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It seems like today is the day we’re normally starting the Declutter Challenge, but the first Monday of January is the latest possible date this year – January 7th! I almost thought of starting in December or even going one day shorter to 90 days just to start the challenge today, but ultimately it didn’t make as much sense as waiting. But, I know that so many of you are full of energy and momentum, you are just itching to get started getting organized. I get it! I feel it too!
I came up with a list to help give you some ideas on how to use your energy in a productive and positive way! Here’s what I think you should organize this week of New Years.
- It’s time to go through the holiday stuff and ditch what you don’t love anymore. Why store it until next year if you don’t love it? (Here’s some tips to putting away Christmas.)
- Get your planner ready. While there is nothing that says you can only start using a planner and get your time organized at the start of a New Year, it feels so good to start the year off with a plan. (Use whatever planner fits you, but personally I think my planners are awesome!)
- Get a head start decluttering problem areas. I know I’m always saying to just do the declutter challenge one day at a time, and to stay with the group, BUT, I also know that I put the very hardest place the very first week. Over the years, more people quit during Master Bedroom Closets than any other week. Maybe I shouldn’t tell you, but I’m more of a “let’s just get the truth out there so you can prepare yourself.” The first week of the Decluttering Challenge is going to be hard, so I think it is okay to get ahead of it and start early. (Get your printable so you know what to do!)
- Another way to prepare for the Declutter Challenge is to read, read, read. If you are not already busting with motivation to declutter, start reading. (See links above for what to read.)
- While I think Christmas break should be full of lots of fun for the kids, I don’t think it should be all fun. I think giving kids some jobs and responsibilities is good. I plan on my kids all deep cleaning their rooms this week. (I shared a FREE Room Cleaning Printable yesterday.)
- Come up with your “word” for 2019. (Read on for more info.)
My Word for 2019
Another thing I’m doing this New Years is thinking about my One Word Resolution? Have you heard of this before or do you have one? It is becoming really popular. I think it is great. Basically, you think of a word that summarizes your focus for change in the New Year.
My word (which I know is 2 words – ha!): Get Dressed.
Guess what, you can have an organized house and be in your pajamas 90% of the time! Ask me how I know … You may think I’m trying to make a joke out of this, but I’m a person who is a homebody by nature. Part of loving being home is simple: I enjoy pajamas and I don’t enjoy getting dressed every day. Yep, I said it. I sometimes shower and put pajamas BACK ON (clean ones, but still). The thing is, being in my pajamas stops me from doing things that are good for me – joining a friend on the spur of the moment, walking out to say hello to a neighbor, joining my kids for their bike rides, and more. Yes, if I really need to go somewhere, I get dressed, but I think my days would be better if I just get dressed automatically every day. This is huge for me. Another thing I can’t actually believe I am typing for the world to read, but whatever! If I can tell you this, I guess I’m just ready to confess it all. The flood gates are open. š
Honestly, I think those things are enough to keep you busy this week and hopefully have some time leftover to soak up some memories with friends and family. Let me know if you have a word for 2019!
Happy New Years!!!
From my home to yours,
Mary
What did you choose to make this a 13 week challenge?
When I started this challenge years ago it was because I wanted to go through my whole house, so I made a list of rooms and it totaled 13 weeks (which is 91 days). Since then, it has just become a thing.
Do the 3 ring binders for a Franklin Covey?
Are you asking if the personal size pages fit a 3 ring Franklin Covey? It has been so many years since I’ve owned a Franklin Covey that I am not sure. See if you fold a printer page in half – does that fit?
Yes! Totally understand the goal of getting dressed. I used to follow the “FlyLady,” and her first rule was get dressed down to your shoes (she insisted on ones that lace up — I couldn’t adhere to that… especially not in the summer), but getting dressed and ready for the day really makes a difference!
Yes, I love flip flops or even bare feet! And thanks for understanding. š
Love your word(s). I am a SAHM and I also have showered and put pj’s on. The other day I worked out with my daughter and took a shower and wondered aloud if it was too early for pj’s. LOL
If I was there, I would have said “no, absolutely not too early!” Ha!
She told me it was too early. š my clothes are similar to pajamas though.
Well, sounds like you still win in the end. My clothes are comfortable too. Comfort first! But not so comfortable that I’d be embarrassed grocery shopping while wearing them.
That’s my word too. Since I retired I have been in my pajamas more than my regular clothes. It was just easier and more comfortable. But, I have realized that I don’t do things with my hubby much anymore because I’m in my PJ’s. So, this year I am going to get up and get dressed just in case he want to do something that day. He has never said anything, but I know he is disappointed when I say I can’t go because I’m not dressed or have my hair done. I want to enjoy my retirement and my husband.
I’m so happy I’m not the only one.
You are not alone! Check back in and let me know how you’re doing with it!
I’m so excited about starting this program with you! My word for the year is FOCUS!
I’m so glad you’re joining us. I love your word for the year!
Hi Mary!! So glad to read all your posts again! They are usually the highlight of my week and give me such great ideas. Thank you. I like your new years resolution š . I usually pick too many and dont accomplish any! I am still figuring out mine.
Hi Jill! Glad to be back and hear from you again! And my suggestion would be to pick one thing to focus on. Don’t make a list, because that usually feels like a list of “all the things I’m failing at” which really isn’t productive. Think of one area that you can focus on and make some progress. The other things will come when they come!
I love this post. I usually make a list of all the things Iām failing at but never thought of it that way. Thank you for this. Iām going to focus on unpacking from our Christmas trip and go from there. š
So glad to help! Be good to yourself!
All good ideas. My word is Peace. It started with which Advent candle I wanted to light my candle from on Christmas Eve, and has been reinforced by the devotional readings several days since then. Decluttering is definitely necessary to help me achieve Peace. Thanks for your help.
That has been my word before too!
My word would be “Clean”. I’ve been taking your challenges, but seem to have a problem getting started. I used to think moving things into a storage container would help. Luckily, my husband said no because it would still be there, the good, the bad and the ugly. I’ve gone through Breast Cancer, Cataracts of both eyes, and replacement of both hips…ā¦…I think I can do 91 days of cleaning. I read somewhere about the “2 Minute Rule”. If you think something can be done in 2 minutes (like emptying the dish washer), just do it. I’ve tried this suggestion and have gotten many things done. Also I have found that things become a real habit if you so it everyday. Thank you, Mary and fellow Clutter Bugs, for making me feel better about myself. Good Luck to everyone. Just remember to try.
I’m glad you’re joining us. And I agree, trying is the most important part. Trying will make progress, and progress is what we are looking for, not perfection.