How to Not Be a Clutter-Bug & Pack-Rat

Make a list of places in your home you want to de-clutter such as a messy closet, desk or a cluttered room.

Rank the items to determine which is the most troubling to you. Tackle this problem first and ignore all others until you fix this area.

Gather the items in the cluttered area and place them on the floor.

Organize the items into sections, namely items you want to throw away, give away and keep. Throw away items that will be of no use to anyone, this includes broken or contaminated objects. Give away old magazines, newspapers or clothes that don't fit anymore. Ask yourself whether you will realistically use the item in the next five years. If not, give it away. Sort the rest of the items in the 'keep' pile. Be certain you will use these items in the next five years.

Immediately throw the garbage pile away, put the giveaway pile into a box and directly into your car to donate to a thrift store or charity. Organize the remaining items in the space intended for them.

Repeat the process with the rest of the cluttered areas in your home.

Perform this task every few months to ensure your home doesn't become covered in clutter. Continue evaluating each item you decide to keep to determine if you are realistically going to use it.

Evaluate items before purchasing them. Ask yourself if you can borrow the item from someone rather than buying it. Ask if you already have a similar piece or if the item will actually contribute to your life. Determine where you will store the item and why you need it.