Stuffology 101

February 9, 2015
Self-proclaimed “stuffologists” Avadian and Riddle have spent a lifetime dealing with hoarding’s little sister, “STUFFitis,” the plague of accumulated clutter “diverting us from our life’s purpose and what we deserve.” Using their combined knowledge, they provide tips on de-cluttering your physical space, hard drive, and even your frenzied mind. On the digital front, they recommend organizing files into folders by content and date for easy access. As for the tangible, the authors suggest devoting manageable blocks of time for sorting through the debris, concentrating on one project at a time, and assigning one location for all of your paperwork and incoming mail. Further, one can “overcome the force of ownership” by assessing an object’s importance versus the value of a clutter-free space. Avadian and Riddle prove sympathetic guides, revealing personal stories about a soup spoon representing fond memories of Avadian’s mother and the sci-fi toys that made up Riddle’s prized collection. To demonstrate de-cluttering’s benefits, Avadian recalls cleaning out her father’s home and finding $28,000 in savings bonds—and the ability to “feel the flow of life once more.” Though there’s nothing particularly groundbreaking here, anyone suffering from CHAOS (can’t have anybody over syndrome) may find this guide a step in the right direction.