Organize + Energize: The Power of a Closet Purge

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

 

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Purging your closet of winter clothes (and clothes you no longer wear) can be truly liberating.

Springtime: A time to switch over to an entirely new wardrobe and closet. It’s a time to adjust from wearing dark heavy clothes to lightweight clothes and bright colors. Our closets are refreshed and rejuvenated. Move your winter clothes out of the closet and store them in seal tight bins or space bags and remove them out of sight. Try to get them out of your closet by either storing them under the bed or high shelves in the closet. Try not to mix your summer and winter clothes. You will be in a different mindset when you look into your closet and see just summer clothes.

When you are getting ready to organize your closet, it’s not just about re-arranging the closet. Think about the clothes you are hanging onto. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. Why am I hanging onto clothes that are too big? Have you recently lost weight? You probably have clothes in your closet that are too big. Holding on to these clothes allows your mind to think that there is a chance that you will go back to that size. These clothes may be holding you back from your weight loss goals.

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2. Do I really want to fit in them again? These clothes are a reminder of what you used to be. Are you still that person? Mentally, these clothes may be holding you back from moving forward.

3. How did I feel when I wore them? Do you have bad memories from these clothes? Get rid of them if your answer is yes.

4. When was the last time I wore these clothes? Some say the rule is if you haven’t worn them in a year to get rid of them. I use a 2 year rule. Use this rule only if you love the piece of clothing, but you just didn’t get around to wearing it last season and you know you will definitely put it on this season. Now when next year rolls around, if you haven’t worn it, get rid of it.

5. Do I have clothes that are too small? On the other hand, you may have clothes that are too small. Be realistic. If you know there is no chance in the next 2 years that you will fit into these clothes, get rid of them. If you are a few sizes away from fitting into them, then by all means keep them as long as they are still in style and are in good condition.

Cleanse yourself and start fresh this season! Too many of you are hanging on to clothes that are too big and taking up room in your closet that could be used to house new clothes for the new you! While you are purging the closet of clothes, don’t forget to get rid of anything that is stained or ripped, or out of style. Shoes that the heels have seen their day, either throw away or take to the cobblers to be repaired if you know you will wear them again. Get rid of your old maternity clothes (especially if you aren’t having any more children), and don’t forget the prom dresses from the 80’s. Refresh, revitalize and energize your closets!

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Kristin Carcieri-MacRae, the founder and owner of Organizing in RI, has always enjoyed finding creative ways to streamline the environment around her. Kristin spent several years working in retail management, medical offices, and was even a successful certified personal trainer for 4 years. She discovered that in each of these fields she had a natural ability to streamline spaces and processes. Through her organizing ability and her passion for motivating others to achieve their goals, Kristin created Organizing in RI. Kristin has appeared on air on www.talkstreamradio.com and Patricia Raskin's Positive Business Radio. Her articles have been published in the Rhode Island Small Business Journal and New England Home Life. She is also available for organizing workshops.

 
 

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