...But please help me!
Nope, I'm not going to tell you what to do with your stuff.....but I do have a tried and tested method to help you get unstuck from taxing and stop/start decision-making.
Decluttering can be exhausting because there are just so many decisions to make. To decide if you keep or part with an item, you need to think about it...right? And then how do you know if you are making progress and challenging yourself to do a 'good' job at decluttering....if there is such a thing....Are you keeping things that really in 6 months.... one year ...two, three...years, you will part with?
One of the triggers for engaging the support of a decluttering specialist is to help with the decision-making process....engaging a second pair of eyes, bringing in different points of view, and helping shift subjectivity to a more objective view.
When I work with my clients, helping them to transition to a more objective viewpoint, I use a set of metrics. This enables my clients to make their own decisions based on question prompts. It's not my role to tell someone what they should or should not keep. If you've ever experienced someone pushing their opinion onto you, you know firsthand how stressful it can be......to part with something based on what someone else says. The decision doesn't feel 'ready' and resentment and regret can result.
The Golden 11 Cs
Questions to ask yourself.....
The metrics below are specifically related to a clothing detox, but could also be adjusted for relevancy for other areas of your home.
You can rate the metrics below from most important to least important. Then, focus on the areas that weigh most heavily for you. You may think of other important metrics, in addition to the list below.
1. Colour
Does the colour look good on me?
Do I like the colour?
2. Condition
Is the garment in good condition?
If not, why has it taken so long to fix (if it can be fixed.. and is it worth getting it fixed?)
Are there stains, rips, broken zips, dead elastic?
3. Current
Is this clothing item in fashion?
4. Classic
Is this item a classic style?
Will it stand the test of time?
5. Cut
Do I like the cut and does it flatter features I want flattered?
6. Care
Is it easy to care for?
Do I need to get this item dry-cleaned and can I be bothered?
7. Combination
Is this item easy to pair with other items in my wardrobe?
Is it versatile?
8. Character
Does this clothing item reflect me and the image I want to project?
9. Climate
Does this item suit the climate I live in?
10. Cost to replace
Is this a quality item that will be expensive to replace?
11. Comfort
Do I feel comfortable wearing this item?
Is it too tight, short, revealing, or frumpy?
Using the list above, you can gradually get into the habit of asking yourself the questions that matter most.
At first, it might feel a little weird and take time, but with practice, your thinking will naturally gravitate to solution-finding rather than going around circles about whether to keep something.
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