PRECLUTTERING is KRYPTONITE
Nope, that's not a typo. Precluttering.
If I am speaking the word into existence, in a world with perhaps too many new or confusing words, I promise it is for good reason. Precluttering is kryptonite to the superpower that is decluttering.
I believe we all have superpowers, and one of mine is decluttering. (I am also great at laundry, listening, and loyalty. What are YOUR superpowers? Discover them, share them, enjoy them!)
As I work to develop my decluttering superpower, I try to avoid precluttering. Precluttering is when we accept items (and ideas, but more on that later) without taking time to discern if we truly love them or will use them AND if we have a place for them.
Precluttering is often unconsciously done, so I have had to raise my awareness and develop habits that will protect me (and my purse, my car, my home…) from preclutter.
Preclutter isn't clutter yet. It disguises itself as brochures we are handed, samples we are offered and promotional items we are given. Preclutter is the shopping bag we don't need, the free t-shirt we will never wear, and the item from a relative who doesn't have room for it in her house. Preclutter is junk mail, unnecessary hard copies, and publications we never read (or prefer to access online.)
The most effective way to fight preclutter is to not let it touch you. It's kryptonite; run! 😊 Or, just smile and say no thank you. We are conditioned to take something when it is handed to us. But we can change that. Although "No, thank you" is more than sufficient, you may wish to offer an explanation. "I am paperless", "I will read it online", and "I am downsizing" are clear and simple phrases that, when accompanied by you NOT reaching out to accept the preclutter, are polite and effective.
Of course, there may be items that you do wish to accept; organizations you wish to promote; and people with whom you want to engage. Your enjoyment of those items transforms them. They are not preclutter, though they may become clutter later.
If preclutter is delivered to you, or you accidentally bring some into your space, develop habits that will get it right back out. Here are some of my favorites:
A recycling bin by the door you come in after checking the mailbox
A box cutter close by to break down shipping boxes
A bag for packing peanuts and air pillows that you take to the shipping store when the bag fills
A donation basket in the laundry room, mud room, and/or foyer so you can immediately let go of unwanted items
A small trash can and recycling basket in every room
A rule that everyone checks for preclutter as soon as they exit the vehicle or enter the home/office
As we strive to live an organized life, we must protect ourselves from precluttering. Identify your kryptonite, develop strategies to avoid it, and strengthen your decluttering muscles.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Consultant based out of Louisville, Kentucky. She loves sharing her superpowers with clients while getting to know them and theirs. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a complimentary consultation.
