Organizing Tip #8

Where is the clutter or stress coming from? Is it due to your actions or the actions of those you live with?

Many of our clients when faced with cleaning out their garages or attics find that some of the things lurking in the corners are not theirs, but their children’s things ranging from clothes to old records, stereo equipment, artwork, and even old school books.  Or, at times, there are items that the parent would like to give to the child but the child doesn’t have any storage room to take it quite yet.  Call it tough love, but there are times when you need to have your children come pick up their things, especially if you are in the midst of trying to downsize.

Additionally, many of us don’t live alone, and we share our home with loved ones who may have different visions than we do.  This makes it wonderful and sometimes complicated and definitely an area where compromise is essential.  I recently was at a presentation and during the Q & A, a woman said “my husband has boxes of old baseball caps and t-shirts and memorabilia from his college days that he won’t get rid of.  Let alone the number of tools and clothing he has scattered around the house which he never picks up.”  The presenter calmly responded “and who decided to marry him?”  He suggested she discuss with her husband how they would like to define a certain room/space.  What is the function of the room?  What is their individual vision for the space? What compromises can be made?  It may be surprising to discover that some might see the TV room as a family place to relax, play video games, and display some of their trophies.  Whereas, others may see it as more of a dual function TV room/library.   We’ve seen families come up with all sorts of different solutions and as always, it’s requires give and take.