Rita Wilkins's Blog, page 23

15-Minute Clutter Busting Routines That Help Minimize Visible Clutter

A cluttered home is overwhelming and it’s both physically and mentally exhausting!   People who live in cluttered homes tend to procrastinate and avoid the obvious piles of mail and paperwork, dirty laundry, dirty dishes, unmade beds, and toys everywhere!   It’s just easier for them to ignore the clutter even though it creates a lot of undue stress and frustration in the household.   If you are always looking for your glasses, your phone, or the remote, don’t give up! My 15-minute clutter busting routine will help you minimize that visible clutter. That when done daily with a little effort, it will help you live a simpler, clutter-free life in no time.  

Establishing A Daily Habit Can Influence Those Around You

Because this simple 15-minute routine is short and effective. It’s much more likely that it will become a habit, one that is as common as brushing your teeth. What’s really interesting is that when your spouse and kids see you doing this daily routine, it is possible… even likely that they will follow you and establish their own clutter busting routines because they will begin to experience the benefits.  

A neat, clean, organized home.A “home” for everything so they know exactly where to find what they want, when they want it and where to put it away when they’re done with it.

This might sound impossible but commit to trying these 15-minute clutter busting routines for 30 days and you’ll see what I mean.

Here’s how it works:1. Identify your regular “dumping grounds”

Prioritize this.

Make a list of your most common dumping grounds for your clutter.

I.e., Kitchen counter, bathroom vanity, your desktop, etc.  

As soon as you use something, put it back where it belongs.

I.e., Kitchen knives go back into the knife drawer. I.e., Cosmetics goes back into the cosmetic bag or drawer. I.e., Mail or paperwork to be filed goes back into a file cabinet or into a basket to be dealt with.  

When you become aware of these hotspot dumping grounds, you can create a new habit by putting them away immediately after using them.  

Check out My Top 7 Summer Reads on Living A Simpler Life with Less.

2. Identify things you allow to pile up.

Prioritize this.

As soon as you realize those things are starting to pile up, immediately deal with the piles in front of you.  

I.e., Junk mail, magazines, dirty clothing.Recycle junk mail.Donate old magazines.Throw in a load of laundry.

When you begin to realize that the piles are just deferred decisions, take a moment or two to make a decision and deal with it in the moment before it piles up.   This will become a habit over time if you do it consistently.  

3. Identify things you put off until later

Prioritize this.

Make a list of things you procrastinate about and always put off until another time.  

I.e., Making your bed. I.e., Doing the dishes.I.e., Putting away your clothing.  

Catch yourself when you say “I’ll do it later”. Instead, let “DO IT NOW” become your new mantra.  

Start to notice how you feel.

When you make your bed as soon as you wake up.When you do the dishes immediately after dinner.When you hang up your clothes after you’ve used them.

  You will start to experience less stress, more peace of mind, and best of all, you’ll be able to find what you want when you want it.  

4. Identify the things you can “never find”

Prioritize this. I.e., Your phone, the remote control, your glasses, garden tools, your keys.   When this becomes a daily problem,

“Where did I put my phone?“

“Where are my glasses?”

It’s time to find a “home” for each of these items so you can establish a routine/habit of putting them there each time you use them without fail.   When you realize how much time, energy, and frustration this saves you, you’ll get excited to know exactly where you put them so either you can find them or someone else in your family can find them when they need it.  

15-Minutes A Day Can Change Your Life

If you notice, each one of these hacks/simple routines only takes 3 to 5 minutes each totaling about 15 minutes per day. And you will save hours of stress, upset, and frustration … and that’s priceless!   If you want a free PDF of these 15-minute clutter busting tips, email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com with the subject line, Clutter Busting Routines.   And let me know how you make out after 30 days of trying out your new clutter busting routines.

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 15-Minute Clutter Busting Routines That Help Minimize Visible Clutter first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Start Living A Decluttered Life

Learn About Minimalist Living And Minimalist Design Today 

Don’t let clutter overwhelm your life – seek the minimalist lifestyle you want by choosing to live a decluttered life today. How can you start living a more minimalist lifestyle? How can you learn more about decluttering and minimalism? You’ve come to the right place to learn more. 

