react to this term: letting go
So, I have been applying this to my closet. It had become a source of stress as it was so messy. It was time to create space for something new and to make better use of what I have. I applied five simple rules to help me.
Use it - enjoy - move on
Accept that what is 'you' for a while, may decidedly not be you later on. So, as life changes, use - enjoy - move on. Let it go.
Keep the clothes you wear - the others go
Follow the 80/20 rule. You will wear 20% of what you have 80% of the time. So start sorting honestly your clothes into two piles. Get rid of the rest. I have been quite ruthless and applied a one year rule; basically, if I haven't worn it in a year, put in the pile for the charity shop.
This isn't wasteful. You can sell on Ebay (do it now), give to friends or give the good stuff to charity shops. Just do it now or it won't happen. We had one letter which told us that just a part of what we had given to a made them £90 which I could never have made trying to sell them. Some clothes are exported by charities to third world countries.
Only keep clothes that make you feel good
Try clothes on and, if you don't like anything about it, let it go. If anything is the wrong colour, the wrong cut or the wrong fit, let it go. Don't give yourself second best, have the best you can to lift your spirits.
Buy fewer but better
Never buy anything again which isn't quite what you want. It is so easy to be lured by a cheap item that is reduced, but how much have you saved if it soon ends up in the 80% pile? That sale item may not be such a bargain! I have been following this rule for a while and I can't believe what I have saved. Instead, buy a few outfits that make you feel gorgeous, preferably which you can mix and match, even if they cost more. You will save money and look and feel better.
Don't be afraid to let go
Don't hang onto things that might 'come in',which just need a button or repairing. If you are going to repair it, do it now or it won't happen. (I carried out repairs on three dresses the day the photos were taken). Also, don't keep things which are too small for if you lose weight. You are more likely to lose weight if you look good in clothes which fit you as you are now, and which make you feel good.
Letting go, in itself, can be uplifting. Plus, I have been left with things I love and want to wear, and the joy is I can now add more of what I like!
Have a great day
If it wasn't for my husband, I think I would be a border line hoarder! LOL! I tend to keep things thinking I will repurpose them, but then it sits in my craft room or closet for months (ok, years). I finally purged my closet a few months ago and gave almost 100 items of clothing to Goodwill that either did not fit or I hadn't worn in the last year. It really did feel good to let go of them all!
ReplyEva @ Snappee Turtle
It does feel good doesn't it? I always feel refreshed after I've done it! x
I apply these rules every time I clear out my closet.
ReplyMel
http://mels-corner.blogspot.com/
They always work for me and I always feel relieved when its done. :)
I was dropping by from the link up to check your post for today's prompt but I surely am glad to come across this post of yours! Definitely following this once I get home and fix my new room!
Reply<3 Gab
PS I'm guilty for the cheap find. :3 have to get over that habit! Quality over quantity!!
Thanks so much Gab, I'm glad you like it. I am going to be making over my room too! x