People often decide to get rid of clutter immediately before or after a significant change in their lives. Before the arrival of a new baby, this period is sometimes referred to as nesting. But, the same thing can happen with a promotion at work, an illness, or even around a vacation. We follow a desire to get rid of the old to make way for the new.

When this desire to purge can’t be ignored any longer, it’s a good idea to sit down and do a little bit of planning before diving into the process.

1. Determine the overall goal of the project. Envision what you want the end result to be and keep this goal in mind as you work through the next steps.
2. Create a timeline. Estimate how long it is going to take you to work through your project. A closet cleanse might take just a few hours, but a garage overhaul might consume an entire weekend.
3. Rally the troops. It’s often more fun to work with others instead of on your own. Also, an outsider’s opinion might be a good voice of reason when you’re in the weeds of the project. Plus, it’s fun to have someone share in toasting your success at the end of the project.
4. Gather supplies. Get boxes or bags for sorting your things into piles of keep, trash, recycle, repair/return, and sell. You might also have an additional container for items you want to wait to get rid of because you’re not ready to make a decision about right now.
5. Finally, get your hands dirty. Work through the process until you have achieved your desired goal.

Good luck, and I hope that it’s a positive change that is inspiring you to get rid of the clutter and make room for new possibilities.