Declutter Your Life: Easy Steps for a Calmer Home
Hello, beautiful souls!
Decluttering is one of my absolute obsessions because it feels so incredibly good. There’s something liberating about clearing out the old and making space for the new. I’m all about tossing anything broken or damaged, but I also make a point to donate as much as possible. I go through this process a few times a year, and it always leaves me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
Here are some easy steps to help you declutter your life and create a calmer, more joyful home.
1. Start Small
Begin with a small area, like a drawer or a single shelf. This makes the task less overwhelming and allows you to see progress quickly. Success in these small spaces can motivate you to tackle larger areas.
2. Sort Into Piles
As you go through your items, create three piles: keep, donate, and toss. Be honest with yourself about what you really use and love. If it’s broken or damaged beyond repair, let it go. If it’s in good condition but no longer serves you, consider donating it.
3. Set a Timer
Give yourself a set amount of time to declutter each day—15 to 30 minutes is a great start. This keeps the task manageable and prevents burnout. You’d be surprised how much you can accomplish in a short, focused session.
4. Use the One-Year Rule
If you haven’t used or worn an item in the past year, it’s probably safe to say you can let it go. This rule helps you eliminate items that are just taking up space without adding value to your life.
5. Create a Donation Station
Set up a designated area in your home for items you plan to donate. As you come across things you no longer need, add them to this spot. Once it’s full, make a trip to your local donation center.
6. Declutter by Category
Instead of tackling an entire room at once, focus on specific categories like clothes, books, or kitchen items. This method, inspired by the KonMari approach, helps you stay organized and thorough.
7. Digitize Paperwork
Reduce paper clutter by scanning important documents and storing them digitally. This not only saves space but also makes it easier to find and manage your important papers.
8. Embrace Minimalism
Adopting a minimalist mindset can help you maintain a clutter-free home. Focus on keeping only those items that truly add value and joy to your life. Less really can be more.
9. Involve the Family
Get your family involved in the decluttering process. Encourage everyone to sort through their own belongings and make decisions about what to keep, donate, or toss. This not only lightens your load but also teaches valuable lessons about organization and simplicity.
10. Celebrate Your Progress
Take time to appreciate your hard work and the results. Enjoy the new sense of space and calm in your home. Reward yourself with a relaxing activity or treat to celebrate your accomplishment.
Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things; it’s about creating a home that feels calm, organized, and joyful. It’s a practice that brings me so much satisfaction, and I hope these steps help you experience the same.
Thank you for joining me on this journey to a simpler, more fulfilling life. Let’s continue to create spaces that inspire and uplift us.
With love,
Kerri
PS – Download your free Daily Rituals for a Joyful Life guide to help you incorporate joy and simplicity into your daily routine. Click here to get your copy now!