Who says decluttering and deep cleaning is only for the Spring? As Fall sets in, I am craving cozy nights at home, and spending more time indoors means living up close and personal with the clutter that has accumulated over the last year...not to mention all of the extra clothes, books, crafting supplies, and knick knacks moved over from my previous apartment. There are boxes that have yet to be unpacked, items stored away after the move that haven't been looked at again since, and an obscene amount of clothing that is rarely if ever worn. It's time to get down right brutal and cut the fat.
So...this October, I am challenging myself to purge it all in my own Project Downsize. I started a few years ago in my tiny apartment just to make some room for me to live there as well. This time, it's not just about getting rid of clutter. It is about creating a home that reflects the lifestyle that we want to live going forward into 2017. It's about freeing up space for creativity and comfort to flow. It's about being happy and fulfilled humans in our humble abode.
Here's what is on the project list so far...
- Go through ALL clothes and donate anything that doesn't fit or hasn't been worn in a year.
- Go through ALL accessories and sell/donate everything that is no longer worn.
- Go through shoes and donate any that haven't been worn in a year.
- Sell or donate all appliances that are no longer used or had/need an upgrade
- Go through all boxes in the attic and repack anything to be kept in labeled totes.
- Clear out the guest bedroom. Paint and redecorate with only items that bring calm & joy
- Clear out the guest bedroom closet and use only 1/2 of the closet for seasonal clothing, keepsakes, and gift wrapping supplies. The rest should be open for guest use.
- Clean out the bathroom vanity and toss any old or empty products.
- Clear out the office closet and only put back in crafting items I will use. Donate the rest.
- Organize the office and make space for creative projects and yoga/meditation.
- Go through the boxes of books and organize into Read/Donate/Sell.
- Organize computer files and delete anything no longer needed.
- Scan important documents into electronic format and store in a secure location
- Clean out personal email inbox and unsubscribe from newsletters
- Decorate the bedroom. Add new sheets. Organize, update nightstands. Organize dresser.
- Build a bookcase/door for the entry closet and decorate.
- When everything above is done...have the professionals come and clean!
I've gotten a headstart on a few things over the last few weeks.
- Organize laundry room, including storage cabinets
- Go through pantry, toss expired items, and donate any non-perishable goods.
- Organize the hall linen closet.
As you can see I have ALOT to do! With 16 items and only 4 weeks, I better get busy and see how far I get during October. I'll be using my bullet journal to track progress and plan on sharing before/afters & lessons learned here along the way.
It's going to feel SO good when this is done and our house is organized and clean! All the physical baggage will be gone and I will be ready for anything! If you would like to join me with your own organization or decluttering project, use #projectdownsize2016 to tag your posts on social media.
I feel lighter already!