Smart Ways to Clear Clutter and Streamline Your Life

At least once a week I find 10 things I can donate, give to friends, or throw away. I think better when I am not surrounded by clutter. Our whole family relaxes more when we are not in a pile of toys, newspapers, and magazines. It has taught us all to value a few good things rather than acquiring masses of objects that don't enhance our life.
Megan Shachat, Seattle

No one can really save time, since we all get the same amount every day. However, I have found a way to reduce clutter on my desk at work. I call it the five-minute rule. If I can get it done in five minutes or less, I tend to take care of it then rather than place it in my in-basket to do later. This includes mailing that letter, marking a date, opening a room for someone, answering questions, filing one piece of paper, etc. By getting rid of the little things immediately, I can focus on the bigger projects, and the minute details of my job don't bog me down.
Rebecca San, San Gabriel, California

I reorganized my clothes closet so that all outfits are grouped together. I am not a morning person, and I do not like standing around naked and cold, trying to decide what to wear. I just grab the first outfit on the right side and put it on. At the end of the day, I hang the clothes up on the left side. This way, all my clothes are rotated, so I wear them all and never overwear my favorites.
Susan Shellberg, Tampa

I go from the mailbox to the recycling bin and sort my mail right there—junk goes away immediately. And I give each family member a mesh laundry bag for his or her socks. The socks get washed, dried, and returned in the bag.
Brenda Brassard, Scituate, Massachusetts

I installed a small key cabinet behind the front door. Keys are hung there when we come in and picked up when we go out. I also check the weather reports on Sunday, then set out and iron my entire week's wardrobe. Finally, I get everything ready for the next day the night before and place my briefcase or bag near the front door, ready to go.
Amy O’Donnell, Houston, Texas

I have three children, a husband, a dog, and a full-time job, and I was volunteering to help out with every activity that came forth. I finally realized that my children were happier to have me at home than out doing things that I thought were for their own good. I gave up everything except the once-a-month PTA meeting. My children are much happier knowing that I will kiss them good-night while they are still awake, instead of while they are asleep.
Michelle Corbett, Mississauga, Ontario

Being self-employed as a hairstylist, I decided not to accept any new clients. I found myself taking just one more cut and working until 8:00 or 9:00 p.m. I am now able to go to the kids' practices and make dinner for my husband for a change, and I am able to relax a little more. My family definitely comes first, and it's about time I realized this.
Andrea Arnold, Willows, CA