Rita Wilkins's Blog, page 22

Decluttering Tips: Learn The Minimalist Essentials

What To Do If You Have Too Much Stuff, Not Enough Space 

A common issue for many individuals is the issue of clutter. You may ask yourself – what is clutter? Clutter is an unorganized, messy accumulation of things. If you find that your home is cluttered with too much stuff, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Clutter can make your home feel chaotic. With the right minimalist decluttering methods, you can free yourself from the chaos of clutter. 

Don’t Back Down From A Decluttering Challenge 

Hi, it’s Rita. As the Downsizing Designer, I understand what it’s like to feel intimidated by clutter. You may long for a minimalist lifestyle, but the simplicity you seek can’t be accomplished without decluttering. If you’ve never decluttered before, if you don’t know how to get started or stay motivated while decluttering, you may find yourself frozen and unable to begin. Don’t worry – you don’t have to figure out how to declutter on your own. I’m here to help! 

Decluttering Tips And Minimalist Essentials 

Decluttering doesn’t mean getting rid of everything you own. Decluttering is more about thoughtfully sorting through your belongings so you can decide what you really need and want. Once you know this, it’s easier to get rid of the things you don’t need or want. 

Learn Minimalist Essentials Today 

You can learn how to let go of items when you learn more about decluttering methods. Finding the decluttering methods that resonate with you can make your decluttering challenge seem much more doable. When you’re ready to learn more, visit the Design Services online store and check out my minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Decluttering Tips: Learn The Minimalist Essentials  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

It’s Decluttering Season: Top 3 Secrets to Help You Love Your Home Again!

Embrace the Beauty of Autumn

It’s fall. A new season.

It’s time to enjoy being outside in nature, taking long walks and just enjoying the magnificent color of autumn leaves.

It’s also a time when on the first rainy day we might scramble to change out clothing in our closets from summer to winter.

And it’s also time to declutter our homes in preparation for the upcoming holidays. 

Rediscover the Joy of a Clutter-Free and Inviting Space

As you look around your house, you might be semi-disgusted and certainly overwhelmed at the amount of clutter that you’ve allowed to build up. Even to the extent that you might say, “I hate this mess, I hate this house.”

If you find yourself hating the home you once loved, how do you get that “loving feeling” back? How do you experience your home like it’s new to you again?

I suggest you start by remembering falling in love with your home the first time you saw it. Remember, it was perfect! It was exactly what you always wanted!  

Fast forward. As time passed, it got cluttered, then even more cluttered. When you were raising your kids, you didn’t have much time to declutter. But now the kids are grown out of the house. (But maybe their stuff is still hiding in your basement or their old bedroom)

Your life has changed. Your Home Needs to Change Too.

Your wants and needs have changed, but it’s the same old house. Everything about the house remains the same. Your house needs to change with you and your changing lifestyle.

Obviously, it’s not feasible to move to a new house whenever your life changes. (Empty nest or retirement.) But there are a few things you can do right now to satisfy your current needs so you can fall in love with your home all over again by making your space work for you, your current needs, and your desires. This can be done by changing a few things in your existing space at literally no cost. All it will take is a little bit of your time, energy, and elbow grease.

My top 3 secrets to help you love your home again.Secret Number 1: The Big Purge. Settle For Less Stuff.

Take time to declutter your entire house, removing anything you no longer want, need, or use.

This is a perfect opportunity for you to:

Uncover the home you once loved underneath all of that stuff!Take back control of your home by minimizing your excess possessions.Remember, the less stuff you own, the more space you’ll actually have to focus on creating the new home you really want.

There are many life-giving benefits of owning less, and being content with what you have. When you declutter and let go of your excess possessions, you’ll lighten the load so you have less stuff and more life.

Secret Number 2: Rethink, Reimagine, Re-Purpose Existing Space

As an interior designer for over 40 years, this is one of my favorite things to do with clients. 

