A New Decade, A Fresh and Safe Start

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Oct 27, 2015

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A New Decade, A Fresh and Safe Start



With the start of a new decade, it's a great time to get a fresh start. Make your space safe and comfortable by getting rid of the stuff you really dont need or want anymore. The challenge is deciding what to let go of. Here are some helpful tips to consider.



Only keep what you LOVE and what you NEED.Everything else is just more stuffget rid of it!!



Ask yourself whats the worst thing that will happen if you let go of this item?



When is the last time you used this item?If its been more than a year, its not worth keeping.



Did this item come into your life for a reason (one time occasion), a season (for a little while) or a lifetime (a forever keeper)?



If it has a special memory but you really dont want it in your space anymore, take a picture of it and then let it go.



Would you enjoy the money youd get from selling the item more than keeping the item itself?



Here are some helpful tips for purging papers!



Schedule a particular time on your calendar to do this project.Get support from someone in your life before you start, and plan on reporting to them after to share your success!



Make it pleasant, put on music that is soothing and uplifting, preferably instrumental.(Lyrics can clutter your brain when youre trying to concentrate on this project!) Light a candle, open a window, get the air smelling good and fresh.



Remove all bills and statements that are from the previous year.If they need to be kept for tax purposes or permanent records, file them in your archive files Shred or recycle the rest.Remember: Tax files only need to be kept for seven years.



Glance through ALL of your files to purge what is no longer relevant. Example: Outdated events and documents, closed accounts, instruction manuals for items you no longer own, etc.



Reward yourself in some special way when you have finished!Its going to feel GREAT to get this handled, so go for it!!



If you are not able to complete these tasks on your own, hire a professional organizer.The cost will be offset by your increased safety and happiness.



Editors Note: The author, Cheryl Chandler, is a Professional Organizer experienced in handling the needs of seniors. Please call her at (801) 759-1195 for a FREE 15-minute Phone Consultation.

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