You may often not even realize how much clutter affects your day-to-day life, the way you interact and engage with others, or how focused you really aren’t. Getting your home in better order may seem like a daunting task—you don’t know where to start, it’s too overwhelming, and there isn’t enough time in the day. But there are ways to get around this and make the task at hand easier than you ever imagined.
Making the decision to purge, declutter, and detoxify your environment is one of the best decisions you’ll make in your life. Once you reap the benefits of a clean, organized, well-functioning home, you’ll ask yourself why you didn’t do this sooner!
You can always start small, with that linen closet, for example. And once you see how this change affects your life, concentration, and overall mood, you’ll want to keep going. Maybe the next task will be your master bedroom, storage area, or basement.
No matter where you begin, there are some tips and tricks you can follow to help you optimize your time and enjoy the process along the way.
Be Accountable
If you’re easily distracted and/or overwhelmed, have someone in your life hold you accountable. Let them know you’re working on cleaning out your closet and want to be done with the task within two days. Ask them to check in or send you some motivation/positive vibes!
Set reminders on your calendar or a timer so that you dedicate and allot enough time to your project.
Remain honest with yourself about what you really need to keep and what should be thrown away or donated. When was the last time you used or wore the item? If you haven’t worn or used it in 6 to 12 months, you can likely dispose of it. Does the item make you feel happy? If your immediate reaction is no, get rid of it.
Come Prepared
- Bins and garbage bags: Create keep, donate, and throw-away piles. Keep track of how many bags you’re donating or giving away. Someone out there can use the items that have been sitting in your closet for years. These items are going to make someone else happy, and that should bring a smile to your face!
- Broom and vacuum cleaner: Cleaning as you go will make the task more rewarding and you’ll more quickly and easily see the progress you’re making.
- Timer and music: Set your timer for 2 hours or even 30 minutes—whatever amount of time you can give to the decluttering process that day. Add in some upbeat music to keep the motivation going!
Stay Focused on One Area at a Time
As you’re purging, stay in one area or room of your home. If you find something in that room that belongs elsewhere, simply put it aside for the time being. Once you’re done with the project for the day, pick those items up and move them to their new homes. This will help keep you from getting distracted during the decluttering process.
Staying focused on one area means you’ll see progress, which is very motivating. If you move from room to room, you’re more likely to leave the original project/goal unfinished.
Old and unused items, disarray, and general disorganization can be toxic to the energy of your home and how you function every day. Follow these tips and tricks to start immediately reaping the benefits of a more organized home and life. You won’t believe how much lighter and happier you’ll feel.
Chelsie Kirk is a home organizer with a passion for minimizing clutter and creating beautiful spaces that bring joy to your life. She can be reached at: chelsie@cchomeorganization.com or by phone at 860.510.1431.