First, identify areas of your home that you are no longer in love with and that no longer fit your current needs and lifestyle.

Then, make a detailed list of each area by asking the following questions:

Why don’t you love the space anymore? Why isn’t it working for you now?What do you need and want the space to do for you that would make you love it again?What do you need to do to make that happen?

For example:

You work from home most of the time and you are still working from your dining room/dining table just like you did during Covid.

It’s not working because you can’t separate work life from home life and your spouse complains because of the mess. Besides, you have difficulty concentrating.

You want and need a dedicated home office, a place to work, where you can close the door, and have quiet, uninterrupted space you need to be productive.

In other words, if you don’t like how certain areas of your home are not working, identify how you can rethink, reimagine, and find a new purpose for that area that is not used or not will be used.

An example:

Your adult child’s bedroom is the perfect “found space” that will easily provide for your current needs.

All that needs to be done is to have your adult child remove anything they want, then donate or dispose of the rest. Then, you can claim that space as your new home office, one that you will love going to each day!

Secret Number 3: Create Your Own New “Lifestyle Space”

What is a “Lifestyle Space?”

It is a space that is unique to you, to your specific wants, needs, and wish list.It is a clearly defined space or zone with a specific purpose for specific activities.It is one that can be carved out within your existing home for a little or no cost.It is one that is intended to enhance the quality of your life when you are in that space.A few examples of lifestyle spaces:A Clutter-free zone.

This is a space where clutter is not allowed, one that everyone understands the rules and agrees to abide by them.

It is intended to generate a sense of peace, calm, and contentment.

An Unplugged space

This space is free from any distractions. TVs, phones, and computers are off-limits.

It is a space that invites conversation, fun, and quality time together.

A Sanctuary space

This is a special, almost sacred space for you to get away and escape to within your own home.

It is intended to provide a quiet space for time alone, to think, read, write, journal, listen to music, to get refreshed and inspired.

These are just a few ideas for lifestyle spaces that you can create within your own home. They will cost you little or nothing and you can create them right now.

Each of these 3 secrets gives you an opportunity to redesign space within your existing home, and create the home you really want and need right now, one that will help you fall in love with your home all over again!

Here are a few Amazon products that I recommend and use myself when I declutter or create new spaces.  

FYI, full disclosure, I am an Amazon affiliate, which means I get a small commission if you purchase an item using my link. But just so you know, it doesn’t change the price that you would otherwise pay if you were to go directly to Amazon.

iRobot Roomba 692 Robot VacuumWi-Fi Connected, Personalized Cleaning Recommendations, Works with Alexa, Good for Pet Hair, Carpets, Hard Floors, Self-Charging Electronic Organizer CaseCord Organizer Storage Bag for Women, Travel Tech Pouch Packing Essentials for Charging Cable, Cell Phone, Power Bank, Earphone, SD Card, Single Layer Wire Garment Rack Heavy DutyClothes Rack Metal with Shelves, Freestanding Portable Wardrobe Closet Rack for Hanging Clothes 74.4″ L x 17.7″ W x 76.8″ H, Max Load 780LBS, Black Storage Organizer Bin System9 Compartment, Plastic  Sets of 2-Tier Multi-Purpose Bathroom Cabinet Under Sink Organizers and StorageStackable Kitchen Pantry Organization and Storage, Pull Out Medicine Cabinet Organizer with 8 Movable Dividers Are you Ready?

Take that first step and open yourself up to a world of freedom, peace, and fulfillment. Rita has the expertise and tools you need to create a more peaceful and intentional life. From eBooks to online courses and personalized decluttering plans, Rita’s resources are designed to help you achieve your goals and create a life that feels authentically you. So why wait? Start living your best life today with Rita’s lifestyle design and decluttering resources. Remember, the power to live a minimalist lifestyle lies in your hands.

