Day 97 of 100
I am sure many of you have heard of the Broken Window Theory, made popular by Mayor Giuliani. Its basic premise is that by fixing the small things, it keeps them from building up, getting worse and compounding. A building with a broken window, if not repaired is more likely to be vandalized, leading to break ins and further damage and destruction. So by fixing the small things, ie: the broken window, quickly, further damage is avoided.
I really believe this theory to be true when it comes to our clutter. Think about how when you make your bed first thing in the morning, your bedroom automatically stays neater. You are much more likely to hang up and put away clothing, rather than flinging it on the bed.
Or, if you have you have emptied the dishwasher and wiped the kitchen counters,you are much more likely to put the dirty dishes away, rather than them piling in the sink.
Think about how piles seem to be magnets for more stuff of all varieties. If you keep a pile from starting in the first place it prevents clutter from accumulating.
Also, by decluttering the small stuff, it really adds up and prevents a much bigger problem down the road!
So go ahead and apply the broken window theory to your decluttering and transform your home one "window" at a time!
Monday, April 12, 2010
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Success Sunday
Day 96 of 100
Today I thought I'd share the success I have had in "decluttering" myself of my cell phone while in the driver's seat. As I posted previously, I thought lent to be a good time to start. I have to admit, at first it felt very awkward. Not using it to make a call out was one thing, but not answering it was even more difficult. It made me realize how dependent I was of the constant stimulation, as I could have a conversation with virtually anyone at any time.
Statistics always show the higher rates of accidents but I wonder about how many people get lost, take the wrong turn, forget where they are going or go much longer routes because they are so engaged in conversation. I know some people are proud to be multitaskers and perhaps somethings allow for this. However, when you are operating a 3,500 pound vehicle full of precious cargo, should you really be multitasking?
Because my job requires multiple phone conversations among many people, I wasn't sure what impact it would have when I decided to hang up and not talk while driving. What I discovered instead was that much of these calls were superfluous and that when made during non-driving time, they could be much more to the point.
Occasionally, I have needed to stop to take an important call or make one to say I am running late. But on the whole, the impact has only been positive. I can truly say I do not miss it! I feel like I have bought myself some quiet time each day!
Only a few days left in the challenge...go find some clutter!
Today I thought I'd share the success I have had in "decluttering" myself of my cell phone while in the driver's seat. As I posted previously, I thought lent to be a good time to start. I have to admit, at first it felt very awkward. Not using it to make a call out was one thing, but not answering it was even more difficult. It made me realize how dependent I was of the constant stimulation, as I could have a conversation with virtually anyone at any time.
Statistics always show the higher rates of accidents but I wonder about how many people get lost, take the wrong turn, forget where they are going or go much longer routes because they are so engaged in conversation. I know some people are proud to be multitaskers and perhaps somethings allow for this. However, when you are operating a 3,500 pound vehicle full of precious cargo, should you really be multitasking?
Because my job requires multiple phone conversations among many people, I wasn't sure what impact it would have when I decided to hang up and not talk while driving. What I discovered instead was that much of these calls were superfluous and that when made during non-driving time, they could be much more to the point.
Occasionally, I have needed to stop to take an important call or make one to say I am running late. But on the whole, the impact has only been positive. I can truly say I do not miss it! I feel like I have bought myself some quiet time each day!
Only a few days left in the challenge...go find some clutter!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Tim the Declutter-er
Day 95 of 100
With only 5 days left in the Clutter Challenge, the Simpson Family has been busy! Specifically, Tim has been busy decluttering. Yesterday he sold a coin collection that he had been hanging on to for years. It was something that interested him at one time, but due to multiple hobbies and interests, particularly his reptile collection, it had not been pursued. He sold the collection to a co-worker who was very excited to expand his collection. He will treasure and honor these coins and they will be appreciated! Tim is putting the money from the sale towards an Emerald Tree Boa, a snake he has talked about getting since we began dating, 24 years ago!
