Coaching Corner: Ready to let go of that?
By Marilou Butcher Roth, Master Coach
Today, we will explore the mechanics of decluttering -- clearing our environment of items no longer relevant in our lives. Ready?
Let’s focus first on your home. Grab a notebook of some kind, something that is not too small, along with a pen or pencil. With your notebook and pen in hand, walk through your home with a very discerning eye. Take that a step further and begin to identify the places where clutter lives. As you write, break the items down into small bits. For example, do not list “kitchen;” nope, definitely not small enough. Break it down as much as you need to. Don’t hesitate to note each drawer and cabinet separately if need be. There is no grading happening here for you, just a creation of a manageable list that you can tackle without feeling overwhelmed.
OK, is your list done? Great! Estimate how long it may take to accomplish the action -- some will be mere minutes, while others might require an hour or two. Once that is complete, look at your list and feel into which items, if complete, would give you the most relief, and highlight those.
You are now ready to begin the actual decluttering process. I find it helpful to plug “home projects” in my weekly schedule. This could be on one day or more if you like -- it's all up to you. The key here is consistency, so if you have “home projects” on a Saturday, for example, go back to your list and choose an item that best fits on that particular day. Again, whatever you choose is up to you.
Consistency with decluttering is critical. Once you get into the groove, you will find yourself living in the home you always knew you could have. This same method can be used for any part of your world that’s become cluttered. Enjoy the process...and the results!
Marilou Butcher Roth
Marilou Butcher Roth is the owner of The MBR Group, a coaching and training company working primarily with REALTORS who have a desire to work and live from a more inspired place. She is also the Broker/Owner of Group REALTORS in Cincinnati.
Marilou is a member of the Ohio REALTORS Board of Directors and past chairman of the organization’s Communications Committee.