Rita is Live Every Tuesday on Facebook

Never miss an episode of Rita’s weekly Facebook Live broadcast! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post It’s Decluttering Season: Top 3 Secrets to Help You Love Your Home Again! first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Embrace Minimalism And Decluttering

Learn More About Minimalist Decluttering Today 

Are you ready to embrace a minimalist mindset? Are you tired of having too much stuff, and not enough space? Are you looking to find the decluttering methods that help you finally get started decluttering? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Embracing minimalist decluttering is easy when you have the help you need to get started. 

Get Ready To Get Rid Of Clutter 

Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins. I understand what it’s like to be overwhelmed by the chaos of clutter. If you’re seeking simplicity in your home and you’re ready to learn how to live as a minimalist, I can help. After getting rid of 95% of what I once owned, I dedicated myself to helping others achieve the simplicity I now enjoy. The Downsizing Designer is here to help you find the decluttering routine that resonates with you. 

Creating Your Unique Decluttering Routine 

Taking on the decluttering challenge of your home depends on finding the decluttering method – or methods – that resonate with you. As the Downsizing Designer, I’ve collected many decluttering tips and tricks to share with you. Once you’re familiar with common decluttering tips and decluttering methods, you’ll be able to create your own unique decluttering routine – a routine that helps you get started and stay motivated. 

Where Can I Learn More About Decluttering Methods? 

If you’re ready to learn more about decluttering minimalist methods, you don’t have to search far. I’ve made my decluttering tips and tricks easily available in the Design Services online store. Try my minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. 

Want an easy way to learn the basics of decluttering? Try my Minimalist Essentials! [Insert link to Minimalist Essentials]. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Embrace Minimalism And Decluttering  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Find The Right Minimalist Decluttering Method

Minimalist Style And Minimalist Decluttering Tips 

How long will you make yourself live with unwanted clutter? Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by clutter in your home? Do you want to achieve a minimalist design in your home? If so, it’s time to take the plunge and learn how to get started decluttering. 

What Is Clutter? How Do I Get Rid Of It? 

Hi, it’s Rita. If have too many things and not enough space in your home, you have clutter. Clutter accumulates all too easily, especially after a lifetime of accumulating belongings. I, too, once struggled with this. Then, I got rid of 95% of what I owned and gained more money, time, and freedom in my life as a result. As the Downsizing Designer, I’m here to help you get rid of clutter. How? Through helpful minimalist decluttering tips. 

How Do I Get Started Decluttering? 

Starting your decluttering journey and achieving a minimalist lifestyle starts with finding the right decluttering method. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to decluttering. As the Downsizing Designer, I provide minimalist decluttering tips to help you find the right decluttering method for your decluttering journey. Consider the decluttering methods detailed in the following blog posts: 

Introducing The Best Decluttering Starter Kit Ever: The 3-2-1 Method   10 Step Plan to Conquer Clutter  Want More Decluttering Methods To Try? 

You can find more on decluttering methods and other minimalist decluttering tricks when you visit the Design Services online store. Try minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. Don’t wait – start your journey to achieve minimalist design through decluttering. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Find The Right Minimalist Decluttering Method  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Don’t Downsize for Retirement: DECLUTTER!

Not everyone wants to downsize when they retire. As a matter of fact, 75% of baby boomers say they would like to age in place for as long as they can.

But at some point as we age, it is likely that we will either want to downsize or have to downsize.

For those of you who have already downsized at least once, you know what a monumental task it is to reduce a lifetime of possessions from your large home that your kids grew up in into a smaller home that better suits your empty nest or retired lifestyle.

But for those of you who aren’t ready to take the big leap into downsizing… moving to a home with less space and a smaller footprint, perhaps you should try decluttering rather than downsizing… at least for now.

And the good news is:

Decluttering can be broken into small manageable pieces.Decluttering can also take place over a period of time, so there’s no rush.  (although… I will say that it is better to do it sooner than later and to make it a priority so that it gets done.)

Decluttering is about reducing the amount of stuff in your home, the duplicates, the items that are damaged or worn out, and the items you no longer love, want, need, or use.