He also went to the dump today with a truck load of stuff! He cleaned out his work room and had a ton of trash and wood. In addition, we recently had 5 trees taken down in the back yard and he has been busy cutting up and chopping all the wood. So not only are we decluttering the house but also the yard!
What do you hope to tackle in the nest few days!
With only 5 days left in the Clutter Challenge, the Simpson Family has been busy! Specifically, Tim has been busy decluttering. Yesterday he sold a coin collection that he had been hanging on to for years. It was something that interested him at one time, but due to multiple hobbies and interests, particularly his reptile collection, it had not been pursued. He sold the collection to a co-worker who was very excited to expand his collection. He will treasure and honor these coins and they will be appreciated! Tim is putting the money from the sale towards an Emerald Tree Boa, a snake he has talked about getting since we began dating, 24 years ago!
He also went to the dump today with a truck load of stuff! He cleaned out his work room and had a ton of trash and wood. In addition, we recently had 5 trees taken down in the back yard and he has been busy cutting up and chopping all the wood. So not only are we decluttering the house but also the yard!
What do you hope to tackle in the nest few days!
Friday, April 9, 2010
Soccer Season
Day of 94 of 100
Tim can't believe what a huge soccer fan I have become. When we met, I didn't know the difference between a baseball, basketball or football. Well, that may be an exaggeration, but I knew nothing about these sports and could have cared less. I still do not care to watch any of the above listed sports, (I realize that some GA football fans consider this to be a sin) but I have come to love the game of soccer! The love of my children and watching them play was how it started, but it has evolved to something that I truly enjoy. This is good, as we often find ourselves at the soccer fields many an evening. In an 11 day stretch the week before last, we had 9 games, 8 High School and Timothy's first Rec game. This doesn't include practices or any other activities. As much fun as we have had cheering from the stands, we have been so busy and everyone is exhausted! I honestly do not know how my high school-er has done it between all the games, school work and extra curricular activities.
As much as I love soccer, it is a good thing it is a seasonal sport. Two of the boys play in the Fall and Spring. It is intense for a few months and then there is a break. During "off season" they continue to exercise and stay fit, but the intensity is turned down. For them and for our family, this is a good thing. We could not do this year round. Bodies need a break, my house needs to be cleaned, chores need to be done, etc. Like many things in life, you appreciate something when it is not there all the time. How I look forward to the new season after a break!
Are you hanging on to things in your life, that have outlived their purpose, time or season?
Do you have items from when your children were young? Unless they are sentimental, don't kid your self thinking that your kids will be glad you saved their swing, bouncy seat or exersaucer. By the time your child has a child, they will be either antiquated or recalled. The new ones will probably be voice activated and levitate, as they gently lull the baby to sleep. Your old one will not compete.
What about items from a craft/project you had always thought would be fun to begin, but never did. Or perhaps you did and realized it wasn't for you. Preparing to do something can sometimes be part of the fun. However, sometimes we realize after amassing large amounts of materials, we really are not that interested.
How about clothing that has never fit? Or “big” clothes that you are hanging on to “just in case” you gain back the weight. I don't know about you, but this seems like bad Karma to me. Does your clothing match your style of life as it is now? Styles change and what we feel comfortable in and look good in changes as well.
Look at the season you are in NOW and make your home match it, by letting go of the “out of season” items standing in your way!
Tim can't believe what a huge soccer fan I have become. When we met, I didn't know the difference between a baseball, basketball or football. Well, that may be an exaggeration, but I knew nothing about these sports and could have cared less. I still do not care to watch any of the above listed sports, (I realize that some GA football fans consider this to be a sin) but I have come to love the game of soccer! The love of my children and watching them play was how it started, but it has evolved to something that I truly enjoy. This is good, as we often find ourselves at the soccer fields many an evening. In an 11 day stretch the week before last, we had 9 games, 8 High School and Timothy's first Rec game. This doesn't include practices or any other activities. As much fun as we have had cheering from the stands, we have been so busy and everyone is exhausted! I honestly do not know how my high school-er has done it between all the games, school work and extra curricular activities.
