10 Things to Declutter During Christmas to Start the New Year Right
by Deon Cecile
“When you are overwhelmed, tired and stressed, the solution is almost always less. Get rid of something. Lots of somethings.” ~ Courtney Carver
NO NEW YEAR CLUTTER!
I know it’s Christmas - that magical time of year again when the holiday season is in full swing! The smell of fruit cakes and gingerbread cookies fills the air, the twinkling lights are aglow, and the joyful anticipation of Christmas morning is building. While you enjoy the festivities – eating, drinking, liming with family and friends, putting out the new bed linen and curtains, and dusting off your best chinaware - the holiday season is also about spreading love, joy, and goodwill to others and yourself.
How do you do this? By decluttering – donating, re-gifting, or trashing things that you have never used, barely used, and likely will not use anyway. The good thing is you still have a few days to end the year right. So, right after Christmas Day, use the opportunity to declutter your space for the new year. It will be a great way to shed those extra pounds you may have gained overnight – remember that last ham sandwich you had at midnight with the ice cream on the side drizzled with caramel and chocolate?
Plus, this will be a great way to spread holiday cheer and love by donating the good items to someone in need while trashing the damaged stuff, making way for a clearer space, physically and mentally.
LET'S SIMPLIFY!
No. 1 - Excessive Decorations
While decking the halls with boughs of holly is delightful, it's easy to go overboard with decorations. Take a moment to assess your collection and donate or discard items you no longer use or love. Streamlining your decorations will make it easier to decorate next year and reduce holiday stress. Check out your nearest children's home which may need additional decorations for the next holiday.
No. 2 - Outgrown or Unused Toys
If you have children, Christmas often means an influx of new toys. Before Santa's delivery, involve your kids in a toy purge, encouraging them to donate toys they've outgrown or no longer play with to needy children. This teaches them the valuable lesson of giving and keeps your home clutter-free.
No. 3 - Old Greeting Cards
While it's heartwarming to receive holiday cards, holding onto them year after year can lead to clutter. Sort through your collection, keep a few sentimental ones, and recycle the rest. Consider digital alternatives like creating a folder for e-cards to cherish the warm wishes without the paper pileup.
No. 4 - Obsolete Electronics and Gadgets
Many people receive electronic gifts during the holidays. Take stock of unused or obsolete electronics, like old smartphones, chargers, or broken devices. Consider recycling or selling them, creating a tidier and more efficient living space.
No. 5 - Unused Gift Wrapping Supplies
Over the years, you may have amassed a collection of gift wraps, ribbons, and bows. Discard the wrinkled or damaged items and keep only the essentials. Organize your gift-wrapping supplies neatly, making it easier to wrap presents while reducing waste.
You may think its counterintuitive to declutter after Christmas, but it sets the stage for a fresh start in the new year. ~ Deon Cecile
No. 6 - Unread Books and Magazines
While you may enjoy curling up with a good book or magazine during the holiday season, it's time to declutter if you have piles of unread reading material. Donate or pass along books you're unlikely to read again and consider digital subscriptions to reduce paper clutter in the future.
No. 7 - Excess Holiday Craft Supplies
If you're a DIY enthusiast, you may have accumulated a surplus of holiday craft supplies over time. Assess your collection and keep only the essentials for upcoming projects. Donating unused craft supplies to schools or community centers can also spread holiday cheer.
No. 8 - Worn-out Holiday Attire
Your festive wardrobe can accumulate over the years, with sweaters, scarves, and accessories that have seen better days. Declutter your holiday attire by repurposing or trashing these items. This will make room for new outfits and ensure you look your best during the holiday season.
No. 9 - Expired Holiday Foods
Christmas is synonymous with delicious treats and indulgent meals. However, it's easy to forget those canned cranberries or the jar of mincemeat that's been lurking in your pantry for years. Check expiration dates and clear out expired holiday foods to make room for fresh, healthier options in the new year.
No. 10 - Unfulfilling Traditions
Sometimes, we engage in holiday traditions that no longer bring joy or meaning. Reflect on your family's traditions and consider streamlining or replacing those that no longer resonate with you. Embracing new, meaningful traditions can infuse the holiday season with fresh enthusiasm.
LESS IS MORE!
Decluttering during Christmas may initially seem counterintuitive, but it sets the stage for a fresh start in the new year. Parting with unnecessary items and simplifying your surroundings will create a more peaceful and organized environment. Plus, you'll have more time and energy to focus on what truly — cherishing moments with loved ones and welcoming New Year opportunities. So, my friends, as you deck the halls this holiday season, remember to declutter and make room for a brighter, less cluttered, and joyful future.
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Welcome to my blog, "Penned Inspiration," an expressive hub where I enjoy sharing my inspirations and stories. I am Deon Cecile, a Jamaican Writer, Blogger, and Aspiring Author. This space is dedicated to stories about Women Over 40, Wellness, Lifestyle, Organizing, Decluttering, and pretty much anything that I find fun and inspiring. I invite you to delve into my content today and discover something that may help/inspire you, or make you smile. I hope you enjoy reading and please feel free to leave a comment or idea below, I'd love to hear from you.
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I'm guilty of number 3, it's so hard to decide which ones to keep and which ones to discard.