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

Hi, it’s Rita here. Your Downsizing Designer is ready to help you learn how to achieve the minimalist lifestyle you desire. Living with too much stuff can be a source of stress. You don’t have enough space for it all, yet you’re now sure how to sort through your belongings to find what you really want to keep. I, too, once had too much stuff and not enough space. After getting rid of 95% of what I once owned, I found I had more money, time, and freedom to live life as I chose. Now, I’d like to help you do the same with helpful minimalist decluttering tips. 

Remove Clutter From All Aspects Of Your Life 

Unfortunately, clutter isn’t something that only affects your environment. It can also impact your daily schedule. As your Downsizing Designer, I’m eager to help you learn how to remove clutter from all aspects of your life. 

Do You Have A Cluttered Calendar? 

Do you find you have too much on your schedule? Has your calendar become cluttered? Are you interested in finding more freedom in your schedule by decluttering your calendar? If you’re interested in learning more, be sure to read Embracing the Freedom of an Uncluttered Calendar. 

More Decluttering Lessons To Overcome Decluttering Challenges 

If you’re ready to learn more about decluttering your life, be sure to take a look at the Design Services online store. Learn the best approach to decluttering and minimalism through 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 Start Living A Decluttered Life  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Top 4 Ways to Overcome Guilt When Decluttering

Are you guilty of feeling guilty when you are decluttering your home? If so, you’re definitely not alone.  

Many people wonder why they feel so guilty and they also wonder how to stop feeling that way because it can really slow you down and even stop your progress completely.  

Why do we feel guilty when we declutter?We get attached to our stuff and make it mean something, when in fact, it’s just stuff!We feel guilty when we get rid of something our loved one gives us. We think we will disrespect them so we hold onto it even if it sits in a box in the basement.We feel guilty because we spent good money on something and we feel we’ve wasted money… even though we may never even wear it or use it.We think that we might need it someday so we feel guilty when we get rid of it even though it sits in a box in our garage.We feel guilty because we’re afraid that if we make a wrong decision, we will regret it.

These are all the things we tell ourselves about our stuff so we hold on… and hold on… And even bring it with us when we move to another house so that it continues to take up space in our closets and in our basements.  

But the real reason why we feel guilty, the real reason beneath all of those surface excuses is a much deeper reality that makes us feel guilty:  

We know we have too much stuff.We know it’s gotten out of control.We know we bought stuff, inherited stuff, or were given stuff we never even use.We know that we can’t possibly keep it all if we want to declutter and possibly downsize.We know if we don’t declutter now our kids will have to declutter after we’re gone.

Feeling guilty slows you down. It weighs you down and it’s not a very good reason to hold onto stuff that you no longer want need or use.  

Check out The Downsizing Designer’s 10 Favorite Home Organizing Solutions How do you stop feeling guilty when you declutter?1. Stop making excuses for holding onto stuff!  

Take a look around.  

You know that all of this excess clutter is taking up valuable space in your home… your garage, attic, basement, and closets.  

You know it’s full of stuff you barely used, haven’t seen in years, doesn’t even fit your lifestyle any longer. It served its purpose and it’s now time to move on.

You know you’ve been making excuses to hold on to outdated electronics, video equipment, VHS tapes, CDs, and vinyl records.

Do you really need all those clothes and shoes that no longer fit and are uncomfortable?  

Do you really want to continue to hold onto your parents’ dining room table, chairs, and china cabinet? You know it’s taking a lot of space in the storage unit that you keep paying for each month.  

If you want to declutter, let go of stuff that no longer serves you. Stop making excuses! Let it go! 

2. Get real, ask the tough questions even if it hurts!  

You know that all of this extra “stuff” takes up space in your home and in your head and it makes you feel guilty.  

You know you can’t keep it all if you’re going to downsize to a smaller home.  

Ask yourself…   Is it worth your time, money, and energy that it takes to store, maintain, and move it to the next home?  

Ask yourself…   If you are not using it, if you don’t need it, why would you continue to hold onto it?  

If those books just sit on the shelf and never get used, if there are craft items that fill the closet, but never get used, if your deceased parents’ stuff sists in your garage because you have no room for it in your home …   

Tell yourself… “It’s time to let it go!”

3. It’s time to declutter once and for all! 

You’re tired of talking about it.

You want more space in your home with less clutter. You want more time to do things that matter to you rather than maintaining it all. You want peace of mind and freedom from guilt.  

