Yes or no piles
Start by separating the things you patently do not need from the things you do. That can be hard after months or years in one spot. The original article cited Julia Pinsky of the Pinsky Project, who after a decade and a half in New York City started a business based on decluttering. The article said decluttering helps improve focus, as less stuff means fewer things taking attention away from work or relationships, and that Julia was available for consultation — that was the original published note, not a current endorsement check.
Visualise, make time, four boxes
Picture what you want your new space to look like. The original article cited Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist recommending a friend so someone can cast a fresh eye. Designate a day or two. Go from the most obvious to the more contentious. Label four boxes: Rubbish, Relocate, Keep, and Donate. Every item you pick up should go into one of these. Ask: what do you really need? What can you do without? More on letting go: 4 common moving mistakes. If you are moving, get a free quote.