As much as I love soccer, it is a good thing it is a seasonal sport. Two of the boys play in the Fall and Spring. It is intense for a few months and then there is a break. During "off season" they continue to exercise and stay fit, but the intensity is turned down. For them and for our family, this is a good thing. We could not do this year round. Bodies need a break, my house needs to be cleaned, chores need to be done, etc. Like many things in life, you appreciate something when it is not there all the time. How I look forward to the new season after a break!
Are you hanging on to things in your life, that have outlived their purpose, time or season?
Do you have items from when your children were young? Unless they are sentimental, don't kid your self thinking that your kids will be glad you saved their swing, bouncy seat or exersaucer. By the time your child has a child, they will be either antiquated or recalled. The new ones will probably be voice activated and levitate, as they gently lull the baby to sleep. Your old one will not compete.
What about items from a craft/project you had always thought would be fun to begin, but never did. Or perhaps you did and realized it wasn't for you. Preparing to do something can sometimes be part of the fun. However, sometimes we realize after amassing large amounts of materials, we really are not that interested.
How about clothing that has never fit? Or “big” clothes that you are hanging on to “just in case” you gain back the weight. I don't know about you, but this seems like bad Karma to me. Does your clothing match your style of life as it is now? Styles change and what we feel comfortable in and look good in changes as well.
Look at the season you are in NOW and make your home match it, by letting go of the “out of season” items standing in your way!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Basement Bliss
Day 93 of 100
After an initial tackle of the basement a while back, I had put it on hold while decluttering other areas of our home. Even though we use it all the time, because I do not see it like the rest of the house, it tends to be neglected. This week with us all being home for Spring Break, we were in the basement a lot watching movies. So, this afternoon, after a busy morning out, we began part 2 of the Basement Declutter.
I was so surprised! It really was not much! The first attack had taken care of the more obvious clutter. Much of what needed to be done centered around sorting and putting things away where they belonged. The younger boys did gather a pile of toys and toy parts to be thrown away and several items hit my Goodwill pile. In addition, we reclaimed some of the space by rearranging some furniture, making the TV room more functional and able to sit more people comfortably. Other than my sewing corner which I am in the process of claiming, we probably need about 30 more minutes and everything will be done!
Tim has been out of town all week and surprised us by coming home tonight rather than Friday. He was pleased with how much progress we made!
We are getting close to the end of our Clutter Challenge! Only 7 days left! How are you doing? Is there an area you have been avoiding? Go ahead and tackle it! I bet it isn't as bad as you think it will be and just think of the finished result!
After an initial tackle of the basement a while back, I had put it on hold while decluttering other areas of our home. Even though we use it all the time, because I do not see it like the rest of the house, it tends to be neglected. This week with us all being home for Spring Break, we were in the basement a lot watching movies. So, this afternoon, after a busy morning out, we began part 2 of the Basement Declutter.
I was so surprised! It really was not much! The first attack had taken care of the more obvious clutter. Much of what needed to be done centered around sorting and putting things away where they belonged. The younger boys did gather a pile of toys and toy parts to be thrown away and several items hit my Goodwill pile. In addition, we reclaimed some of the space by rearranging some furniture, making the TV room more functional and able to sit more people comfortably. Other than my sewing corner which I am in the process of claiming, we probably need about 30 more minutes and everything will be done!
Tim has been out of town all week and surprised us by coming home tonight rather than Friday. He was pleased with how much progress we made!
We are getting close to the end of our Clutter Challenge! Only 7 days left! How are you doing? Is there an area you have been avoiding? Go ahead and tackle it! I bet it isn't as bad as you think it will be and just think of the finished result!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Soaking up the minutes!
