Box 1: stuff you’re keeping and packing properly (so, box 1 is a series of boxes that are neatly packed, organized, and labeled)
Box 2: stuff that’s fine, but is being sold or donated (if those are two genuine categories, then you actually have 4 boxes at play, not 3)
Box 3: it’s broken, useless, or trash – throw out

For each item you pick up, the question is this: “what is this item adding to my life?”

So, you might pick up a book and think “I love this book, I can’t wait to read it again” – it goes in box #1. The next book you pick up might bring up “this was a gift, I didn’t get past page 20, and I will never read this thing” – welcome to box #2!

The problems tend to pop up when you think “but I MIGHT need this later” and head for box 1.

For example, let’s talk about the theoretical fondue set you got for a wedding gift. You’ve never used it, you’re not keen on melted cheese or chocolate, and that food doesn’t fit in your diet anyway, but here you are debating keeping that dusty box because you might need it some day. Examine THAT voice carefully. At the point where you actually decide to use this thing, it’s probably 10 years from now, and you won’t be able to find this thing anyway, because you never use it and it’s packed away in the back corner of the storage area in your basement!

It’s a daily use item, a frequent use item, or your love it and it makes you happy? Box 1. Otherwise, think hard about box 2.

Also, try http://unclutterer.com/ and http://zenhabits.net/crutches/
If you need help, Cecilia Moorcroft from http://spaceforlife.ca/ is fantastic.

Incidently – I’ll be available for a meeting on December 6th, if you are available for a coffee?