What’s Your Magic Number?

© 2005, Pam & Tom Hughes

 

Looking to make a change in the clutter that’s built up around you? There’s an old Chinese saying that goes, “If you want change in your life, move 27 things in your home.” I’m not exactly sure if 27’s the right number for all of us, but it’s a good starting point. So grab an empty box and let’s start tackling the clutter by making a game of it this week.

Day 1 – Grab an empty box and fill it with 9 items that really are in bad shape, broken, old, tattered, non-useful…you get the idea. Now take the box to the trash and dump it in. No fair going back to the trash later! In fact, do this exercise the day before trash day if you feel you might be tempted.

Day 2 – Fill your box with 9 things that you no longer need but that could be used by someone less fortunate. Now take the box to your car and make the “charity run” part of your weekly or monthly routine! It’s easy to build in and only takes a few minutes.

Day 3 – Fill your box with 9 things that are misplaced around the house. Think about where they really belong. If they have a permanent home in your house, take them to that home. If they don’t, take them to the room closest to where you’d use them.

Okay you’ve dealt with 27 things! Not bad so far…Ready for more? Grab some paper.

Day 4 – List 9 “little things” that need fixing around the house and note any supplies or tools that are needed. Estimate how much time each “little thing” might take and multiply by 2. Now schedule those items into your calendar starting next week.

Day 5 – Take your list of 9 “little things” that need fixing and determine if you need to buy any supplies. Make a list and go shopping for them.

Day 6 – Now think about 9 things that you can do to keep the clutter at bay that only take 9 minutes or less to do. Make a list of them and title it “9 Minute Opportunity Knocks”. I’ll talk more about this next week.

Another 27 things handled!

Day 7 – Take today to rest. Thank God for all your blessings. Call or write 9 friends.

“Bite off more than you can chew, then chew it.”

-Ella Williams

Day 4:

“Little things” List - Convert unneeded hall closet to office supply closet.