This is one of the most important things you can do. Clutter distracts you from your target. You may be the best decorator in the whole world and have a house full of delightful objects but for the time being you will need freedom from “stuff” that requires maintenance or gets displaced. This way you can concentrate on getting your business started.

Clutter can also include things you’ve been putting off. Try to get all those out of the way as well. Repair what is torn or broken or get rid of it. Finish up personal appointments. Things that are not clutter are family photos, certain other things that you love and practical things as well. You would not want to get rid of these, of course.

You can de-clutter in layers. The first layer consists of things you can easily part with. The next layer becomes the first layer and so forth until the junk is gone. You’re left with things that actually make you feel good. They should inspire you, fit you and suit you. They should be things that you can use and will use as they help you conduct your life.

Stay organized. This is the time when things can get away from you. Every object should have a home, a place where it is kept exclusively, conveniently and not in the way.

There are several good books on de-cluttering. The Don Aslett books are amusing and to the point. But go to the library or a book store and select the author whose style resonates with you. If you go to the library, reading the book is free and you don’t have to store it later. Library books get you reading; the return policy doesn’t allow you to set it aside for later.