Between a Guac and a Hard Place

Do you often find yourself drowning in a sea of stuff, with clutter piling up like Mount Everest? Fear not! Decluttering your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. In fact, it can be downright liberating. By clearing out the physical clutter, you’ll also clear space in your mind, allowing for more peace and clarity in your life. So grab a trash bag and let’s dive into these 10 simple ways to declutter your home and clear your mind!

1. Start Small, Start Now: Tackling your entire home in one go can feel overwhelming. Instead, start with a small area like your desk or a single drawer. Once you experience the satisfaction of decluttering a small space, you’ll be motivated to tackle larger areas.

Begin with your bedside table. Clear off any items that don’t belong there, like old receipts or random knick-knacks. Leave only the essentials, like a lamp and a good book.

2. The Three-Box Method: Grab three boxes or bins and label them “Keep,” “Donate/Sell,” and “Trash.” As you go through each item in a room, place it in one of the boxes. This method streamlines the decision-making process and helps you let go of items you no longer need.

Take on your closet with the three-box method. Donate clothes that no longer fit or that you haven’t worn in over a year. Trash any damaged items, and keep only the pieces that bring you joy and make you feel fabulous.

3. One In, One Out Rule: For every new item you bring into your home, commit to removing one item. This simple rule prevents clutter from accumulating and encourages mindful consumption.

Treat yourself to a new pair of shoes? Great! But before you welcome them into your closet, say goodbye to an old pair that you no longer wear.

4. Create Designated Spaces: Assign specific places for commonly used items to prevent clutter from spreading like wildfire. Whether it’s a designated spot for keys by the door or a basket for mail, having designated spaces ensures everything has a home.

Hang hooks by the entryway for keys and jackets. Install shelves or bins for shoes to keep them from cluttering the floor.

5. Digital Decluttering: Don’t forget to declutter your digital space too! Delete old files, unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, and organize your desktop and digital folders for a clutter-free digital life.

Take a digital detox by unfollowing accounts on social media that no longer inspire or bring you joy. Clear out your email inbox by unsubscribing from newsletters you never read.

6. Let Go of Sentimental Clutter: Sentimental items can be the hardest to let go of, but holding onto too many can weigh you down. Keep only the items that truly hold special meaning and let go of the rest.

Instead of keeping every birthday card you’ve ever received, select a few meaningful ones to keep and recycle the rest.

7. Set a Timer: Feeling overwhelmed? Set a timer for 15-30 minutes and focus on decluttering one area during that time. You’ll be amazed at how much you can accomplish when you’re working against the clock.

Challenge yourself to declutter your kitchen countertops in 20 minutes. Clear off any appliances or utensils that you don’t use daily and wipe down the surface for a fresh start.

8. Practice the 20/20 Rule: If you can replace an item for less than $20 and in less than 20 minutes, consider letting it go. This rule helps prevent holding onto items “just in case” and encourages a minimalist mindset.

Do you have a collection of mismatched Tupperware taking over your cabinets? If you can easily replace them with a new set, consider decluttering the ones without lids or bottoms.

9. Rotate Seasonal Items: Store seasonal items like holiday decorations or winter clothes in labeled bins. When the season changes, rotate these items out to free up space and keep your home feeling fresh.

Pack away your bulky winter coats and sweaters in storage bins when spring arrives. This not only declutters your closet but also makes room for lightweight spring attire.

10. Practice Gratitude: As you declutter, take a moment to express gratitude for the items you’re letting go of and the space they’re creating in your life. This shift in mindset can turn decluttering into a joyful experience.

Before donating a bag of clothes, take a moment to thank each item for its service and the memories it holds. Acknowledge that by letting go, you’re creating space for new experiences and opportunities.

By implementing these simple decluttering strategies, you’ll not only transform your home into a clutter-free oasis but also clear space in your mind for more joy and creativity. So go ahead, grab that trash bag, and start decluttering your way to a lighter, brighter, and more organized life!