Posts Tagged ‘toxic environment’
Helping Your Parents with Letting Go
Helping Your Parents with Letting Go
Have you tried telling your parents that it’s time to declutter and to let go of some of things? How did that go? It’s usually a difficult conversation because no one wants to be told to downsize. And sorting through a life-long collection of belongings is hard work. But I know you love your parents and want to help them. Whether you’re standing by their side as they sort, or you’re offering some advice on their decisions, it can be an anxiety-inducing and emotionally draining experience. So, I have a few tips I want to share with you.
It Has Sentimental Value
While it is okay to save things with sentimental value, it’s also okay to let them go. There is a little guilt that comes along with sentimental items, the feeling that we must hold on to things that span time. It’s important for your parents to know that they don’t have to feel bad about getting rid of things. They might need to hear that they have permission to let things go, such as family heirlooms and your childhood artwork they’ve been holding on to for you. Sorting through special things can be tough but passing them along can be so rewarding.
A Lifetime of Collections
We are all collectors, of something, at every age. Your parents have been growing and curating their belongings, surrounding themselves with the things they love. So, having to minimize is a tough one. Instead of ‘getting rid of’ these items, use a ‘less of’ approach. Give them lots of time to select the most special 3 (or 5) pieces in their collection that they will keep.
We Might Need It Later
Probably not. And when the time comes, will we be able to find it or even remember we have it? It doesn’t matter, because hanging on to things ‘just in case’ feels better. You can help your parents learn to live with less with a few organizing tips. First is to group like items, to eliminate duplicates scattered around the house. Then, sort areas by separating items used daily versus occasionally so they can find what they need when they need it. You’ll be surprised by how many extras you find of those ‘just in case’ items.
We can help! Another Opinion has vast experience with clients of all ages; helping with clutter, organization and downsizing. Call Staci at Another Opinion 314-623-4594
Cleaning With Covid
Cleaning with Covid
Covid and cleaning..the two words we have all been hearing way more than we would like for the past few months. We know how to stay healthy when out and about, but what 
about the germs in our own home?Surfaces can also carry these germs and they can survive on them for long periods of time. During these times of Covid-19, letting someone into our home to clean for us, may not be the wisest decision. Here are some tips for Cleaning with Covid.
Surfaces to Focus On
To state the obvious, you should focus on the main areas of your house that are touched the most. This may include countertops, remotes, doorknobs, toilets, light switches and computers. It is recommended by the CDC to not only clean but disinfect on a regular basis to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 and other germs.
How to Clean and Disinfect
Cleaning means reducing the number of germs and dirt using soap and water, while disinfecting means killing the germs on surfaces with chemicals. It is important to remember to wear gloves when either cleaning or disinfecting. When it comes to the mostly used surfaces stated above, diluted bleach is recommended. When trying to make a surface germ free, it is recommended to start by cleaning the surface and then disinfecting it right after.
Soft Surfaces
We often can forget that our floors can also carry these germs. When it comes to our carpet, rugs and even drapes these items should be cleaned with soap and water, and laundered it possible with warm water.
We at Another Opinion hope that you and your families are staying safe and healthy during these times!
Sources: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/disinfecting-your-home.html
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/cleaning-disinfection.html
Moving Forward Through Clutter
We are all guilty of telling ourselves “Ill get to that next week” or “I will deal with that later.” Well eventually is NOW. These 5 steps are going to help you move forward in your life and home while also giving you tips for keeping it that way in the future.
Step 1: Stop Beating Yourself Up
You are busy, raising kids, working, taking care of loved ones, etc.. You are only able to give so much of your mental, emotional and physical wellbeing. The important thing to remember is this is normal, and to not beat yourself up about it.
Step 2: Accept That You Are a Different Person Now, and That’s Okay
Let’s talk about the items in your house, taking up space and just making you feel bad. If you are hanging on to things because you “used to love it”, then that is when you know it is time for it to go. It is time to get rid of the things that make you feel bad every time you see it in your house. If you desire it later, you could always get it again. An important rule for a clutter free home is to only surround yourself with things active in your life and make you feel good.
Step 3: Reset Your Boundaries
If you ask yourself “is it worthy to me?” and the answer is yes, then deem it acceptable to be near you. You are the Queen/King of your home so if it doesn’t make you happy, then it just simply has to go! If it is taking up space physically, it is also taking up space mentally.
Step 4: It Hurts…But Only For a Little Bit
You know the term “it’s going to hurt before it gets better”, it is sad, but true! Dealing with clutter and moving forward is hard work but there is relief on the other side that will feel so much better. You just have to do the work and deal with it. It will help if you do it on your terms, set a date and time frame. And find a way to make it fun whether that means with music, a favorite movie in the background, or wine!
Step 5: It Is Okay to Be Disorganized, in Moments
What?? Yup, you read that right! When you are living life, life happens… all over your house. That is when it is okay to allow yourself to be disorganized. However you must regain control and take the time to reset Put it back where you found it and only pull out what you NEED. This means everything needs to have a place for this to work. You will reset your life when you reset your home.
Do you need help moving forward? Another Opinion can give you just the push you need to take control of your life and home again. Call Staci today at 314-623-4594.
Refresh And Let Go- What To Keep And Let Go Of In 2020
Happy December! Here comes a new year and new decade. Let’s start the new year off right by taking the time to declutter and discard of all the things that are only, well, taking up space! It is the season of giving! So, let’s celebrate by not only giving to someone else, but also giving to yourself! Here are some tips on what you should be keeping and letting go of in the new year.
Give Yourself 3 Things…Let Go of 3 Things
Ask yourself this question, “Have I used this in the past 6 months?” Is the answer no? Then let it go! Think of your closet, and the clothes you haven’t touched in a while, and probably never will again! Gather 3 things (or more!) and take them to your local shelter or your favorite donation. A good tip to think of when giving and letting go of 3 things – one for yourself, one for someone else and one for your home!