Downsize by decluttering

For those of you who are not yet ready for the big move, DECLUTTER instead!

Remember, it is possible to declutter without downsizing, but it is not possible to downsize without decluttering.

Advantages of decluttering

Decluttering your home now helps you minimize possessions so…

You can live a simple life right now.When you do want or need to downsize in the future, much of the heavy lifting is already done.You’ll save time money and energy when you have less stuff to move to a new smaller home.Top 5 tips about decluttering for retirement1.   Don’t wait. Start now.

Spread your decluttering project out over time so you are not overwhelmed or stressed by a deadline.

2.   Declutter first, then organize.

Many people want to get organized so they buy pretty organizing bins and baskets, but they are wasting time and money. Reduce the amount of stuff you own by decluttering first then organizing.

Check out The Downsizing Designer’s Top 7 Summer Reads on Living A Simpler Life with Less

3.   Create a plan and timeline that you can implement over time.

Having a whole house plan and a specific timeline allows you to pace yourself and see progress which motivates you to continue the process to completion.

4.   Develop strong decluttering muscles.

By decluttering regularly, you develop decluttering methods that work for you. You get good at making quicker decisions… even the hard stuff with sentimental attachment.

It’s possible that you even get ruthless, that sorting, donating, and disposing of become second nature to you so you no longer have to labor over the decision-making process.

The quicker you decide, the quicker the decluttering process moves forward.

5.   Visualize your decluttered home as you go through the process.

What will it be like…

When you have less to manage and clean?When you know exactly where things belong so you can put them back after you’ve used them, and find them again when you need them?

One last tip to declutter your home. Try this decluttering method and it will help you practice downsizing before you move. It’s called the move-out decluttering method.

After you’ve made your decluttering plan for the whole house:

Give yourself a drop-dead deadline… a move-out date as if the trucks were in the driveway.Declutter room-by-room, making decisions quickly. Sort, donate, dispose of.Practice letting go and getting good at it. When finished with each room, move back into that room with less stuff.

You will be surprised at how effective this move-out method is! It mimics the process of moving out and then moving back in, so in many ways, this practice prepares you for downsizing when the real-time comes.

Most importantly, enjoy the process and the results!

Are you Ready?

Take that first step and open yourself up to a world of freedom, peace, and fulfillment. Rita has the expertise and tools you need to create a more peaceful and intentional life. From ebooks to online courses and personalized decluttering plans, Rita’s resources are designed to help you achieve your goals and create a life that feels authentically you. So why wait? Start living your best life today with Rita’s lifestyle design and decluttering resources. Remember, the power to live a minimalist lifestyle lies in your hands.

Home Decluttering Quick Start Checklist $4.99 Add to cart Sale Product on sale Rita’s Checklist Bundle $9.99 $7.99 Add to cart Sale Product on sale Rita’s Workbook Bundle $159.99 $99.00 Add to cart Rita is Live Every Tuesday on Facebook

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Don’t Downsize for Retirement: DECLUTTER! first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Don’t Downsize for Retirement: DECLLUTER!

Not everyone wants to downsize when they retire. As a matter of fact, 75% of baby boomers say they would like to age in place for as long as they can.

But at some point as we age, it is likely that we will either want to downsize or have to downsize.

For those of you who have already downsized at least once, you know what a monumental task it is to reduce a lifetime of possessions from your large home that your kids grew up in into a smaller home that better suits your empty nest or retired lifestyle.

But for those of you who aren’t ready to take the big leap into downsizing… moving to a home with less space and a smaller footprint, perhaps you should try decluttering rather than downsizing… at least for now.

And the good news is:

Decluttering can be broken into small manageable pieces.Decluttering can also take place over a period of time, so there’s no rush.  (although… I will say that it is better to do it sooner than later and to make it a priority so that it gets done.)

Decluttering is about reducing the amount of stuff in your home, the duplicates, the items that are damaged or worn out, and the items you no longer love, want, need, or use.

