Six decluttering mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Six decluttering mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Decluttering is the first step on your journey to a calm and clutter-free space. It’s a big task, and it’s wise to be as well prepared as you can be before you start. If you’re jumping in too quickly, or spending money on items you might not even need, you could lose motivation to continue what you’ve started. Become aware of the points below so that you start - and end - your project on the right note.
1) The assumption you don't have anything to declutter.
You always do! What can be considered clutter? You might look at your closet and scan all the items and be convinced that you need all the pieces in the closet and there is nothing that can be decluttered. But when you take each item in your hands and ask yourself if you need it or love it, you will be surprised at your answers.
2) Trying to declutter too much at once.
Start small, choose one area and start from there. For example, doing the entire children's bedroom might be too much. Perhaps start with the clothes. Then the books and then the toys.
3) Assuming decluttering is easy.
No, it is not always easy. It can be emotional, stressful and increase anxiety. Perseverance is the key and the support of a home organizer who can coach you through the steps of how to successfully declutter, makes it so much easier. Learning how to do it properly, making it a life-long habit.
4) Thinking you need to throw away items you don't need.
Rather donate or give away, you will be surprised how many items can be repurposed or recycled.
5) Buying storage items before you have decluttered.
You need to thoroughly declutter before you start to buy any storage containers. Too often, money can be wasted on storage items and then after decluttering you do not actually need them. Also remember to measure carefully before you buy items to see if they fit in the cupboards or drawers. Sometimes you might think you need to buy additional furniture like a chest of drawers, but once you have decluttered you might find you do not even need another piece of furniture.
6) The assumption that decluttering once is enough.
You have to declutter regularly to maintain organized systems in your home. Depending on the frequency of use, certain spaces need to be organized every week like the fridge or once a month like the pantry or once every 3 months like the closet.
Remember to enjoy this project! Help is not far when you need a fresh perspective or guidance as you work through your home. For more insight into making your home a calm and peaceful place, download The SPACE Method - a free downloadable resource I’ve created to guide you.
Six decluttering mistakes (and how to avoid them)
Decluttering is the first step on your journey to a calm and clutter-free space. It’s a big task, and it’s wise to be as well prepared as you can be before you start. If you’re jumping in too quickly, or spending money on items you might not even need, you could lose motivation to continue what you’ve started. Become aware of the points below so that you start - and end - your project on the right note.
1) The assumption you don't have anything to declutter.
You always do! What can be considered clutter? You might look at your closet and scan all the items and be convinced that you need all the pieces in the closet and there is nothing that can be decluttered. But when you take each item in your hands and ask yourself if you need it or love it, you will be surprised at your answers.
2) Trying to declutter too much at once.
Start small, choose one area and start from there. For example, doing the entire children's bedroom might be too much. Perhaps start with the clothes. Then the books and then the toys.
3) Assuming decluttering is easy.
No, it is not always easy. It can be emotional, stressful and increase anxiety. Perseverance is the key and the support of a home organizer who can coach you through the steps of how to successfully declutter, makes it so much easier. Learning how to do it properly, making it a life-long habit.
4) Thinking you need to throw away items you don't need.
Rather donate or give away, you will be surprised how many items can be repurposed or recycled.
5) Buying storage items before you have decluttered.
You need to thoroughly declutter before you start to buy any storage containers. Too often, money can be wasted on storage items and then after decluttering you do not actually need them. Also remember to measure carefully before you buy items to see if they fit in the cupboards or drawers. Sometimes you might think you need to buy additional furniture like a chest of drawers, but once you have decluttered you might find you do not even need another piece of furniture.
6) The assumption that decluttering once is enough.
You have to declutter regularly to maintain organized systems in your home. Depending on the frequency of use, certain spaces need to be organized every week like the fridge or once a month like the pantry or once every 3 months like the closet.
Remember to enjoy this project! Help is not far when you need a fresh perspective or guidance as you work through your home. For more insight into making your home a calm and peaceful place, download The SPACE Method - a free downloadable resource I’ve created to guide you.
