Bon Journal

Drowning in clutter - part 2

I've come to a simple conclusion for the cause of my clutter problem. The rate of input (accumulating clutter) is much higher than the rate of absorption/digestion/decision-making. As a result, the rate of output (getting rid of clutter) is just too slow for comfort.

The rate of absorption or digestion refers to the rate at which I'm able to absorb or digest information. Equally, it's the rate at which I'm able to consume food or use goods. The rate of decision making refers to the rate at which I'm able to decide what to do with the stuff. Should I keep it? If I keep it, where should I put it? Should I get rid of it? If I get rid of it, should I throw it away? Or should I give it to someone I know? Or should I donate it? Or should I sell it? Or should I recycle it?

You see, there are too many decisions to be made in the stage before the clutter actually leaves the house. There lies the rub. It's complex. It's time-consuming. It's boring. It's the last thing I want to do on a Saturday evening. And so the rate of accumulation accelerates until I give it attention.

10 February 2002 Sunday

What is clutter?

Just compare how you feel when you're staying in a hotel versus when you're at home. In a hotel, you don't see any of your junk. It gives you a peace of mind. Hence, a clutterless existence should give you that peace of mind.

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amazon.com

amazon.co.uk

Let Go of Clutter

by Harriet Schechter

Hardcover 288 pages (1 December, 2000)