Customer Reviews

De-Clutter, De-Stress Your Life

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

As a busy mother of two, I find there is no time to relax and enjoy life. This book is about simplicity and the freedom you can gain from it. It's about paring down "things" and stop worrying about "things". It's step by step is easy to follow and you soon realize how much time you were wasting on the clutter in your house. Nothing makes me happier than walking into rooms once filled with old junk, drawers that wouldn't close because of old paperwork, or closets that I couldn't sqeeze another shirt into and seeing an organized, easy to live-in space. It definitely helps lower stress levels.

OK, I'd rather read about de-cluttering than actually do the work. But this is one book that inspired me to stop thinking and start DOING. Helen starts with her own story, guides us gently (but firmly) to confront the whys and wherefores, and get us moving - in an enjoyable, non-threatening, effective way. I thought that throwing things out made me wasteful - but hoarding when others are needy is far worse. Now, five words I never thought I'd say: you should see my kitchen!

I like to use this book with some of my clients, because of the integral worksheets, and the step-by-step problem solving. Its nice having the questions & the answers all in one place, so they're less likely to be lost.

Helen's breezy, upbeat style makes for an uplifting read, which can be helpful to clients who are feeling overwhelmed by their stuff.

Helen's book is succinct, offers clear guidelines describing how to get started with the decluttering process, and explores reasons that keep people stuck. The exercises keep you focussed on the project at hand, and decluttering is broken down into small steps so that it's less overwhelming.

There are a number of books that focus on how to de-clutter and become more organized. Some books address the psychological aspects of de-cluttering but they offer little in the way of helpful strategies.

Helen Volk's book offers the reader more than just helpful advice. Her book serves as a partner and coaches you through the de-cluttering process. She uses humor, support and practical
guidance in order to help you to make progress in your de-cluttering efforts. If you're unable to attend her wonderful groups and workshops you can certainly benefit from this book and gain some valuable tools that are culled from her expertise and personal experience. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn how to let go of "stuff" that no longer serves you and experience greater peace of mind and a more organized physical environment.

Debra Gugig-Bauer, CRC, CASAC
President,

CATALYSTS FOR CHANGE
COUNSELING AND TRAINING ASSOCIATES