Here at CMFTO, we like a good turn of phrase. So, to paraphrase Shakespeare a little bit more: “Out, Out, Damned Clutter!”
It happens every time. Our belongings seem to outgrow our living space, and so we inevitably turn to that easiest of solutions: external storage. But why do we do this? Is it because we are afraid of letting go of the memories represented by Aunt Hilda’s dinnerware? Or is it because we’re too busy (or too tired, or too overwhelmed) to sit down and go through the 19 boxes of holiday paraphernalia we have accumulated over the years?
Self-storage has become an easy solution to a chronic problem. But, it’s little more than a temporary fix for a bigger issue.
With a plethora of storage solutions cropping up nearly every day, and services ranging from pod delivery to free truck rentals for move-ins, it’s no wonder that we are opting for buying more space, rather than taking the time to pare down. That is, until we have to.
Over decades, we have worked with a wide range of clients, all experiencing the same problem: Too much “stuff.” But storing it is not the solution, unless two things are true:
For item #1, think of wine collections, work-related materials, and antique furniture. Of course, the type of storage then matters immensely, as sensitive collections need specialized storage. Item #2 applies mainly to people who are in transition. For example, if you are moving into a rental unit while your house is under construction, etc.
Otherwise, storage is not a healthy personal solution to too much clutter, or “stuff.” So, how do we address the remaining items in our lives that don’t fit into the two aforementioned categories?
Luckily, we have a step-by-step Decluttering Made Easy™ plan and process that completely eliminates the need for off-site self-storage, that includes:
External storage can be an excellent solution for overflow, when the overflow has already been carefully considered and culled down to essential pieces. However, if a storage solution is being used to avoid dealing with the problem, then it’s not a solution – it’s part of the problem.
To learn more about how CMFTO™ can help you address your overabundance and storage needs, please visit us online and/or make an appointment for a free consultation. We look forward to hearing from you.
All my best,
Claudia