Are you struggling to have a cleaner, more organized, and beautifully decorated home? Maybe you keep moving things around, trying to achieve a cohesive, uncluttered look, and it doesn’t seem to work. And you feel the harder you try, the worse it gets. For over 20 years, I’ve helped clients turn messy, chaotic spaces into relaxing, uncluttered homes. During that time, I have discovered that sometimes buying habits can sabotage your ability to decorate and organize your home.
Let me explain. Many people think buying more will solve the problem – and advertisers certainly want you to believe that too. The perfectly staged photos online make a convincing argument that more containers will corral the clutter, and more furniture will make your space feel comfortable. Unfortunately, with this “shop-until-you-drop” lifestyle, you may not even be aware that you are sabotaging your desire for a tranquil home.
It’s time to clear the slate and develop some new habits that will lead to success.
Simplicity Brings Clarity of Mind
Before you purchase anything new, please, declutter. When you have less clutter in your home, you can truly see the potential of your space. Let go of anything you haven’t used in over a year, decorative items that no longer bring you joy, uncomfortable furniture and the furniture you just don’t like. When your space is clear, sit back and think about what you want it to look like and how you want it to feel. Take photos of your clutter-free space for additional inspiration.
Avoid Impulse Purchases
I know it’s hard, but saying no to impulse purchases is crucial to your success when creating a calm and clutter-free home. Avoid home décor stores (and websites!) until you have a plan and a list of exactly what you need. Do not buy pretty boxes and bins until you know where they are going and what they will contain. And please, don’t buy something just because it’s on sale!
Shop with a List and a Design Plan
Shopping without a list is dangerous – especially if you are prone to impulse buying. Whether you go to the grocery store, a home improvement store, or a furniture store, you need a list. And complete your design plan before you venture out to a store or shop online so you won’t sabotage your ability to achieve a harmonious look with your decor. A good design plan will help keep you focused and ensure you purchase only what you need. And, if you spend some time browsing online, you can find inspiration for storage solutions and home décor and put everything together to create the look and feel you want before you buy anything.
Measure Twice, Shop Once
I know I’ve said it before, and I will say it again – measure, measure, measure. If you are redecorating a room in your home, draw a floor plan and measure the space. Include measurements of the furniture you are keeping and place them on the floor plan to scale. When you know what size sofa your living room can accommodate, you avoid costly mistakes if the store won’t accept a return. Also, remember to measure the doorways, hallways, and staircases leading to your space. It’s embarrassing to watch the delivery people try unsuccessfully to wedge new furniture up the stairs, then put it back on the truck because it won’t fit in your home.
You also need to measure containers and shelving. You need to know the depth and width of a shelf so you can order the correct size and number of bins. If you add shelving to a closet, you also need an accurate measurement of depth, width, and height. Take photos of the closet before you go to the store to purchase storage solutions.
Don’t sabotage your ability to decorate and organize your home. Follow my suggestions, and you will be more successful in finding items that meet your needs. Take your time and enjoy the process. If you can’t find the perfect solution, don’t buy anything, contact me instead. I’d be happy to help.