a clutter-free, fulfilling life awaits!

Love and light Steph x

Embracing the Wood Dragon: A Renewed Spirit for Chinese New Year

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As the lunar calendar turns another page, millions around the world prepare to usher in the Chinese New Year with vibrant celebrations, rich traditions, and a sense of renewed hope. This year holds special significance as we welcome the Wood Dragon, a symbol of strength, growth, and adaptability. In this blog post, let’s explore the essence of the Chinese New Year and delve into the unique qualities associated with the Wood Dragon.

The Chinese New Year: 10th Feb 2024.

Also known as the Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year is one of the most important and widely celebrated festivals in the world. It marks the beginning of the lunar new year and is steeped in centuries-old traditions and customs. Families come together for reunion dinners, homes are adorned with red decorations symbolising good luck, and the air is filled with the crackling sounds of fireworks.

The Chinese zodiac, consisting of twelve animals, assigns each year to a specific animal sign, along with one of the five elements – wood, fire, earth, metal, and water. The combination of the animal and element creates a unique energy that shapes the characteristics of the year. This year, the spotlight is on the Wood Dragon, offering a distinctive blend of vitality and resilience.

The Wood Dragon:

The Dragon is a mythical creature in Chinese culture, symbolising power, good fortune, and success. When combined with the Wood element, it adds layers of growth, flexibility, and renewal. The Wood Dragon is associated with the energy of a flourishing forest, representing strength that comes from adaptability and perseverance.

Characteristics of the Wood Dragon include creativity, innovation, and a strong sense of justice. This combination fosters a spirit of renewal and the ability to navigate challenges with grace and agility. People born in the Year of the Wood Dragon are believed to be charismatic, ambitious, and compassionate, embodying the spirit of leadership and growth.

Celebrating the Wood Dragon:

As we embark on the journey of the Wood Dragon, there are various ways to infuse this energy into our lives. Consider incorporating natural elements like wood and greenery into your home decor to create a harmonious and revitalising environment. Engage in activities that promote personal and professional growth, tapping into the dynamic energy of the Wood Dragon.

Participate in traditional Chinese New Year festivities, such as dragon and lion dances, parades, and lantern festivals, to absorb the positive vibes of the season. Embrace the spirit of unity and family, as these are key aspects of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Conclusion:

The Chinese New Year, with the arrival of the Wood Dragon, brings a sense of renewal, growth, and adaptability. It is a time to reflect on the past, embrace the present, and look forward to the future with optimism. As we celebrate the richness of Chinese culture and the symbolic qualities of the Wood Dragon, let us welcome the new year with open hearts, ready to face the challenges ahead and embrace the opportunities for growth and transformation.

Packing away Christmas

| steffybot

Happy New Year!

As we welcome the fresh beginnings of 2023, I hope this email finds you in good health and high spirits.

January is a month of new opportunities and a perfect time to align our energies for a harmonious and prosperous year ahead. Let’s embark on this journey together, although our official new Year is not until February 2024 along with the start of Spring.

So keep enjoying this next month as still time to rest, carry on hibernating and organising the home from the Christmas festivities.

Speaking of organising from Christmas here are my top tips.

Organising Christmas decorations may seem like a daunting task, especially with the memories attached to each ornament and string of lights. However, with a strategic approach and a sprinkle of festive spirit, the process can be both efficient and enjoyable.

Take Inventory:

Begin by gathering all your Christmas decorations in one central location. As you pack each box, take inventory of your items. Discard any broken or irreparable decorations and make a note of what needs replacement for next year, if at all to replace.

Sort and Categorize:

Sort your decorations into categories such as ornaments, lights, tree accessories, wreaths, and figurines. This step makes it easier to store and locate items when the next holiday season arrives. Consider using labelled containers or clear bins to keep categories distinct.

Wrap and Pack with Care:

For delicate ornaments, invest in storage containers with individual compartments or wrap each ornament in tissue paper or bubble wrap. Fragile items, such as glass ornaments or heirloom pieces, benefit from extra padding to prevent breakage.

Manage Lights Effectively:

Avoid the frustrating tangle of lights next year by using a spool or wrapping them around pieces of cardboard. Ensure each strand is in working condition before storing, and label them according to where they were used (e.g., tree, exterior, indoor).

Utilize Storage Solutions:

Maximize space and protect your decorations by investing in purpose-built storage solutions. Consider stackable bins, ornament organizers, and wreath storage containers to keep everything tidy and secure during the off-season.

Label Everything:

Labelling is key to a stress-free decorating experience the following year. Clearly mark each storage container with its contents to easily identify what’s inside. This saves time and prevents the need to open multiple boxes in search of a specific item.

Create a Designated Storage Area:

Designate a specific area in your home where all Christmas decorations will be stored. This could be a closet, attic, or basement. Having a dedicated space streamlines the process and ensures everything is in one place.

Donate or Repurpose:

Consider donating decorations that no longer align with your style or that you’ve outgrown. Alternatively, get creative and find new uses for old items. Turn worn-out ornaments into unique DIY crafts or repurpose them for other festive occasions.

Organizing Christmas decorations may mark the end of the holiday season, but it also sets the stage for a seamless and joyful start to the next one.

By taking the time to carefully pack away each item, you not only preserve the magic of your holiday memories but also make the decorating process for the coming year a delightful experience.

So, wrap up the season with love and care, and let the anticipation for next year’s festivities begin!