By Pat Allin

William Morris was born into the clutter of Victorian England. He was a student of architecture, a designer of fabrics and wallpapers still popular today, and an ardent proponent of a return to simpler times. Because we did not learn Morris's lesson the first time, we must learn it again. In this age of consumerism, things we do not love or believe to be useful are everywhere in our homes.

Your home is a reflection of your self. When your home is in turmoil or loaded with things you don't like or need, your life is probably in turmoil, too. De-cluttering your house might not end the turmoil in your life, but it will make you feel more relaxed and in control of your life. I used to laugh at myself and say, "Okay, now my house is straight, my life will be straight."

Getting rid of clutter doesn't mean giving up the things you love. Your home will be most pleasing when you surround yourself with the things you really care for, the things that tell your story.

There is a deep connection between your environment and your inner self. Feng shui teaches that a home both reflects and affects your physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Clutter is a symptom and a cause of stuck energy.

Here are some ways to start clearing the clutter from your life. Start with your kitchen. It is the heart of the home-a place where we both provide and receive nourishment. A messy kitchen makes this difficult. Get rid of old dishes or pots and pans you never use. Are you really using all those cookbooks? Replace those old dish towels and scorched pot holders. But, keep what's really useful.

Don't try to do everything at once; you will be overwhelmed. Take it one room at a time. If you clear one room in a day, make sure you relax the next.

Start to envision your new space. Would painting the walls and ceiling give the room a fresher look? Perhaps that tired sofa should be replaced. How about improving the lighting?

Start a binder with sections for each room you want to improve. Have places for paint chips, magazine clips, ideas and progress notes.

Set reasonable goals for yourself: "Paint walls and ceilings by end of summer." "Tear out and replace carpet by the end of September."

So, get going. Act on your plans. And, don't forget to take the time to see what you have accomplished.

Always keep this in mind: surrounding yourself with things you believe to be beautiful contributes to your quality of life and sense of well-being. It also lets people know who you are.

Published in The Monitor, Montrose, CO. Copyright © 2005 by Pat Allin