When I meet someone new at a networking function and tell them I am a Professional Organizer, their first question is “Have you watched Marie Kondo on Netflix?” I have to admit I have not, but I have seen all of the news coverage about Goodwills being overwhelmed by donations and they are calling it the “Kondo Effect”.
If you are watching Marie Kondo and are letting go of your CRAP (Clutter that Robs Anyone of Pleasure), that’s great! One of my clients told me her sock drawer has never looked better. And that’s the whole idea, take it one sock drawer, one cabinet, one small area at a time. Here are a few things to think about as you clear the clutter:
Identify what you love. If your stuff does not bring you joy, pleasure or usefulness, it could be CRAP. In other words, as Marie Kondo says, if it doesn’t spark joy, it should go. Also, retail or market value is irrelevant; just because you paid a lot for something doesn’t mean it can’t be CRAP.
Think about the future. Think about your goals, where you want to be in five years, and identify the clutter that does not fit into those goals. Your CRAP could be preventing you from living your best life.
Memories and stuff. Everyone has memories that may fill drawers, closets or rooms and letting it go can be tough. But many of my clients have decided to record those memories by taking pictures of the items instead of allowing them to continue to take up space. Some people have t-shirts and clothing made into keepsakes and pillows so they can honor the items instead of shoving them in the attic or basement. In other words, photograph it, honor it or let it go. If you don’t let it go, who will have to do it when you are gone?
How to Donate and Recycle your CRAP in Berks County and Beyond.
Your CRAP could be another person’s treasure!
You can donate or recycle just about anything and there are many agencies who could use your unneeded stuff.
Click here for a two-sided flier on all the places in Berks County and beyond that I donate items to for my clients.
If you live outside Berks County, click here for a more general donation flier.
So regardless of whether it’s the Kondo effect or your Clutter is Robbing you of Pleasure, do it your way; donate, sell, and recycle with reckless abandon. Jami Lin, Feng Shui consultant said: “The less clutter you have, the more your favorite items can be featured and radiate their life-enhancing energies.”
