But do you LOVE it?

There are certain undeniable truths in life and “decluttering is hard” is certainly one of them. Even if you’re excited about clearing the space or what the end result will be the process can be tedious at best and tearful at worse.

To ease the process with a taste of success, I always suggest that you start with the low hanging fruit of getting rid of trash. It’s usually easy to spot and there isn’t as much emotional attachment to it due to its unappealing nature. Once you’ve cleared a little detritus it’s easier to focus on what remains.

These are the interview questions you should ask yourself about everything in your home.

The question order doesn’t matter until you get to the last one.

• Does it fit (you or in your house)?

• Do you have a place for it?

• Do you already own this item?

• Would you buy this item again?

• Do you use it now?

• Does it serve a function or purpose?

• Does it work?

• Is it broken?

• Do you love it?

The final question of “Do you love it?” can be a loaded one but remember this: your home should be filled with whatever you love and holds meaning for you. Even if it’s oddly shaped or terribly out of fashion, if you love it then you should keep it. If it’s meaningful to you, then it should have a place in your home. Your home should be a reflection of who you are and what you value.

If you don’t love it and it doesn’t serve a purpose in your life don’t keep it.

It doesn’t matter if your Great Aunty Gertrude gave it to you. If it’s not meaningful, or worse, elicits negative feelings, out it goes.

You are not obligated to keep things forever that you do not love. You have permission to pass it on to someone else or dispose of it.

But don’t take my word for it. William Morris said:

  “If you want a golden rule that will fit everything, this is it: Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”