What's Happening?
The 90/90 rule, a decluttering strategy developed by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus of The Minimalists, was successfully applied to declutter a closet in approximately one hour. This rule asks two key questions for each item: 'Have you used
this in the past 90 days?' and 'Will you use it in the next 90 days?' If the answer to both is no, the item is to be discarded, with exceptions for seasonal or holiday-specific items. The individual and their partner went through every item of clothing, including those in drawers and on shelves, trying on anything that might fit and discarding items like torn belts, unworn dress shoes, and shirts with missing buttons. This process resulted in two large trash bags full of clothes designated for donation, creating a significant amount of free space in the closet. The success of this method was so pronounced that it was later applied to declutter a smartphone by removing unused apps and games.
Why It's Important?
This decluttering method is significant because it provides a clear, objective framework for making decisions about possessions, thereby reducing the emotional and time-consuming aspects often associated with organizing. Many individuals struggle with decluttering due to sentimental attachments, the perceived value of items, or the hope of future use. The 90/90 rule bypasses these common hurdles by focusing strictly on recent and projected utility. This objective approach helps individuals overcome procrastination and decision fatigue, leading to quicker and more effective results. The ability to rapidly clear out unused items not only creates physical space but also contributes to mental clarity and reduces daily stress associated with cluttered environments. For consumers, this method encourages a more mindful approach to purchasing and retaining items, potentially leading to less impulsive buying and a greater appreciation for what they truly use and need.
What's Next?
Given the reported success of the 90/90 rule in decluttering a closet and a smartphone, it is anticipated that this method will be applied to other areas of the home and personal life. The individual who tested the rule plans to use it to declutter the rest of their house in the coming weeks, suggesting its versatility and broad applicability. The simplicity and effectiveness of the 90/90 rule could lead to its wider adoption among individuals seeking practical and efficient decluttering solutions. As more people experience the benefits of this straightforward approach, it may contribute to a growing trend towards minimalism and intentional living, influencing how individuals manage their possessions and digital lives. The rule's emphasis on recent and future use could also encourage a more conscious consumption pattern, where items are acquired with a clearer understanding of their immediate and ongoing utility.
Beyond the Headlines
The 90/90 rule offers a deeper insight into the psychological impact of clutter and the societal pressures of consumerism. By encouraging individuals to part with items they haven't used and don't foresee using, it challenges the ingrained habit of holding onto possessions 'just in case.' This method implicitly promotes a shift from a scarcity mindset, where items are hoarded, to an abundance mindset, where only truly useful or joyful items are retained. The application of this rule to digital clutter, such as smartphone apps, highlights the pervasive nature of accumulation in modern life, extending beyond physical objects. This suggests a broader cultural movement towards digital minimalism, where individuals seek to optimize their digital environments for efficiency and reduced distraction. Ultimately, the 90/90 rule can foster a greater sense of control over one's environment, both physical and digital, leading to enhanced well-being and a more intentional lifestyle.
