Imagine feeling a sense of inner peace when you walk into your home, instead of immediate anxiety at the sight of overflowing drawers, cupboards and worktops. This is just one of the many benefits of decluttering – a way of life that is set to be an even-bigger home trend in 2024. By reducing the physical clutter in your life, you can also declutter your emotions, and sweep out any lingering negativity. 

Decluttering your entire home or garage may seem like a daunting task, but remember, it’s all about starting small and taking it one step at a time. Here are some tips to get you started on your journey to a clutter-free life: 

Image courtesy of RDNE Stock project. Published on: June 26th, 2021. Source: Pexel.com

Choose a manageable area

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to tackle everything at once. Rather begin with a drawer, a shelf, or a single corner of a room. Maybe you need a shelf or drawer for storage. Focus on clearing that small area completely before moving on. This initial success will motivate you to tackle bigger areas later.

Ask the right question

“As you go through your belongings, ask yourself one key question: “Does this item bring me joy?” If it doesn’t spark joy, thank it for its service and let it go” – Marie Kondo. Another way of looking at things is to ask, do I either love this or use it? If the answer is neither, then the object in question is clutter. For example, if you haven’t worn a piece of clothing in an entire year, then every season has passed and it’s still on its hanger, so it may be time to say goodbye. Simple questions like these can be a powerful tool in helping you declutter effectively and mindfully. Remember, letting go creates space for the things that truly matter. 

Image courtesy of Andrea Piacquadio. Published on: February 22nd, 2020. Source: Pexel.com

Explore different methods:

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to decluttering. Try methods like the popular KonMari method, which focuses on keeping only items that “spark joy,” or the one-touch rule, where you deal with an item immediately upon touching it (sometimes also known as the ‘OHIO’ method, for ‘only handle it once’). Find what works best for you and your personality, so that you can make the entire process enjoyable and sustainable.

Go beyond physical clutter:

Don’t forget about the digital clutter lurking in your inbox, files, and photos. Unsubscribe from email newsletters you never open, organise your digital files, and delete unnecessary photos. A clean digital space contributes to a more tranquil overall environment. Remember, decluttering isn’t just about physical space; it’s about creating a sense of order and calm in all aspects of your life.

Be patient and celebrate progress:

Decluttering is a journey, not a destination. There will be ups and downs along the way. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your achievements – no matter how small – and enjoy the process of gradually creating a space that truly reflects who you are – and where you never lose your keys! Remember, it’s not about achieving perfection; it’s about progress and creating a space that works for you. 

So, take a deep breath, choose a corner, and embark on your decluttering adventure. Remember, you’re not just clearing out physical clutter; you’re creating space you can live, breathe and move in. Embrace the journey, enjoy the process, and witness the transformative power of living with less. As you declutter your surroundings, you might just discover a sense of calm, clarity, and fulfilment you never knew existed. Let go of the things that no longer serve you, and make space for the life you truly desire. 

Plus, you can list items you no longer need on Bob Shop – after all, one person’s clutter can be another person’s treasure. If you manage to turn clutter into cash, you’ll feel even better about the process. Happy decluttering!