As touched on at the end of Decluttering Part 1, we’re going to discuss why there are no right or wrong ways to declutter. It doesn’t matter what other people are doing, what’s important is that you find a method that works for you.
There Isn’t a Right or Wrong Way When it Comes to Decluttering
There are many ways to declutter but none of them are right or wrong. You may be someone who wants to empty everything out, sort it immediately, put away what you’re keeping and then get rid of the things you don’t want to keep. If that’s you, great! But this method doesn’t suit everyone, and that’s why we’ve highlighted different methods on this site.
If the thought of taking every item from your wardrobe overwhelms you before you even begin, then you need a different decluttering method. Start small, perhaps with just one drawer or clutter hotspot, or choose a category such as clothes or books. Don’t try to declutter your entire home in a week; take your time. Unless you have a deadline such as moving house, then why does it matter that you don’t finish the job within two months?
The Timer Method
This just means allowing yourself a specific amount of time to declutter. If this appeals to your personality type, then go for it. Set a timer for 5, 10, 30 minutes or maybe an hour, and get stuck in. See how much you can achieve in your time slot, and this can help you stay focused and avoid becoming overwhelmed.
However You Decide to Declutter, Don’t Overthink It
Try to make decisions quickly, whichever decluttering method you use, and don’t overthink things. If you haven’t used something in a year, or you don’t love it, there’s no reason to keep it so get rid of it. (Read books on the subject of stuff. One we particularly like is Things That Matter by Joshua Becker of The Minimalists.)
Feeling stuck or overwhelmed? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re struggling to declutter on your own, a friend, family member, or professional organiser will be able to help.
Decluttering doesn’t have to be a chore. Listening to music, watching a movie, or inviting friends over to help can turn it into a fun event, so enjoy the process.
More Benefits of Decluttering
It may seem obvious, but once you’ve removed those unnecessary items, you’ll have more space. Not just in your home, but in your life. And most importantly, you’ll feel lighter. Too much clutter around us can feel like a burden: a weight on our shoulders. Once the clutter is removed, that weight is lifted.
You may also feel better about yourself. Rather than your belongings controlling you, you make a switch to being in control of them. This can help you feel more in control of your life, too.
When you get rid of things you don’t love or use, you’re making a statement. You’re clarifying what’s important to you, and what you want to focus on in life. And this can only be a good thing.
So go ahead and begin your decluttering journey, and see where it takes you.
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