Downsize by decluttering

For those of you who are not yet ready for the big move, DECLUTTER instead!

Remember, it is possible to declutter without downsizing, but it is not possible to downsize without decluttering.

Advantages of decluttering

Decluttering your home now helps you minimize possessions so…

You can live a simple life right now.When you do want or need to downsize in the future, much of the heavy lifting is already done.You’ll save time money and energy when you have less stuff to move to a new smaller home.Top 5 tips about decluttering for retirement1.   Don’t wait. Start now.

Spread your decluttering project out over time so you are not overwhelmed or stressed by a deadline.

2.   Declutter first, then organize.

Many people want to get organized so they buy pretty organizing bins and baskets, but they are wasting time and money. Reduce the amount of stuff you own by decluttering first then organizing.

Check out The Downsizing Designer’s Top 7 Summer Reads on Living A Simpler Life with Less

3.   Create a plan and timeline that you can implement over time.

Having a whole house plan and a specific timeline allows you to pace yourself and see progress which motivates you to continue the process to completion.

4.   Develop strong decluttering muscles.

By decluttering regularly, you develop decluttering methods that work for you. You get good at making quicker decisions… even the hard stuff with sentimental attachment.

It’s possible that you even get ruthless, that sorting, donating, and disposing of become second nature to you so you no longer have to labor over the decision-making process.

The quicker you decide, the quicker the decluttering process moves forward.

5.   Visualize your decluttered home as you go through the process.

What will it be like…

When you have less to manage and clean?When you know exactly where things belong so you can put them back after you’ve used them, and find them again when you need them?

One last tip to declutter your home. Try this decluttering method and it will help you practice downsizing before you move. It’s called the move-out decluttering method.

After you’ve made your decluttering plan for the whole house:

Give yourself a drop-dead deadline… a move-out date as if the trucks were in the driveway.Declutter room-by-room, making decisions quickly. Sort, donate, dispose of.Practice letting go and getting good at it. When finished with each room, move back into that room with less stuff.

You will be surprised at how effective this move-out method is! It mimics the process of moving out and then moving back in, so in many ways, this practice prepares you for downsizing when the real-time comes.

Most importantly, enjoy the process and the results!

Are you Ready?

Take that first step and open yourself up to a world of freedom, peace, and fulfillment. Rita has the expertise and tools you need to create a more peaceful and intentional life. From ebooks to online courses and personalized decluttering plans, Rita’s resources are designed to help you achieve your goals and create a life that feels authentically you. So why wait? Start living your best life today with Rita’s lifestyle design and decluttering resources. Remember, the power to live a minimalist lifestyle lies in your hands.

Home Decluttering Quick Start Checklist $4.99 Add to cart Sale Product on sale Rita’s Checklist Bundle $9.99 $7.99 Add to cart Sale Product on sale Rita’s Workbook Bundle $159.99 $99.00 Add to cart Rita is Live Every Tuesday on Facebook

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Don’t Downsize for Retirement: DECLLUTER! first appeared on Design Services LTD.

How To Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering

How Can I Get Rid Of Clutter In My Home? 

Decluttering your home may feel like an insurmountable task. You have too much stuff, not enough space, and no idea how to get started decluttering. Don’t worry – you’re not the first to struggle with these issues. You don’t have to learn how to get started decluttering all on your own. 

Learn Minimalist Decluttering Tips And Get Started Today 

Hello, Rita here. As your Downsizing Designer, I’m interested in helping you to get started decluttering, stay motivated while decluttering, and achieve minimalist design through decluttering. You’re not alone in feeling frustrated by the fact that you have too much stuff and not enough space. I was once in that position, too. After I decluttered my life by getting rid of 95% of what I once owned, I gained more money, time, and freedom in my life. Now, I seek to help my clients accomplish the same. 