If you want to let go of the guilt, think about what you are gaining, not what you were losing.  

4. Repurpose your things so they can benefit someone in need.

It’s true that one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.  

To help lose the guilt while decluttering, think of others who need what you no longer want, need, or use.  

Think about those winter coats that you don’t wear. They could be used to keep someone warm this winter.Think about those children’s clothes and toys and how much a young mother who is struggling to make ends meet would appreciate them.Think about those duplicate kitchen items, small appliances, pots, and pans that could be just what a young family needs as they are starting out.

If you no longer want, need, or use the items and if they no longer serve a purpose in your life, why not donate them to someone who needs them and will put them to good use? This not only feels good, but it helps relieve your guilt.  

As you declutter, remind yourself that in spite of all of your excess, you are committed to decluttering. You know you need to let go of things, you know you must start now and can’t put it off any longer.  

As many of you know decluttering is not easy. It’s a journey and you can do it!  

It will be worth your while when you finally get to experience the peace of mind and the freedom that comes when you let go of excess stuff and the guilt associated with letting it go.  

If you are guilty of feeling guilty when decluttering:

Stop making excuses!Get tough on yourself and ask tough questions.Declare “It’s time!”Consider donating your excess to those in need.

 Remember to focus on all that you will gain and how someone else can benefit from stuff that’s been sitting in boxes in your garage and basement.

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.

Decluttering Quick Start Bundle Sale Product on sale $249.00 $99.00 Add to cart 8 Proven Methods to Start Decluttering Course Sale Product on sale $99.99 $49.99 Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 8 customer ratings Add to cart Home Decluttering Quick Start Checklist $4.99 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 Top 4 Ways to Overcome Guilt When Decluttering first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Decluttering Challenge: Do You Have Too Much Stuff?

Want To Learn How To Have A Minimalist Lifestyle? 

Do you struggle with the number of things in your home? Do you have too much stuff but not enough space? Would you like to get rid of clutter and lead a more minimalist lifestyle? You don’t have to live with unwanted clutter – you can learn how to let go of items, how to declutter your home, and accomplish a more minimalist style. 

What Is Clutter And How To Get Rid Of It 

Hi, it’s Rita, your Downsizing Designer. It can be all to easy to become overwhelmed by the clutter in your home. Clutter is an untidy collection of things, and this untidiness often comes from the fact that you have too much stuff and not enough space. I once had this same problem. After getting rid of 95% of what I once owned, however, I found I had more money, time, and freedom in my day-to-day life. That’s why today I help others learn how to let go of clutter – so they too can have more money, time, and freedom to live their lives as they choose. Decluttering Before And After As far as decluttering challenges go, the two biggest things that people often struggle with are the following: 

Before decluttering: getting started decluttering After starting to declutter: staying motivated to declutter. 

As the Downsizing Designer, I’ve developed tips and tricks to help with both of these decluttering challenges! Learn more about how to be a minimalist through minimalist decluttering tips when you the Design Services online store. There, I provide useful tools such as decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. Visit today to learn 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 Challenge: Do You Have Too Much Stuff?  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

What’s Stopping You from Designing Your Own Life?

My all-time favorite quote:

“The secret to happiness is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less”

~ Socrates

It took me a long time to learn the wisdom of this statement… you might say I was a slow learner and that I had to learn the hard way!  

As an interior designer for over 40 years, I’ve helped people design beautiful interiors all over the country… everything from Supreme Court Justice Chambers to corporate penthouses to tiny kitchens and tiny houses.  

As a baby boomer, I bought into consumerism and the message of bigger, better, and more. So, I built the big beautiful house, the gorgeous building that housed my design firm for 28 years.  We were busy making a lot of money but through it all “something” was missing! I wanted more… so much more, but I eventually learned that it was not more stuff, not more big design projects and not more money that would make me happier.  

My life was spiraling out of control. I had no time or freedom to pursue anything that I wanted and needed. My life was being controlled by other people’s needs and desires, not my own. I wanted my life back.  

Then, my son who was serving in the Peace Corps at the time invited me to visit him and his little village 8000 miles from here. That trip to a Third World country changed my life. I had never experienced people who had nothing but they were happy.  

Exploring the Possibilities of a Simpler Life

For the first time, I was crystal clear that I wanted a simpler life with less so I downsized my home from 5000 ft.² to 867 ft.², gave away 95% of my possessions to people who needed them or wanted them…and I’ve never been happier!  

