Ready, Set, Declutter!

I have a lot to say on the topics of organization and decluttering. Little known fact, I actually started and still operate an organizing business (if you’ve been to my house before, this may surprise you). My inspiration has come from many organizational experts over the years, because I have studied so many methods over the years. The reason I’ve studied from so many experts is because my natural tendencies, if I am not vigilant, are to be dysfunctional, disorganized, and cluttered. If you’ve been to my house, you’ve seen this. There was a time where I had everything perfectly organized and—it stayed that way! But that has not always been the case. Living an organized and clutter free life is just like anything else in life. It takes time, effort, and intentionality. I could go on and on about the reasons we struggle with clutter and organization, and I will in future blogs, but for now I’ll focus on some quick mindset tips to get you started if you are setting out to make changes and get your home into your ideal organization.

Just Do It
I know that might sound trite. But really, just start, right now (or right after you finish reading this). You don’t need to wait for the perfect day or time to start. You don’t have to clear an enormous block of time to do all the work at one time. If you have the time to block out and you want to, go for it, but most of us don’t, so don’t wait for it. If all you have is 5 minutes, use it. You’ll be surprised at what you can accomplish.

Pick an Easy Win
One of my favorite experts is Dana K. White, her book Decluttering at the Speed of Life, is a game changer. I highly recommend it. (I am not sponsored by or affiliated with her, I’m just a huge fan.) Dana has a simple set of steps to get you started and keep you going. The first thing is to start with the most easy and basic thing to declutter—trash. So really, once you’re done reading this blog, get started. Pick one spot to work in, grab a trash bag and throw away any obvious trash. There’s no pressure with this, no decisions to make, just toss the trash.

Declutter the “Right Things”
The first thing I want you to get rid of is—the guilt. That’s right, let go of the guilt, all of it. Guilt for throwing something away, guilt for keeping something, guilt for struggling with clutter in the first place. Take all of that guilt and throw it away! There are so many theories and approaches to decluttering, I will write more about specific tips in the future. For now, I’ll just say, I think the best way to frame it for yourself is not to focus on getting rid of things, instead focus on keeping the things you love. You only have so much space to keep things, you only have so much time to use things, so only keep the things that you love.

Get Accountability
Tell a friend or your family that you are starting the process of getting organized. Tell someone who is always ready to support you. Be clear with them if you want help, or just moral support and encouragement. For me personally, I plan on doing my next closet decluttering session with my almost 5-year-old daughter. I’m excited to have her with me for the moral support, and so that I can set an example for her of how to let go of things and make decluttering a normal part of life.

Give Yourself Grace
Getting organized and clutter free will not happen overnight. Your journey is yours alone, so don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Take steps forward every day, no matter how small, just keep going. If you make small strides forwards each day, that’s progress and you’re on the right track. Keep up with the daily things like dishes and laundry, if nothing else. You can do it! Celebrate those wins.