When I come onto the scene to work with a client, they’re usually at a point where they are frustrated, overwhelmed and not sure where to start on their decluttering and organizing project.  The project might be to clear a table, to reorganize an office or to tackle many rooms of their home.   What I like to share with people off the bat is:  “This isn’t TV, we need to take this an area at a time and we need to take into account energy levels.”  It usually takes quite a while for a home to get to a point of disorder and it takes a while to get it back in order.  Athough it is amazing how much can be done in just a few hours, which is always very exciting!   The decluttering process can use up our energy in several ways:

• Decluttering may be an emotional process for some people.  Everyone is different, but letting go of belongings can be harder for some people than for others.
• Decluttering takes physical energy as we may be moving & opening boxes, rearranging furniture and hefting heavy bins & bags.  I’ve even been known to move a piano when I’m really determined (don’t worry-I work out!).
• Decluttering also takes mental energy as clients have to think about, process and make decisions on each item we come across.

It’s important not to get burned out, stressed out or overwhelmed throughout the process.  Here are a few decluttering break tips:

• Stop to have a snack & a drink as you need it.  Don’t skip a meal if you are working through the day-you need your energy!
• Stop, take a break and rest for a while. 
• C hange your scenery-step outside and sit on th porch to get some fresh air.
• Use music to either sooth yourself or pump yourself up while you work.
• Work during the time of day that you have the most energy.  Are you a morning person or a night person?
• Change activities for a little while:  read a book, take a walk, take a nap.

Remember that decluttering and organizing is a process not an event.  Make the process as painless as possible so you can avoid feeling burned out and so you can  reach those important goals that you have!

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Tags: burned out, Decluttering, energy, goals, organizing, stressed out