Declutter Challenge 2019!

New Year, New Start - Set Goals, Make a Plan, Act!

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN THE ISSAQUAH HIGHLANDS CONNECTIONS NEWS, JANUARY 2019 ISSUE

​https://issuu.com/ihconnections/docs/january-2019-connections-issaquah-h/20

The holidays can leave us feeling depleted and overwhelmed. But then January pops up and gives us the chance to start fresh once again. I always find that it comes with a renewed sense of hope and inspiration! In addition to my monthly tips, for 2019 I am starting a new decluttering challenge. It will give you a way to make even more progress toward an organized home each month. And by the end of the year, you can look back and see how far you’ve come, and how your life has become more peaceful and simple!

Most people make resolutions at the start of the year, and self improvement usually holds a top spot. By getting organized, you automatically give yourself, and those around you, a higher quality of life. It truly is a form of self care. You will have lower stress and more time to spend on the things that matter to you. With systems in place, you won’t waste time searching for things, and cleanup will be a breeze. Getting ready for work or school won’t be a chore, and making meals will become less stressful. Chaotic mornings will be a thing of the past. 

Your first challenge will be to carve out some time to sit down and think about what you want your plan to look like. What are your goals? What spaces give you the most grief? How much time do you have to dedicate to your projects? If you don’t have the time, are you in the position to hire a professional? And what opinions do your family have about what would be most helpful?

Next, you will want to set a priority list. And even if you feel like your garage would be your first choice, I want you to think about the spaces you frequently use and the areas that cause you the most frustration. Let’s knock those off the list first! After you have written your list and edited it based on priority, finances and family input, type it up and place it front and center on your refrigerator or bulletin board. It is going to be your guide to supplement my articles for the year. ​​

I can’t wait to see all we can accomplish this year! If you have any questions, or need help formulating a plan, please do not hesitate to reach out. If you are taking the Declutter Challenge, watch for my poll on the unofficial Facebook group page. This month I will ask what you chose as Priority #1 on your list. I'd like to see if households in this community differ widely in this choice, or not! ​

Happy 2019!

~Johnna