Day 92 of 100
When visiting families of young children, I often remind the moms how quickly this period of time in their lives will be. I tell them that I know it is hard to comprehend, but one day they will turn around and their children will be teenagers. When you have a colicky baby and a teething two year old and it has been raining for 4 days, your house is turned upside down and your husband is working late again, it is very hard to remember that this! But it is a short season in your and your child's life. Remembering this can help you keep perspective and patience and help you to soak up every minute!
Make what matters first priority. By letting go of the excess in out lives, we can allow more time for what is important NOW!
Only 8 days left in our challenge: Go find 10 or more!
When visiting families of young children, I often remind the moms how quickly this period of time in their lives will be. I tell them that I know it is hard to comprehend, but one day they will turn around and their children will be teenagers. When you have a colicky baby and a teething two year old and it has been raining for 4 days, your house is turned upside down and your husband is working late again, it is very hard to remember that this! But it is a short season in your and your child's life. Remembering this can help you keep perspective and patience and help you to soak up every minute!
Make what matters first priority. By letting go of the excess in out lives, we can allow more time for what is important NOW!
Only 8 days left in our challenge: Go find 10 or more!
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Chores
Day 91 of 100
Is there a chore you really dread doing? What about it do you dislike? Can you pinpoint exactly why you don't like doing it? How long do you think it takes you to do it “well enough”?
Really put some thought into this. See if any of the following could be applied to you and your dreaded chore:
*We can choose to think about it differently/re-frame it, approaching it with an attitude of “choosing' to do it rather than having to.
*Use a timer: Once we know exactly how long the job really takes, often we will find that the chore at hand actually takes significantly less time than we thought it does. Knowing this will make it much more bearable. Set a timer and try and beat the clock. Remember when you were a child and your parents would say they would count while you did something you didn't want to do? It worked then and can work now!
*We can figure out a way to do it differently, making it more manageable or enjoyable. ie: Turn on music and dance, listen to a book on tape or learn a foreign language while cleaning. Call an friend on speaker phone or watch a favorite TV program or movie you have taped while ironing.
*Can steps in the chore be eliminated all together? Are we doing something in a way that wastes time or is inefficient just because that is how we always have done it?
*Can it be done smarter? Think smarter, not harder. So often we could make what we do easier if we put some thought into it.
*We can figure out a way not to do it. Is it a necessary chore like grocery shopping or is it something that could be left undone? Decide what is important to you. Everyone's list will be different. We could figure out how to delegate or trade this chore with a family member or could consider paying someone else to do it.
Very rarely is there nothing that can be done. So rather than mope or procrastinate, put your mind to it and see how you can transform that dreaded chore!
Is there a chore you really dread doing? What about it do you dislike? Can you pinpoint exactly why you don't like doing it? How long do you think it takes you to do it “well enough”?
Really put some thought into this. See if any of the following could be applied to you and your dreaded chore:
*We can choose to think about it differently/re-frame it, approaching it with an attitude of “choosing' to do it rather than having to.
*Use a timer: Once we know exactly how long the job really takes, often we will find that the chore at hand actually takes significantly less time than we thought it does. Knowing this will make it much more bearable. Set a timer and try and beat the clock. Remember when you were a child and your parents would say they would count while you did something you didn't want to do? It worked then and can work now!
*We can figure out a way to do it differently, making it more manageable or enjoyable. ie: Turn on music and dance, listen to a book on tape or learn a foreign language while cleaning. Call an friend on speaker phone or watch a favorite TV program or movie you have taped while ironing.
*Can steps in the chore be eliminated all together? Are we doing something in a way that wastes time or is inefficient just because that is how we always have done it?
*Can it be done smarter? Think smarter, not harder. So often we could make what we do easier if we put some thought into it.
*We can figure out a way not to do it. Is it a necessary chore like grocery shopping or is it something that could be left undone? Decide what is important to you. Everyone's list will be different. We could figure out how to delegate or trade this chore with a family member or could consider paying someone else to do it.
Very rarely is there nothing that can be done. So rather than mope or procrastinate, put your mind to it and see how you can transform that dreaded chore!
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