For the first time, I had more time, more money, and more freedom to pursue what mattered most to me.  

In other words, I finally realized I could design my own life, which is exactly what I did using the same 10 steps I’ve used for the last 40 years to help people change their lives through design.   

I realized, though that in order to achieve that simpler life with less, I needed to downsize and declutter my life so I could enjoy my life more.    Because of these experiences, I was able to write a best-selling book, “Downsize Your Life, Upgrade Your Lifestyle: Secrets to More Time, Money, and Freedom.   

I was also able to do a Ted talk on The Impact of Living with Less. It now has over 1.5 million views.   

As an interior designer and now as a lifestyle designer, I help other women realize the dream of living the life they dream of and they get to design it themselves!  

If you’re tired of settling for less, if you’re tired of a status quo life, it’s up to you to create a vision for the life you really want, to be crystal clear about what matters most to you and create an action plan to live the life you love… by Design!

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! 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 What’s Stopping You from Designing Your Own Life? first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Funniest Closet Decluttering Checklist Ever!

Face it. It’s not fun cleaning out your closet but it has to be done once in a while especially when…  

You are having a hard time finding what you want when you’re trying to get ready for work or a dinner date.Some of your favorite clothes are buried somewhere deep inside your closet so you forget all about them until the seasons are almost over.You finally realize that you’re only using 10% to 20% of all the clothing in your closet. The rest of them are just taking up valuable space.Your messy closet or closets are even starting to mess with your brain.You feel guilty and you keep putting it off because even though you know you should clean it out, you’re just not motivated.You can’t even relax because you know what a mess it is behind those clothes stores.Understanding the Impact of Excessive Clothing

  When your closet is out of control your whole life can feel out of control.   You probably wonder.   

How did it get to be this bad?Why did I buy all those clothes in the first placeWhy am I holding onto all of them even if many of them don’t fit me or they’re not my taste or style any longer?

  There are a number of answers to those questions. Here are just a few. Understanding them may help prevent you from overbuying in the future.  

Aspirational Clothes Clutter

Do you remember buying those pretty little black dresses for the perfect date with Mr. Right?   Do you remember buying pants that were too tight but you bought them anyway because you intended to lose 10 more pounds?  

Sentimental Clothes Clutter

Do you still have your wedding dress in your closet that is now 25 years old?   Do you have the dress you wore on your first date or to the prom?  

If you are trying to downsize and declutter, are you challenged by having to let go of sentimental things?

Bargain Clothing Clutter

You might still have tags on clothing that you just had to have because they were on sale and such a good buy.  

Distraction Clothing Clutter

Have you ever gone shopping mindlessly to distract yourself from being lonely on a Friday night or after a stressful week? Holding onto clothing in our closets is a form of security and self-comfort, but the question becomes at what point are you going to be willing to let go of those clothes that don’t fit or not you anymore and that you never wear because you don’t feel good in them?

Check out Rita’s article: Baby Boomers, Declutter Now: How to Prevent Your Stuff from Becoming a Burden to Your Family

Hoarder to Minimalist: Recognizing When Clothes No Longer Serve You

You have to admit many of those clothes need to go. So how can you get started?   Because closet cleaning is not very much fun, I decided to create the 30-Day Funniest Closet Decluttering Checklist Ever!   At the end of 30 days, you will have gotten rid of all of those clothes that look ridiculous on you, shoes that don’t fit and things that you bought in a weaker moment.   If you want a copy of my new checklist, email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com. In the subject line put the funniest checklist ever and I will send you a free PDF.

Here’s how 30-Day Funniest Closet Decluttering Checklist Ever works:

Each day for 30 days, go into your closet and challenge yourself to select at least one item from that day’s category.   Remove it from your home immediately by disposing of donating or giving it to some other sucker who will keep it in their closet!   

At the end of each decluttering session, take just a minute to laugh at yourself for having bought it in the first place!   

DAY 1: “I can’t believe I ever wore this!”

DAY 2: “If only I had said no!”

DAY 3: “What was I thinking?!”

DAY 4: “I must have been bored.”

DAY 5: “It used to look good on me…really!”

DAY 6: “How many of these do I need?”

DAY 7: “Please don’t laugh!”