How To Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering 

Minimalist design is characterized by clean spaces and simplicity – which makes it hard to achieve minimalist design when your home is too cluttered. You can achieve your minimalist design dreams by getting rid of clutter. Learn more about decluttering your home today! 

You can start learning about decluttering right here, right now by taking a look at the following blog posts: 

Introducing The Best Decluttering Starter Kit Ever: The 3-2-1 Method   10 Step Plan to Conquer Clutter   The Ultimate Decluttering Guide: Embrace Simplicity and Find Peace in Your Home  

If you want to learn even more about minimalist decluttering, be sure to visit the Design Services online store. There, I offer minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post How To Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Where Can I Start Learning How To Declutter?

How To Declutter Through Minimalist Tips 

Are you ready to learn how to get rid of clutter? When you have too much stuff and not enough space in your home, decluttering becomes a necessity. Don’t let clutter get in the way of minimalist design in your home – begin your decluttering journey today! 

Decluttering And How To Become A Minimalist 

Hello, it’s Rita again – your Downsizing Designer. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by clutter. You may not know how to take the first step on your decluttering journey – but that’s okay! The Downsizing Designer is here to help. I am eager to share my knowledge on decluttering and minimalist design. 

After getting rid of 95% of what I once owned, I gained more money, time, and freedom in my life. I can help you find the same by teaching you how to get rid of clutter in your life. 

Where Can I Start Learning About Decluttering? 

If you’re ready to start learning more about minimalist decluttering, you’re in the right place. I offer many resources to teach others about decluttering. For example, the following posts detail different minimalist decluttering methods you might like to try: 

Introducing The Best Decluttering Starter Kit Ever: The 3-2-1 Method   10 Step Plan to Conquer Clutter   The Ultimate Decluttering Guide: Embrace Simplicity and Find Peace in Your Home  

Want more minimalist decluttering tips? Interested in tips and tricks to help you get started decluttering? If so, visit the Design Services online store, where you can find minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Where Can I Start Learning How To Declutter?  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

10 Secrets to Successfully Deal with Your Parents’ Clutter

Cleaning out your parents’ home can be a stressful task, especially if it’s full of decades of clutter. To make the process easier, here are 10 secrets to successfully deal with your parents’ clutter. These tips will help you efficiently and effectively organize, declutter, and dispose of the items in your parents’ home.

1.  Words Matter

What you say and how you say it can make a world of difference.

A difference in how the message is received.A difference in the actions that are taken… or not taken as a result.

Such is the case in talking to your parents about the delicate, sometimes difficult subject of decluttering possessions that they’ve accumulated over a lifetime. Items you might describe as clutter isn’t clutter to them at all. In fact, they might view those items, lovingly, and something to be cherished.

If you would like to start a discussion with your parents about paring down their possessions, it’s important to use positive words that will inspire, encourage, and empower them to act. 

Here is a list of words you might use and not use in talking to your parents about decluttering their home.

Positive words to be used:

“Tidy up”

“Clean-up”

“Simplify”

“Live with less”

“Less to manage”

“Memories”

“Value”

“Guide”

Negative words NOT to be used:

“Throw away”

“Junk”

“Burden”

“Demand”

“Direct”

“Clean out”

“Stuff”

“Clutter”

2.  Attitude Matters

If you want to help your parents downsize and declutter their stuff, your attitude and your siblings’ attitude about the entire process from initial conversation, implementation, and to completion can make or break the decluttering process.

If you have a negative attitude that is a burden, “something you have to do,” “something that annoys you,” because you have your own life and you basically have no time for this, that negativity will color the entire experience.

Conversely, if you have a positive attitude, one of truly wanting to help your parents who love you and have spent their lives caring for you, and that now the time has come for you to lovingly help them, then the experience they have and you have will be completely different.

Remind yourself to be loving and kind as it is not an easy step for them to be taking.

