Clutter Give Aways

How many times have you received a free gift with purchase? There is a bit of a high we feel when we are given things for free! Almost like we are beating the system, whatever that system may be. Whether it is at the department store makeup counter, Costco, a trade show or a store coupon – we take anything that is given away. Never do we think “do I need this”, we just take it!

I have found many “freebies” when working with my organizing clients. Free hotel shampoos/soaps/lotions, t-shirts, makeup bags, duffel bags, coffee cups, pens, pads of paper – these items are stowed in drawers, closets and cabinets. They think they may use these some day, or maybe will give the items away to people they know. But still, they sit and are not touched for months and years. What is the cost of “free clutter”?

You have the ability to say no to your free gifts with purchase. Unless you know you will use these items in the next 3 months, you have someone you will give it to immediately, or you will donate it to a charity, just say no! Resist the urge to receive more clutter in your life!

You homework today is to go on a scavenger hunt to see how many freebie items you have tucked away and don’t use. Let’s see who has the most! Leave your results in the comments!