DAY 8: “I forgot I even had this!”

DAY 9:  “I can’t believe I spent that much money on this!”

DAY 10: “Who left the tags on?”

DAY 11: “I must have been drinking!”

DAY 12: “It was a once-in-a-lifetime bargain!”

DAY 13: “Why does it say “expired”?”

DAY 14: “Maybe I can regift this!”

DAY 15: “Definitely Secret Santa material!”

DAY 16: “I wonder if this qualifies as a historical costume?”

DAY 17: “Why does it say, “Do not use”?”

DAY 18: “I’m not sure which decade this came from.”

DAY 19: “Are you kidding me?!”

DAY 20: “A gift that keeps on giving.”

DAY 21: “Too short, too tight, on sale … I’ll take it!”

DAY 22: “Surely I’m not the only one who wore these!”

DAY 23: “Maybe someone half my age would want this”

DAY 24: “No wonder it was on sale!”

DAY 25: “Wish I could get my money back for this!”

DAY 26: “One of a kind…no wonder!”

DAY 27: “Certified preowned, never worn.”

DAY 28: “I forgot I already had 3 of these!”

DAY 29: “Who in their right mind would have bought this? (me)”

DAY 30: “Found it! Best Halloween costume ever!”    

At the end of 30 days, check out your closet. Chances are you only have things in there that you want, need, and will wear. You will also have more peace of mind knowing you can find what you need when you need it!   If you would like the free PDF 30-Day Funniest Closet Decluttering Checklist Ever, email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com with the subject line, “Funniest checklist ever!”  

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.

Decluttering Quick Start Bundle Sale Product on sale $249.00 $99.00 Add to cart 8 Proven Methods to Start Decluttering Course Sale Product on sale $99.99 $49.99 Rated 4.88 out of 5 based on 8 customer ratings Add to cart Home Decluttering Quick Start Checklist $4.99 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 Funniest Closet Decluttering Checklist Ever! first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering

Learn To Let Go Of Items, Get Rid Of Clutter, And Become More Minimalist 

You don’t have to live your life surrounded by clutter. You may feel you don’t know how to get started decluttering or that you don’t know how to live a more minimalist lifestyle. You don’t have to accomplish your minimalist decluttering goals all on your own. You can begin learning how to let go of clutter today. 

Live A Minimalist Lifestyle With Minimalist Decluttering Tips

 Hi, it’s Rita again. As your Downsizing Designer, I’m eager to help you let go of clutter. What is clutter, exactly? Clutter is an untidy accumulation of items that often happens when you have too much stuff and not enough space. Letting go of clutter can seem difficult, but I’m here to help you accomplish your decluttering goals. I draw from my own experience of getting rid of 95% of what I once owned so that I can offer you helpful minimalist tips for decluttering. 

What Is Minimalist Style? 

When you think of minimalist style, you likely think of simple environments. The most noticeable characteristic of minimalist design is simplicity. Minimalist design will often feature clean lines, simple color palettes, and clean spaces. This is why a minimalist style cannot be accomplished when your home is overrun with clutter. If you’re ready to live a minimalist lifestyle, take the first steps towards taking on decluttering challenges in your home. Look through the useful tools I’ve gathered on the Design Services online store, including decluttering checklists, online decluttering courses, and more. Get rid of clutter starting now.

 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 Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering first appeared on Design Services LTD.

THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS OF DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME AND YOUR LIFE

BY RITA WILKINS JULY 30, 2023 LIFESTYLE

­­­Clutter. We’ve all experienced it on some level. Some of it is visible. Some of it is hidden from our sight. Physical and mental clutter have a funny way of creeping into our homes and our lives. Slowly but surely, we become inundated and overwhelmed by it, sometimes to the point of making us sick.

Visible ClutterThink Paper Clutter

The kind of clutter that seeps into our homes every day and when not dealt with on a regular basis, it builds up, filling our kitchen countertops, desktops, nightstands, and coffee tables. Every flat surface we have in our homes becomes a repository for junk mail, take-out menus, unsolicited advertisements, and bills. Paper clutter is like a virus that spreads rapidly and can easily take over our lives.

Think Digital Clutter

Unopened emails, poorly labeled files, disorganized desktops, digital photos that we promise to delete “someday” fall in this category. Left unattended, our messy and cluttered virtual lives negatively impact our productivity and workflow, causing undue stress.

