January 2012 Do you have room for all your new gifts? The holiday season causes challenges for people who already have "too much stuff." Please consider keeping only what you NEED, LOVE, and will USE. Just because you were given a gift doesn't mean you can't return or exchange it. OR, even donate it to someone who will appreciate it more than you will. If you feel guilt, you very well might keep items around you'll never use which will only add to your clutter. Professional Organizers are great to call in this time of year as we're not emotionally attached to your items. You might say that you'll use your new items "someday." If you don't like cooking, it's not likely that you'll use the cool gadgets anytime soon. They'll get in the way of the kitchen items you do use, and you may feel bad you're not using them. Live in the now! If your interests change, you'll acquire items then. You might say that it "works" so you shouldn't part with it. If you have limited space, then you need to LOVE it and USE it regularly. Any working item you're so-so about, give to someone who really, really wants it. Did you pay a lot of money for your stuff? There is a cost to clutter with your stress level and chaos in your surroundings (and in your mind.) We all make mistakes with what we buy. Please forgive yourself! Think of what you NEED, LOVE, and will USE. Need means an essential item (like personal records and documents.) It's different than "want." Love changes over time depending on your interests and memories (can your memory and a picture be sufficient rather than keeping the object?) Use on a fairly regular (or seasonal) basis to cook, clean, repair or wear. If it's stuffed in boxes or the back of a closet that you haven't touched in a few years, then you don't need, love or use it. Right?! I promise you will feel great if you're able to let go of things and live a simpler life. You'll realize you don't need as much as you thought.