Organize the Newly Open Space
Let’s go back to the closet. Now that you have let go of some of your clothes, wouldn’t it be the perfect time to clean and organize the whole thing? Those shoes we all have on our closet floor that are so cluttered, sometimes we can’t even find the other pair, let’s take care of that problem while we are at it! Buy a shoe organizer that will fit in your closet, so you’ll never have a missing shoe again. This goes back to giving to yourself and your home!
Bring Something In, Give Something Away
It is the holiday season and you will probably be having a lot of new things coming into your home. To prevent clutter from happening, try giving away something each time you get something new. If you have trouble with letting go or thinking of what to give away, try asking yourself, “Will I miss this item if it was gone tomorrow?” If the answer is no, let it go!
Learn From the Purge
To avoid making the mistake again this time next year, be mindful when it comes to shopping or how much stuff you are really bringing into your home. Start making smarter, more strategic choices going forward so you can avoid clutter.
Get Another Opinion
Do you need help with decluttering or purging? Or help with organizing? Another Opinion will help you get your new year started off right! Give Staci a call today at (314) 623-4594.
How to Quickly Reclaim a Space Overwhelmed by Summer Break Chaos
You walk into your house. You’re tired. You set your stuff down and immediately see a mess of stuff that has been left there by your family. The place looks like a grenade went off and exploded your kids’ belongings everywhere. Now, instead of feeling welcomed home, you feel stressed and overwhelmed.
Sound familiar?
Summer break can bring a lot of chaos to your home. With the kids out of their school routine and new activities started up for summer, your once organized home is now out of control. Don’t panic! Here’s a four-step process to help you reclaim any space quickly and easily.
- Assess the Situation
The first step to fixing anything is finding out where it all went wrong. Take a few minutes to assess what is causing chaos in a space that was once organized. New activities and the lazy days of summer are the likely culprits. Before you dig in to regain control, commit to what you want this space to be and how your family will use it. You might enjoy less arguing with your kids if you’re willing to accommodate their chaos as part of your strategy and intention for the space. And, remember it’s ok to have a summertime plan and a schooltime plan to maintain an organized home!
- Group Like Items
The fastest way to reclaim a space is to group like items. When you’re facing a mountain of chaos it’s easy to get overwhelmed and frustrated. So, turn your brain off to get through the mound quicker. Literally, put cups with other cups, clothes with other clothes, etc. As you sort, you’ll begin to notice items that don’t belong, but also items you’re prepared to get rid of or need to be trashed (bonus!). Using this simple method to break down any overwhelmed space will make decisions easier as you move forward with reclaiming it.
- Reset the Space
Now that you’ve regained control and have an intention on how to use the space, you’re ready for the reset! Start by considering others in the family, not just yourself, when creating an organization plan. Make it easy for them! You will keep chaos from returning and minimize future arguments if your reset is based on their willingness to join your commitment. Use colors, labels, bins and nets, or other fun ideas that could inspire your family to pitch in and keep it clutter free. Create a simple plan, all about them, and make it fun…. Now, picking up can be a quick summer activity and not a boring chore.
- Celebrate with a Tour
Show off your hard work! Celebrate your ‘new space’ by giving your family a tour. This is a great way to pass down your intention for how the space should be used. Also, it’s your opportunity to show them what you’ve done, and help them connect and take ownership of their things. Again, make it all about them, that you set the space for it to be fun and easy to pick up. With celebration in your voice and a positive attitude, your family will be more willing to adopt a new behavior and appreciate what you’ve created for them.
Do you need help reclaiming your space? Are you’re struggling to maintain a clutter free home? It might be time to get help from a professional. Instead of letting your space overwhelm you, call Staci with Another Opinion at (314) 623-4594 for a free consultation.
How To Be More Comfortable In Your Home
Have you ever stopped to think about how your home makes you feel? It’s a very important question. Your overall wellbeing is directly affected by the condition of your home. If you struggle with clutter and home organization, then you certainly know the feeling of a toxic environment. It’s time for a dose of self-awareness. It’s time to reset by connecting your lifestyle with your home. Here’s how to be more comfortable in your home!
First, recognize your feelings
Are you stressed with an unorganized home? Do shut down when you see piles? Have you stopped inviting friends over? Worried that you’re teaching your kids bad habits. When your home negatively impacts your life, you will feel it mentally, physically, emotionally and financially.
Next, learn more about yourself
At one point, your home was organized, and it felt good. But as daily life happens, it’s easy to neglect. To keep your home running smoothly it must remain current with your active life. So, look closely at the piles and pay attention to your patterns. Consider what changes you can make that will positively impact the organization of your daily life. Then, take the time to reset your home.
You’ve heard of creating ‘homes’ for your belongings
Make your ‘homes’ easy to commit to, so that you can expect and trust that items will be where you need them. Try to connect the activities in your home with the people who do them. Also, connect the location of items with the path they move throughout your home. When you take the time to connect your home with your lifestyle you will find a more peaceful environment.
Now, you can nurture a home that makes you feel good
When you nurture your home, you’re fostering change as it happens, so that it will remain current with your active life. But you still have to commit to self-awareness. When you see a pile creeping up, take time to notice and reset the ‘homes’ if necessary. If you nurture your home you will certainly feel it. And the next time you think about the way your home makes you feel, you’ll have an answer… such as, relaxed, calm, grateful, confident, happy, peaceful ….
Get Help From A Professional
Don’t be afraid to call a professional to help you get started. An outsider’s perspective will give you clarity and keep you motivated to get your project completed.
Another Opinion will help you reclaim spaces in your home and find relief from overwhelming stuff. Contact Staci to start transforming your life!