Think Sentimental Clutter

All of those special things like photos, love letters, and memorabilia that we just can’t seem to let go of. Those things that sit in boxes and storage containers for years in our attic and basement waiting for the right time to sort through them. This type of physical clutter tends to accumulate as our kids grow and move on and as our parents and loved ones pass away. It’s the type of clutter that will be hidden from our sight and takes up valuable space in our minds because we know we will have to face it someday. 

Think Calendar Clutter

When our calendars are filled with too many commitments and obligations (the “have to’s” but “I don’t want to’s”) and when we allow unsolicited expectations of others to consume our time, attention, and energy our calendars leave, no room, no white space for our own priorities and desires.

Hidden ClutterThink Relationship Clutter

We may not have ever considered toxic relationships and toxic behavior to be a type of clutter, but constant yelling, shaming, blaming, and controlling negatively impact our health and well-being. Just like physical clutter, relationship clutter can hold us back from living the life we want and deserve.

Think Financial Clutter

Like relationship clutter, financial clutter is not always visible or easy to identify, but if you have no budget, regularly max out your credit cards, tend to buy on impulse, and face overdue bills each month, you are likely experiencing the impact and stress of financial clutter. Each of these types of clutter, whether visible or invisible, impacts our health, our wealth, and our overall happiness. Clutter is like a disease that slowly eats away at the quality of our lives. But once your eyes have been opened to just how invasive and insidious clutter is costing you your freedom, you’ve taken the first big step to realize the therapeutic benefits of decluttering your home and your life. 

How Do You Feel About Decluttering?

For many, the thought of decluttering stirs up negative emotions. These are the top 5:

1. Overwhelm

Problem: Not knowing where or how to get started. Too big of a task to comprehend.

Solution: Start in one small area, one drawer, one shelf. When you see progress, this will motivate you to continue.

2. Sentimentality

Problem: Attachment to memories, feeling that we will lose those if we let go of sentimental clutter.

Solution: Keep a few special items, take photos, create a Shutterfly album, and write about why the items are important to you.

3. Procrastination

Problem: You know you have to declutter, and you even want to declutter, but you keep putting it off until tomorrow.

Solution: Give yourself a deadline and a schedule. Get a friend to help and to hold you accountable.

4. Fear

Problem: Fear that you will make a mistake and might give away something that you need later.

Solution: Develop a decluttering mindset and muscle. Over time it gets easier, and you experience the freedom of less.

5. Guilt

Problem: The feeling that you spent “good money” on it or that it was a gift from someone and you feel guilty about letting it go.

Solution: Face the reality that the money is spent, and you will not get it back. Also, give yourself the leeway to realize that it was a gift, and it is yours to keep or not. Focus on how life will be much easier after decluttering.

Push Reset on How You Feel About Decluttering

When you rethink the way you feel about the process of decluttering, you will start to see it as a way to make your life easier because it frees up space in your home and in your head. Decluttering is an emotional process. Allow yourself to feel those feelings of fear, guilt, sentimentality, and attachment. Allow yourself to grieve the loss/donation/repurposing of items to others. Decluttering can be a positive and therapeutic experience. It can reduce stress, overwhelm, and restore clarity, peace of mind, freedom, and happiness. Decluttering is the cure for clutter. Think of decluttering as a way to cure clutter and to simplify all areas of your life. 

When you make a habit of decluttering and purging excess physical and mental clutter regularly…When you create boundaries about what you allow into your home and into your life…

You will start to see decluttering in a whole new light because it is more about what you will gain rather than how much you will lose or let go of.

Benefits of Decluttering

Decluttering your home and your life gives relief, it lifts the burden and weight off your shoulders of clutter. It helps you make room for a simpler, more abundant life. 

Let’s talk

When you hear or read about decluttering, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Is it favorable or unfavorable? Have you begun to declutter any areas of your life? How is everything going?

The post THERAPEUTIC BENEFITS OF DECLUTTERING YOUR HOME AND YOUR LIFE first appeared on Design Services LTD.

Take On The Decluttering Challenge

Do You Want To Lead A More Minimalist Lifestyle? Do You Find Decluttering A Challenge? 

