Why 10?

Who hasn't ever started a big project with a bang, only to become overwhelmed and quit? Often, this is what happens with resolutions. You exercise so much the first three days that on day four, you can barely get out of bed and by day 5 you tell yourself you will start back next week. Three weeks pass and you have all but forgotten your resolution or worse feel like a loser because you were unable to keep it. By keeping the steps small and manageable, you are more likely to continue and reach your goal.

This doesn't mean that you have to stop at 10 items. If one day, you are on a roll and in the mode, go for it! Just remember, and this is very important, you still have to do 10 tomorrow. It is like compounding of interest, each little bit, added each day, makes a much bigger impact in the long run.

Caveat:
If you travel regularly or have the kind of schedule that makes it difficult to do this daily, pick a day of the week that you can do the amount of items for the week (7 days x 10 items day= 70 items/week). The biggest concern with this method is burnout and not following through. If you have to do this, try and at least find one or two small items each day to declutter to keep you in the mode.

Tell your friends, family and co-workers. Make it a real challenge! When you tell others what you are doing, it motivates you and makes you more accountable! Spread the word!