If you stay in the same home for a long time, things accumulate. Because I’ve moved so often over the years, I’m in the habit of shedding unnecessary items and being cautious about what I chose to keep. For those who are more settled, it’s easy to get into the habit of accumulating items without letting go what’s already there.
Nothing inspires aggressive pruning like packing up a house, but here’s a more sustainable suggestion of how to encourage regular decluttering: be a host.
When I travel to visit friends, they tell me that they have straightened up the house for my arrival. I’ve also helped clients organize their homes in preparation for an overnight visitor. Friends and clients also report that cleaning up for their guest has a lingering impact. The house stays more organized even after the dinner is over, or the guest leaves. With less mess around, it’s even easier to straighten up in preparation for the next guest.