If you find yourself overwhelmed by too much stuff in your home, it could be time to downsize and declutter with the help of minimalist tips for decluttering. No need to worry if you don’t know how to get started decluttering – the help you need to take on any decluttering challenge is here. 

How To Become A Minimalist Through Decluttering 

Hi, I’m Rita. To many, I’m known as the Downsizing Designer because after downsizing and decluttering my life, I became dedicated to helping others take on their own decluttering challenges. Like many of you, I once had too much stuff and not enough space. Then, I got rid of 95% of what I once owned. Now I have more money, time, and freedom in my day-to-day life. I’d like to help you accomplish the same thing. What Is Clutter? Clutter gathers in your home too easily when you have too much stuff and not enough space. Clutter is an accumulation of things that is untidy and unsightly. You may find yourself holding onto things you don’t need and don’t want. You may feel too guilty to let those items go. You might feel as though you’ll someday need those items you’re holding onto. As your Downsizing Designer, I’m here to teach you how to let go of clutter. Seeking a more minimalist lifestyle doesn’t mean letting go of everything you own. It does, however, mean letting go of those items that don’t serve you. 

Learn More Minimalist Decluttering Tips Today 

Do you want to learn more about minimalist decluttering? If so, take a look at the Design Services online store. Find the tools you need to take on decluttering challenges, including 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 Take On The Decluttering Challenge  first appeared on Design Services LTD.

The Downsizing Designer’s 10 Favorite Home Organizing Solutions

For the first time, I would like to focus on actual products that I have used myself and strongly recommend. They will help you get organized and stay organized once you’ve decluttered a particular space.

If you read my blogs, you know that I don’t normally encourage you to buy more because my primary focus is to help you learn how to effectively declutter your stuff so you can enjoy a simpler life with less stuff.

But because people keep asking me what kind of products they would need just to stay organized, I’m intentionally sharing my 10 Favorite Home Organizing Solutions that will help you maximize your space and help you be able to find exactly what you want and when you need it.

Make the Most of Tried and Tested Products

Over the years, I’ve tried and tested many organizing products, but these are the ones I continue to use because they work! I wouldn’t recommend them if I didn’t believe in them! They help get me organize and then keep me organized. That’s why they are on the top of my list.

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.

Downsizing Designer’s Top 10 Organizing Solutions

1. Hobby or Craft and Toy Clutter

24 Drawer Plastic Storage Unit for craft supplies, and small toys like Legos and Matchbox cars. It easily fits into a closet or let it sit out in the room so it’s easy to access.

2. Kitchen Cabinet Clutter

Stackable Can Organizer that is tiered and holds between 12 to 15 cans that are easily visible.

Pan Organizing Rack helps you keep your pans organized and easily accessed.

3. Pantry Clutter

Airtight Food Storage Containers keep food, fresh, and visible.

Tiered Spice Rack fits easily into a drawer and allows you to see all of your spices at one time.

4. Under Kitchen Sink Clutter

Under Kitchen Sink Organizer that pulls out, holds cleaning supplies, dishes, soap, sponges, etc.

Plastic Bag Organizer hangs on the door. You simply push your plastic bags into a hole and pull them out when needed.

5. Car Clutter

Front Seat Organizer keeps your car looking clean, and everything at your fingertips (phone, charger, laptop, paper, pen and water bottle)

6. Mail Clutter

Wall Mount Letter Tray with 4 to 5 bins helps you sort incoming mail and easily distribute it.

7. Bathroom Clutter

Over The Toilet Storage Cabinet stores soaps, shampoo, toilet paper, and it’s easily accessed.

8. Toy Clutter

Large Woven Decorative Basket holds toys, blankets and magazines. Because it’s decorative there’s no need to hide it.

9. Accessory ClutterSee on AmazonSee on Amazon

Over The Door Accessory and Shoe Organizer is great for scarves, hats, gloves, as well as shoes.

10. Closet Clutter

5 Tier Hanger hangs horizontally so you can see your clothes vertically. Perfect for skirts and slacks.

Drawer Dividers helps you easily see socks, underwear, and scarves, and can also be used for jewelry.

I do hope you find these organizing solutions as helpful as I do. Please feel free to email me at ritawilkins@ritawilkins.com if you have any questions.

Remember: Always declutter first then organize!

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! 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 The Downsizing Designer’s 10 Favorite Home Organizing Solutions first appeared on Design Services LTD.