How to Set Goals With the Four Box Method

Modern life is full of clutter and getting rid of it can be a daunting task. Indeed, USA Today reports that Americans generate more than four pounds of trash every day. Clutter is a symptom of sentimental attachment, poor habits or poor organization. Each item represents a delayed decision. The decision to tackle your household clutter requires the resolution to steadily work through it with a specific strategy for clearing out superfluous items. The four-box method is a technique that helps you set goals in your quest for a clutter-free life.

4 boxes

Instructions

- 1
  Get four boxes big enough to contain the clutter. Label the boxes "Put Away," "Donate/Sell," "Storage" and "Garbage." The "Put Away" box is for items that form part of your life goals. Use the "Donate/Sell" box for items you think you can sell or that someone else can use. The "Storage" box is for items that have a long-term use or have sentimental value. Put items you want to throw away in the "Garbage" box.
- 2
  Take the boxes to the cluttered room or area. Pick up one item of clutter at a time. Decide which box you want to put the item in. Don't put the item in a box until you have made a definite decision.
- 3
  Spend 15 to 20 minutes emptying the boxes. Take the "Put Away" items to an appropriate place. Store the "Donate/Sell" items where you can access them. If you plan to donate them, put them in the trunk of your car. Keep an inventory of the contents of the "Storage" box and take it to your storage area. Empty the "Garbage" box quickly and don't search through it to retrieve items.

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