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Stuff. Possessions. Things. We all have way too much of it. Especially if you have children or if you are one to hold onto things for sentimental reasons. (You know who you are!) There may be a psychological underlying reason why you hold onto your stuff, but no matter what the reason is, there are ways to help reduce and reuse it.
Here are some ideas to reduce and reuse:
Birthday party favors. When my girls come home from birthday parties, the flood of plastic trinkets and useless odds and ends end up where? In the trash, then ultimately in the landfill or cluttering up bedroom desks. This year, for my six year-old’s party favor, I let the kids take home their own plant. Not one pined for the predictable bag of candy and trinkets. The joy on their faces (and their parent’s) was priceless!
Organization books—Clutter Control: Tips and Crafts to Organize Your Bedroom, Backpack, Locker, Life by American Girl Editors. My “almost 10 year old” was drawn instantly to this book in the store. She is actually saving the clever ideas to work on de-cluttering her room this summer. Eliminate Chaos: The 10-Step Process to Organize Your Home and Life is a well-reviewed organization book which offers advice that includes the “realistic, messy, all-important steps in between.”
EcoSalon’s blog, How to: 10 Tips for a Successful Clothing Swap, reminds me of my college days. This is such a fabulous way to get rid of the things you no longer need or wear and get some new threads.
E How offers great suggestions on how to reuse everyday items in lieu of continually tossing them into the recycling bin.
A blogger on Blogher.com that I came across wrote, Reduce Clutter by Going Paper Free . Be sure to read her efficient, ecologically-aware ideas.
If you haven’t watched the video already, this is a big MUST…the Story of Stuff with Annie Leonard . Yes, it’s 20 minutes, but it’s is captivating and worth every minute of your time! Teaching you environmental and social issues without being too preachy, Annie Leonard forces you look and really think about the stuff you have in your life.
I love George Carlin. This 1986 standup routine about “stuff ” should bring a smile to your face. Keep in mind, it is George Carlin, so be wary if your children are around!
I envy my friends who do not have piles around their homes. I always wonder where their stuff is? Is it because they have more cabinets or drawers? Or have they moved so many times, they have come to realize that less is more manageable? My goal is to master the art of reducing and reusing.
Do you have any innovative ideas on how to reduce and reuse? We’d love to read about it. Leave a comment so that everyone can take advantage and help our environment.
