Declutter Challenge 2022 - Before We Begin

Like any challenge, we need to do a bit of prep before we get going.

Decluttering is all about getting stuff out of your space. That includes:

• Garbage

• Broken and damaged items

• Things that belong in other spaces in your home

• Stuff that needs to be returned to a Sew Mate

• Objects you no longer need, use, or like

• Things that no longer serve you

• Stuff that no longer makes sense in your space

Already overwhelmed? Just take a deep breath, and tell yourself that "You Got This".

To set yourself up for success, try out my tips and tricks.

Watch my Video "Organize Your Sewing Space - Part #2"

Be Ready With An Exit Strategies

Have donation boxes ready, and know to whom they will be sent. Understand what your local area can recycle, and where the recycling centre is. Have a trash bin nearby.

Have Your Questions Ready

Some decisions are going to be easy, while some will take time. When things get tough, have these questions printed or written and placed in an easily seen spot.

- Do I love it?

- Not sure? On a scale of 1-10 where is it at?

- When did I last touch it?

- When did I last use it?

- Is this a duplicate?

- What is it that I like about it?

- How does this make me feel?

Grab a Journal

Handling your stuff will create squirrels (i.e. cute and good ideas that distract you from decluttering). Have a journal, post-it notes, or your smartphone ready so you can write them down and deal with them later.

Have a Declutter Buddy

And be a buddy to someone else. Share your stories on Facebook or Instagram using #declutterchallenge2022.

Know Where You Are Going

Have a picture in your head of what your space will look like at the end. Forget the fancy filming sets or the 2000 sq foot sewing studios. See the potential in what you have.

You Need To Commit

If you are really serious about doing this, set time aside every day when you will get it done. I'm going to do it first thing in the morning because I like checkmarks, and checking something off at the beginning of the day energizes me. But that might not work for you. Maybe just before lunch, or after dinner fits into your schedule better. Just make sure you pick a time when you still have the energy.

Know Your Limits

These are meant to be short 15-30 minute bursts of decluttering. It's not a marathon. Decluttering is a cycle. We live in a time where material things (no pun intended) flow in and out of our lives. So if at the end of 21 days, you still have work to do, simply start again.