What Is It?
The 90/90 rule is a straightforward decluttering technique. It involves questioning whether you've used an item in the last 90 days. If not, and if you don't
anticipate using it in the next 90 days, it's time to let it go. This rule encourages a critical assessment of your belongings, helping you determine which items are truly essential and which ones are simply taking up space. The goal is to make informed decisions about what to keep and what to donate or discard, streamlining your living space and reducing clutter. This is especially useful during periods of deep cleaning such as Diwali.
Why Does It Work?
The effectiveness of the 90/90 rule lies in its simplicity and practicality. It provides a clear, objective criterion for deciding what to keep. Instead of being overwhelmed by sentimentality or indecision, you have a concrete guideline. This straightforward approach helps overcome the emotional barriers often associated with decluttering. By focusing on recent and future usage, the rule cuts through the clutter. It helps prevent you from holding onto items out of habit or the fear of needing them someday. It promotes a minimalist mindset, reducing the amount of stuff in your home. This makes cleaning easier, and creating a more organized and functional living environment.
How To Apply?
To apply the 90/90 rule, start by selecting an area of your home. Go through your belongings in that area. Ask yourself when the last time you used an item was. Then, consider if you will need it in the next 90 days. If the answer to either question is no, it's time to get rid of it. Be honest with yourself during this process. Place items that meet the criteria into categories. These might include donations, items for sale, or things that need to be thrown away. Once you've sorted everything, properly dispose of or donate the items. As you go through your house, use the rule to keep the process moving forward.
Difficult to Let Go?
It's natural to feel attached to belongings, but the 90/90 rule offers ways to manage this. If you have trouble parting with something, ask yourself why. Are you holding onto it for sentimental reasons? Or is it just a habit? Taking photos of items you are struggling to let go of can help. This allows you to retain a memory of them. If you think you might need an item someday, try borrowing or renting one if the need arises. Focus on the benefits of decluttering. Consider the extra space and peace of mind a less cluttered home offers. Ultimately, the goal is to create a living space that supports your current lifestyle and values.
What To Do?
Once you’ve identified items to remove, decide on your course of action. Donate gently used items to local charities or shelters. Sell valuable items online or at consignment shops. For items that are no longer usable, ensure they are recycled properly. Organize a garage sale. When you are getting rid of items, it can also be an opportunity to give them to someone. This can involve friends, family, or those in need. Decluttering is not just about getting rid of things. It is about creating space for what truly matters, like your Diwali celebrations. This includes spending time with loved ones, and making new memories.
The Diwali Advantage
Diwali cleaning presents the perfect opportunity to embrace the 90/90 rule. During this time, you're already focused on making your home look its best. This makes it easier to adopt a decluttering mindset. You can focus on areas like storage rooms, closets, and shelves. Go through each area, applying the 90/90 rule. By decluttering before decorating, you can maximize space. You can make your home feel more open and welcoming for the festive season. This can also reduce the stress of cleaning. It is all about making the process more manageable and enjoyable. The 90/90 rule helps simplify the preparation. It lets you enjoy the traditions and celebrations of Diwali.