3.  Approach Matters

Start to notice that your parents’ home is becoming more and more cluttered and disorganized…

When the piles of mail, unpaid bills, important papers pile up and are being ignored, it’s probably time to broach the subject with your parents, by simply engaging them in a conversation that might sound like this:

“You’re getting a little older and we’re concerned about you.

We’d love to help you tidy up and get organized so it’s easier for you to find things and that you’re safe from tripping and falling. And so, you can make wise decisions about what you want to let go of, giveaway and donate.

You’ll have a lot less to manage and be able to enjoy your life more.”

The important thing is to make them feel that they are in control of their lives and of the process.

It’s also important to have this conversation to plant the seed sooner than later before crisis sets in.

4.  Respect Matters

Ask questions about their prized possessions. Have them tell you stories about why a particular piece of furniture, accessory, or photo means so much to them.

In addition to learning more about your family’s history, you’ll be showing your parents love and respect by finding out what’s most important to them.

Let them decide what’s important, what to keep, what to give away, donate, or let go of. 

When you treat your parents with respect, and when you treat their things with respect, you will garner their respects and trust in return.

Remember, just because something means nothing to you, it could hold many memories to them. When you build that trust, you can gently guide them to taking a picture of it or recording a story about it, so they can more comfortably let it go.

5.  Emotions Matter

Downsizing and decluttering is an emotional journey that takes time.

If you want to successfully help your parents, take time to:

Ask how they are feeling as you go through the process.Get them to explain why they’re feeling that way.

Listen. Really listen.

You’ll be glad you did, especially after they’re gone and can no longer tell you those stories or share their feelings with you.

You will empower them and give them strength to continue the downsizing and decluttering journey, knowing that they’ve been heard, really listened to, and supported. 

It will likely be an emotional journey for you as well, because you are also revisiting memories, people, places you’ve experienced with your parents.

6.  Why Decluttering and Downsizing MattersAs your parents age, as the big house is too big…As things seem to keep piling up, and I ignored or not attended to regularly…As your parents are less visit, play and cognitively able…

Safety and security become a primary issue and a reason for decluttering, downsizing, and simplifying their surroundings. By having less stuff, it’s not only physically empowering for them because they’re able to maneuver more easily, but it’s also more emotionally empowering, making it more peaceful, relaxing, and less stressful.

7.  Systems Matter

Knowing what systems and decluttering methods that work for you, your parents, your personalities and available time to declutter matters.

Examples:

The Burst MethodThe Category MethodThe Room-by-room Method

These are just 3 examples of a decluttering methods that I’ve outlined in my workbook.

By starting in small, manageable spaces, i.e., one shelf, one closet, one for the time, these decluttering methods will help you accomplish your goal, quicker and easier.

8.  Collaboration, Coordination, and Compromise Matter

In addition to the physical and emotional components of downsizing and decluttering your parents’ home, it will take collaboration, coordination, and compromise from all of you.

These three C’s helps pull everything and everyone together to make it happen.

In my own family, each of my siblings played a key role in decluttering our parents’ home that they lived in for over 30 years.

My sister is a techy so she helped digitize, important records, and my other sister is a doctor, so she helped make sure all of the medical records and prescriptions for an order.

My brother is a banker, so he oversaw all the fiduciary responsibilities and of course, my role as the “Downsizing Designer” was managing the project, the sorting, donating, and disposing of items from our parents’ home.

Each of us played a key role based on our individual strengths, but it did require collaboration, coordination, and compromise.

9.  Compassion Matters

Remember, this is a huge step and transition for your parents. Compassion matters.

Know that they are likely afraid.

If they grew up in the depression era, they had few possessions and they value them. They might fear losing everything when they declutter, likely they are fearing losing their independence.

Nostalgic

It’s not easy, letting go of things that illicit memories or things they value and our sentimental about.

Aging

Your parents are getting older. They realize they might have physical, or cognitive issues. Their energy level is probably not the same. They might be visually impaired so it’s hard for them to sort, organize, and physically manage the process.

