Is shopping your retail therapy? If you use shopping as a form of therapy, it will become a fast and uncontrollable problem.
Many years ago, I would qualify as an emotional shopper. Shopping became a therapy when I felt sad, happy, angry or bored. It became a huge financial burden for me and my family.
This unrestricted consumerism leads to clutter, both physical and mental. Here are eight familiar items that can clutter up fast without warning:
Cleaning products
Walk down the cleaning aisle in any store, and you’ll be overwhelmed by the collection of cleaning products available. While some serve a specific purpose, many are unnecessary. Instead of buying a new cleaner for every surface, consider eco-friendly, multipurpose cleaners that can replace several products.
Food waste
This is a global problem. The reason could be that we are buying more food than we can use. Before you go shopping for groceries, take inventory of your pantry, fridge and freezer. Create meals based on what you have. I suggest healthy soups, stews, chili or spaghetti.
Check out this website for delicious and affordable recipes: lidiasitaly.com
Cosmetic clutter
Let’s face it ladies, we are guilty of this bad habit. It seems we never have enough lipsticks, mascaras and lotions. These items tend to accumulate quickly in our bathrooms and bedrooms. Before reaching for that new bottle, check if any partially used products are hiding in the shower. Finish them off before buying replacements.
Wardrobe woes
Our closets are often stuffed with clothes we don’t like and don’t wear. Before shopping for new clothing, evaluate your existing wear. Donate or sell items you no longer wear or need. Focus on buying multipurpose pieces that can mix and match with what you already have.
Books and magazines
Book lovers are guilty of collecting books they intend to read “someday.” Before acquiring more, commit to finishing the books on your shelf. Consider donating to others when you’re done.
Home décor
Home décor consists of decorative pillows, vases, candles and artwork, and it can accumulate quickly. Before buying new décor, assess whether it will add value to your living space. Sometimes, decluttering and rearranging your existing items can refresh your home without spending a dime.
Kitchen gadgets
Kitchen gadgets can be fun and convenient, but they can also clutter your drawers and countertops. Before buying a new kitchen gadget, ask yourself if you’ll use it frequently or if it duplicates something you already have.
Office supplies
Stationery enthusiasts often find themselves with an overflow of pens, notebooks and art supplies. Use what you have first, before bringing more into your home.
When it comes to getting and staying organized, it’s essential to be aware of what we purchase. By using up what we have before buying more, we can reduce clutter in our homes and minimize the impact on the environment.
Transformational life coach Ranka Burzan owns a professional organizing company in the qathet region and has written several books on reducing clutter. For more information, email [email protected].
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