The Magic of Reality-Based Cleaning

I begin today’s episode – deep in the darkest moments of winter -- with an essay I wrote called “For Every Woman Who Doesn’t Have Time to Go to the Bathroom.” If that’s you stop running and take a listen. I think you’re going to find this very empowering! Also big in winter is the urge to hunker down, nest, and get rid of things. I don’t know about you, but when it comes to feeling like I have too much stuff, I’m a pitcher. I just love to dig in and throw it all out. It just feels so refreshing to have all that sparkling clean, empty space where there once was clutter. That’s why I invited decluttering and ‘reality based cleaning’ expert Dana K White to join me in today’s episode. Her approach is refreshingly real and quite funny. Here’s what I learned: How a busy cleaning-avoidant got comfortable with decluttering to become an expert Where do you start decluttering for maximum efficiency? The secret power of decluttering The common mistake many organizers make in this process An easy test for how to know whether to pitch something or not What’s your ‘clutter threshold’ and why it matters Why we hang on to too much stuff  Her secret weapon – the ‘Container Concept’ I think you’re going to find our chat inspiring … I did! I’ve got the cleared-out space to prove it! RESOURCES Suzanne’s Self-Care for Extremely Busy Women online course … on sale! Decluttering at the Speed of Life: Winning Your Never-Ending Battle with Stuff MORE ABOUT DANA Dana K. White is a blogger, podcaster, speaker, and (much to her own surprise) a Decluttering Expert. She is host of ‘A Slob Comes Clean’ podcast. In an attempt to get her home under control, Dana started blogging as "Nony" (short for anonymous) at A Slob Comes Clean. Dana soon realized she was not alone in her housekeeping struggles and in her feelings of shame. Today, Dana shares realistic home management strategies and a message of hope for the hopelessly messy through her blog, weekly podcasts and videos. Dana lives with her husband and three kids just outside of Dallas, Texas.