BONUS MATERIAL: Get Your Chaos To Calm Decluttering Guide Here
Life as a busy woman is full of challenges. Between work, family, and personal commitments, finding time to declutter can feel impossible. But a clutter-free home can reduce stress and increase productivity.
If you don’t know where to start, here are some simple, professional tips to help you begin your decluttering journey.
1. Start with a Plan
Before you dive in, take a moment to plan. Identify the areas in your home that need the most attention. Write down a list of rooms or spaces and prioritise them based on how cluttered they are and how often you use them.
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2. Set Realistic Goals
Break down your decluttering into manageable tasks. Instead of aiming to declutter your entire home in one weekend, focus on one room or even one section of a room at a time. This makes the process less overwhelming and more achievable.
3. Create a Decluttering Schedule
Integrate decluttering into your daily or weekly routine. Even dedicating 15 minutes a day can lead to significant progress over time. Schedule it like any other important task to ensure it gets done.
4. Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, gather boxes or bags for sorting items into categories: Keep, Donate, Sell, and Bin. Having these ready will streamline the process and keep you organised.
5. Begin with High-Impact Areas
Start with areas that will give you the most satisfaction once they are decluttered. The kitchen counter, your wardrobe, or the living room are good places to start. Seeing a clear and organised space will motivate you to keep going.
6. Apply the Four-Box Method
As you work through each space, use the four-box method:
• Keep: Items you use regularly and love.
• Donate: Items in good condition that you no longer need.
• Sell: Valuable items that you could sell.
• Bin: Items that are broken or no longer useful.
7. Set a Timer
To keep from feeling overwhelmed, set a timer for each decluttering session. Work for 15-30 minutes, take a short break, and then decide if you want to continue or stop for the day.
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8. Tackle One Area at a Time
Focus on one area at a time, such as a drawer, a shelf, or a section of a room. Completing small areas gives a sense of accomplishment and encourages you to move on to the next task.
9. Make Quick Decisions
To avoid getting stuck, make quick decisions about each item. If you haven’t used it in the past year and it doesn’t hold sentimental value, it’s probably time to let it go.
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10. Use the “Maybe” Box
For items you’re unsure about, use a “Maybe” box. Store it out of sight for a few months. If you don’t miss or need anything from it during that time, it’s a sign those items can go.
11. Digitise Where Possible
Reduce paper clutter by digitising documents, photos, and receipts. This not only saves space but also makes important information easier to find.
12. Get Support
If the task feels too big, enlist the help of family members or friends. Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes can provide new perspectives and make the process more enjoyable.
13. Celebrate Small Wins
Acknowledge and celebrate your progress, no matter how small. Each decluttered space is a step towards a more organised home and a calmer mind.
Final Thoughts
Decluttering can seem daunting, especially when you’re busy. But by starting small, setting realistic goals, and making it a part of your routine, you can transform your home into a more organised and peaceful space.
Happy decluttering!