Clutter Free For the Rest of Your Life

Is it really possible to be clutter free for the rest of your life?  Forever?  Yes, it is possible with a few simple steps it is possible for you.  Here's the plan:

1)  Stop of flow of new items into the home

• Every purchase is well thought out and planned.
• Have your kids make Christmas and birthday gift list ideas. Instead of always saying no you can encourage them to add it to one of their lists.
• Suggest non-toy items for gifts.  Gift cards or memberships are great because they encourage family experiences.  Time together is always better than more stuff!
• Make a 30 day purchase list.  Put it on the list and evaluate the items after 30 days.  This helps with impulse and emotional buying decisions.
• Say no when people offer you free items.  Unless you REALLY need it.  Nothing is free and it just may add to the clutter you are looking to be rid of.
• If at all possible limit buying clothes to a few months out of the year.  I once saw a suggestion of purchasing in May and August.  In May you buy next size winter clearance and fill in any spring or summer stuff you need.  In August buy summer clearance for next year and fill in any fall or winter items you don't have.  

2)  Purge

• Be ruthless when you do this activity.
• Categorize into keep, donate, sell, trash, relocate.
• Is it beautiful or useful? If the answer is no then it does not stay.

3)  Set yourself limits

• Limit the number of hangers in the closet.
• Develop a one in one out mindset.
• Become a family of one (within reason). One hat, winter coat, set of boots, scissors, bike and  swimsuit.  When it wears out then replace it.
• Limit toys!  

4)  Purchase quality over quantity

• Read the reviews on items before you purchase.  I never buy anything under four stars.  By doing this I suffer very little buyer's remorse.
• If its well made you can pass it down through your children.

The number one thing is to limit what is coming into your home.  Start today by really paying attention to new items entering the door.  Go on a spending freeze for one month if you need to. Spring is the perfect time to clean out and become one step closer to being clutter free!