REDUCE THE CLUTTER IN YOUR LIFE

Let's face it, we all have too much stuff. This is part of the reason we all seem to think we need bigger houses! But do we really need all that stuff? To simplify, ask yourself this question every time you pick something up - "do I love it; do I need it"? If you can't answer yes to either, get rid of it.

It really can be as simple as that as you go at your first drawer, then the closet, then the garage, then the basement...

Keeping only what you truly need and love in the kitchen is a great place to start. There are no doubt some relics in yours like that awful mug a co-worker gave you or the mis-matched dishes set that is all chipped. Unless you use these things often, you really don't need them and you can't tell me you love them. Take cue from this perfectly organized kitchen cupboard that seems to have everything you would really need - just the right amount of glasses, dishes, mixing bowls and prep bowls. Why have more?

Everyone has an area they call their office these days. Whether it is the corner of your dining room table where you put your laptop computer; or a full room dedicated to all your personal and/or business needs. This is an area that often gets neglected because of all the paperwork, paperclips, pens... This little office in a cupboard is a great solution! It contains your stuff so you can't grow 'more stuff'. It really makes you consider only the things you truly need (or love, like those little blue vases).

Your clothing cupboard can no doubt use an overhaul too. This cupboard shows a very minimalist wardrobe, but I bet if you took everything out of your closet and only put back what you wear regularly, yours would look like this too. If not, it's time to re-think the amount of black pants you have, or how many sweaters you need in the same colour. Choose the ones that make you feel best when you wear them, and only those. Getting dressed in the morning will be so simple once you only have stuff you really truly love.

Your linen closet should only have what you use. How many extra towels do you really need for guests or cleaning up? And if you have changed your colour scheme, get rid of the old towels you know will now clash in the new space. As for sheets, keeping your two favourite for each bed is best - give the rest away.

Lastly, don't forget the big jobs like your basement storage and garage. These places tend to have your cast-offs. It should be pretty easy to rid yourself of the things in those places, but because you don't see it it is forgotten. So get to that when you have a chance and find the easiest way you can rid yourself of the things that can truly clutter your mind when you see them.

To summarize simply - Only keep what you need. Your life will truly feel richer.