One of the biggest challenges to
decluttering is knowing where to begin. Let these 6 tips help you get started.If you are facing a whole-house declutter, it can be overwhelming. The advice to “just pick something and start” is not bad, and it is better than nothing.
However, if you just jump in anywhere
and start, you may find yourself coming back to the same area again.
Or you may find you are decluttering separate areas, but because you
can have the same item in multiple locations throughout your home,
you may still have clutter.
Where Do You Begin?
- Do not begin with anything sentimental. These are the hardest items to choose to release, and you need to save them for later, after your declutter “muscles” are better developed.
- Do not begin with any area that has an overwhelming amount of items in it. If you have 300 pair of shoes, that is not the best place to start. If your closet is packed, or your bookshelves are groaning with books, that may be too much to start with. Pick a smaller area.
- Do not try to tackle a large space. Instead, break it down. If you decide to begin with your kitchen, consider choosing one cabinet or your pantry for your first declutter session. Then plan a time to do another section.
- Don't wait until everything is “perfect” to begin. Yes, you'll need trash bags and boxes to sort out the trash and get rid of items, but don't think you have to have the perfect storage solution in place for the remaining items. Work with what you have to get started. You WILL find excuses not to begin, so pick a day and a time, write it on your calendar and begin.
- If you have a partner, do not begin with areas that are used by both of you, especially if they are resistant to decluttering. Pick and area that is yours.
- Add in things that make you happy: music that energizes you, a favorite beverage to sip on, a small snack to keep you going. Make the experience more pleasant so you don't dread getting started.
The thought of decluttering can be
overwhelming, especially if you need to go through your entire house.
Don't let that thought stop you. Use the tips that help you decide
where to start and then just BEGIN.
Want more tips to declutter your home? Declutter One Small Space: Avoid Overwhelm While Creating Space is out!
Step-by-step instructions help you to choose one small area, gather the supplies you need, and get it decluttered. Practical and empowering tips help you sort and purge effectively so you keep what you want and need and get rid of what no longer fits your life.
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