GAPS Guide

Because a manageable life may be key to accomplishing GAPS, here is a tip for clearing clutter.

1. Find a container (a laundry basket, a garbage can, whatever).

2. Put it in a corner.

3. Every time you notice something you don’t need or care about, put the item in the container.

4. When it is full, call a thrift shop and ask them to take the contents away.

The only catch? If others see the contents, they will say, “Oh, I want this…and this…!” So anyone with a family should tuck their container in a private space. (Tip: They probably won’t look inside a garbage can if it has a lid on it!)

You can set up a container for each kid, too –thus you have achieved your goal of getting them helping! You might apply some of the Hallowe’en tricks, eg. Once their bucket is full, pay them $5 (or whatever) so they can get something they actually need or want. This system can replace (rather than add to) an allowance. It also:

• teaches them to recycle,
• imparts that there is value in clear space,
• rewards them for letting go of stuff and redistributing,
• helps them become aware of what does and does not remain of value to them (thus gets them thinking before they shop),
• gets them thinking about commerce,
• etc

May your home be free and clear!