Break Your Clutter Cycle – 3 Timely Tips

Messy Desk Clutter Cycle

The Clutter Cycle doesn’t have to eat you up!

I call it the Clutter Cycle. It’s a time thief that we often get questions about here at The Time Finder.

The Clutter Cycle eats into your time, energy, self-esteem, productivity, and peace of mind at every turn. You might not be conscious of it all the time, but it is draining and debilitating.

The good news is that the Clutter Cycle is one that you can step into and break at any point. It might not feel like it when you are staring at a room that’s filled to the brim with “stuff” … but it’s vital to remember that you hold the power.

Clutter Cycle Timely Tips

And here are 3 key tips you can use to carve out some clear space and create nourishing, revitalizing calm for yourself … whenever you’d like! You will be amazed at how powerful these 3 simple tips become as you practice them and incorporate them into your life:

1. Start small.

I can’t emphasize this enough. Don’t set yourself up for failure by expecting that you will be able to give yourself a fully de-cluttered office, desktop or family room right away. Instead, set goals that are absolutely within your reach. It’s okay if they require a small stretch, but you won’t start if you make your first step too daunting. How about 5-minutes of getting rid of unnecessary paper on your desk to start?

NOTE: Recycling makes this even easier, because you make it a two-step process. Putting your papers into a recycling container is less stressful than permanently getting rid of them AND it moves you in the right direction.

2. Celebrate every success!

The Clutter Cycle is a hard one to break, so give yourself credit when you follow through and happily acknowledge each accomplishment. This builds momentum, makes it fun, and reinforces a friendly relationship with yourself. It’s especially important when dealing with clutter because it so often triggers shame and self-criticism. Noting keeps the Clutter Cycle going better than your Inner Critic! So counter that negative voice with lots of pats on the back for any/all headway you make!

3. Build on what works.

As you explore de-cluttering (whether it involves your space or your time) you’ll develop systems, ways of communicating, and ‘tricks of the trade’ that work well for you. Be aware of these and use them often, adapting as circumstances change. You might even create a checklist for future reference.

BONUS TIP: As you may have guessed, any effort to de-clutter or create space involves creating boundaries. This means making tough decisions and letting go. As you get better at setting, communicating, and following through on your boundaries, you’ll find yourself with more space and less clutter.

Now, ask yourself: What is the first step you will take to address your Clutter Cycle?

  • Keep it small.
  • Do it today.
  • And drop me a line — I’d love to hear how it goes for you.

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