Being aware of these limitations and their concerns is important and compassionate.

10. Tools to Help You Declutter Matter

For those of you who are wanting to successfully declutter and downsize your parents’ home or perhaps you’re in the midst of it right now, I’ve compiled a list of products that my family used. They were extremely helpful during that process.

They included:

Photo stick that easily saved photos and records from their phone or computer.ThePhotoStick Omni 128GB USB Effortless Photo and Video Backup for Computers

2. Important document binder that holds all necessary, documents passwords, etc.

ABC life Accordion File Organizer12 Pockets Expanding File Folder

3. A digital photo frame that I still keep in my living room as a reminder of our family adventures.

Smart WIFI Digital Photo Frame 1280×800 IPS LCD Touch Screen, Auto-Rotate Portrait and Landscape Built in, 16GB Memory

 Shutterfly Gift Cards – Email Delivery

4. Books I’ve read and reread that are both inspirational and tell you how to.

Keep the Memories Lose the Stuff: Declutter Downsize and Move Forward with Your Life by Matt Paxton

The Art of Letting GO: How to Let Go of the Past Look Forward to the Future and Finally Enjoy the Emotional Freedom You Deserve

Writing Your Legacy: The Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting Your Life Story by Richard Campbell

Each of these resources is available on Amazon.

I am an Amazon affiliate and receive a small commission if you purchase from my link, but it does not impact the price that you will pay.

If you wish to receive this list, email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com. Subject line: Products to Help Declutter Parents’ Home.

I hope this helps you succeed at decluttering and downsizing your parents’ home. As always, I welcome your comments and invite your questions. You’re always free to email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com.

Never miss an episode! Click the following link to like Rita’s Facebook page or subscribe to her Decluttering YouTube Channel. Check out our YouTube playlists if you want to learn more.

Follow me on social media for more updates:YOUTUBE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKEDIN | TWITTERRita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post 10 Secrets to Successfully Deal with Your Parents’ Clutter first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Minimalist Decluttering Tips For An Uncluttered Life

Don’t Allow Clutter To Rule Your Life 

Are you tired of living with too much stuff and not enough space? Is your life overrun with clutter? Do you prefer minimalist design, but find you don’t know what to do with all your belongings? If so, you’re in the right place. 

Learn How To Become A Minimalist 

Hello, it’s Rita again. Many of you are seeking a more minimalist lifestyle – a chance to free yourself from clutter and enjoy minimalist style in your homes. As the Downsizing Designer, I aim to help you achieve these goals through minimalist decluttering tips and tricks. After getting rid of clutter in my own life, I’ve dedicated myself to helping others learn the benefits of living a decluttered life. 

Overcome Any Decluttering Challenge 

What is clutter? How can you get rid of it? 

Clutter is when things accumulate in your home in an untidy manner. Clutter happens when you have too much stuff but not enough space. Clutter overwhelms, becomes and source of stress, and is easy to neglect. 

As your Downsizing Designer, I’m here to teach you how to deal with clutter. I offer decluttering advice for how to achieve a minimalist design in your home. Interested in learning more about decluttering? Start by reading the following posts: 

Introducing The Best Decluttering Starter Kit Ever: The 3-2-1 Method   10 Step Plan to Conquer Clutter   Embracing Minimalism: 5 Tips for a Simpler and More Fulfilling Life  

You can also find more minimalist decluttering tips on the Design Services online store – including minimalist decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. 

Rita Wilkins Offers Lifestyle Design And Interior Design Services  

Do you want to learn more about downsizing and decluttering? Call Design Services LTD at 302-475-5663 to discuss your design needs. You can also connect with me by following me on Facebook and LinkedIn. Would you like complimentary advice from the downsizing designer? You can schedule a complimentary 30-minute call with me today. My book Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom is now available in paperback, audio, and on Kindle! Get your copy soon. 

The post Minimalist Decluttering Tips For An Uncluttered Life  first appeared on Design Services LTD.