Move on to a better you
Most people hate the thought of moving — ugh! Items accumulated over years make moving seem an almost impossible and treacherous task. On the positive side, this is the time to take control and stock of what you have and need.
When moving, the adage “out with the old, in with the new” is appropriate, as everyone is looking for a fresh, clean start. Believe it or not, your surroundings have a profound impact on your outlook and performance. Much like a spring-cleaning or a fall dusting, organizing your surroundings gives your life a sense of calm and perspective.
To start this healing process, all you need to do is choose one room. Do not attempt to organize the whole house at once. Focusing your attention on one room or area at a time will make your goal feel attainable.
Hold off on hanging any art or items on your walls, and select a new wall color. New color is the best and easiest way to visually refresh and “cleanse” your environment. Select a color that is distinctly different from what is already there, and make sure it is a soothing shade that relaxes you.
When it is time to hang your artwork, engage the help of a family member or friend who could act as a design partner, and discuss your plans for where you want to hang things. Their perspective, which often will be different from yours, could guide you in a new direction. This is almost a fail-proof way to achieve a new feel for your room.
Assess your current furniture layout and rearrange accordingly.
Seek out the essentials of your room, and ask yourself the question: “If I lost that piece of furniture, would the room function? Would the room be less comfortable?” Being honest with yourself about your needs is critical in turning out a successful simplified design. Throughout this process, keep reminding yourself, like a mantra, that the goal is to simplify and organize for a more streamlined future.
Bins and boxes are invaluable for storage and organization. Invest in a goof-proof labeling system; it will benefit the organizational aspect of this type of project. Keeping things organized and labeled will help you sort through all of your possessions and determine the keepers. Honestly, do you need to keep the entire collection of teen magazines or the stuffed animal your first sweetheart gave you? Probably not — and this is a perfect opportunity to toss those things, sell them through an online portal or, better yet, donate them to a charity.
Planning ahead to make room for future projects and items that require storage is extremely rewarding and helps clear the mind.
Finally, make it beautiful. Your surroundings most definitely affect your state of mind. If you want a simpler, fresher feel to your home, make a plan, and move on to a better you.
• Joseph Pubillones is the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors, an award-winning interior design firm based in Palm Beach, Fla.
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