The "One In, One Out Rule"

   One of the ways that I prevent myself from acquiring too many belongings is by using the “One In, One Out Rule.” The rule dictates that for every item you incorporate into your home (whether it’s a purchase, a gift, or a found object), you must eliminate something you already own. Ideally the item should be replacing something of a similar category, because that helps best with preventing cluttered areas. However, as long as an equal number of items are leaving the house as are being brought in, it is still helping to maintain a balance. It’s creating an environment where you are surrounded by items you use, enjoy, or have newness to you.

    I have found this rule particularly helpful with clothing closets. It keeps the closet from becoming over-stuffed, and it forces me to be more mindful of what I’m purchasing. If I like all the clothes I already own, it will be tough to decide what I want to give up. It’s also a good way to ensure that my closet is full of clothes I am actively enjoying, because the easy sacrifice is to get rid of a blouse that I haven’t worn in years.

    If you’d like to try putting this rule into practice, remember that the key is to hold yourself accountable for it--even as you're out shopping. As you shop for anything new, remember that something at home has to be given up in exchange. It will make you think more consciously about your spending habits. Also, it can be helpful with finally addressing some of the gifts and heirlooms that you've been holding onto without a plan (a topic discussed in the March 14th post). if you receive a gift and it's something you don't see yourself using or displaying, you will feel more motivated to assess whether it's worth keeping if it's just taking up space in the house that could be for the new, more useful item you want to buy. The exception for me is groceries, because I am mindful about only buying what’s needed, and it’s consumable and will disappear. This rule is more intended for the items that will be incorporated into what you own for the foreseeable future.