How to Declutter When You Have Too Much Stuff

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Have you ever found yourself sitting in a room, looking around, and thinking, “Where did all this stuff come from?”

You’re not alone. It’s a common feeling, especially when life gets busy, and clutter seems to build up faster than we can deal with it.

I remember the first time I felt completely overwhelmed by the clutter in my home. It was one of those moments where I looked around and thought, “How did it get this bad?” I decided I needed to declutter, but I didn’t know where to start.

In my eagerness to tackle it all, I made the mistake of diving into two big areas at once. I spent hours trying to sort through everything, but it quickly became too much. I felt stressed, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do with so many items. I ended up giving away things to the charity shop that I later regretted, and overall, the experience left me feeling defeated.

After that, I realised I needed a different approach. I started with smaller tasks, focusing on just one drawer or one shelf at a time. This slow, steady method made a world of difference. It felt manageable, and each small success motivated me to keep going. Eventually, I saw real progress without the overwhelm, and I learned that sometimes, the best way to tackle clutter is one step at a time.

The thought of decluttering can be overwhelming, but don’t worry. This guide is here to break it down into simple steps that even the busiest of us can manage. Let’s start with some practical tips that will help you tackle the clutter, no matter how much stuff you have.

Why Clutter Happens

Clutter often builds up because life gets in the way. Between work, family, and everyday responsibilities, it’s easy for things to pile up. Sometimes, it’s emotional—holding onto items because they remind us of special moments. Other times, it’s simply about not knowing where to start. The key is to understand that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed, and there are ways to make the process easier.

The Impact of Clutter

Clutter doesn’t just take up physical space—it can weigh on your mind too. It can create a sense of chaos, making it harder to focus and adding to daily stress. Clearing your space can lead to a clearer mind, helping you feel more organised and in control.

Tackling the Obvious Clutter First

Step 1: Start with the Simple Stuff

The first step to decluttering is to tackle the obvious clutter—the things that don’t require any decisions. Grab a bag and walk through the room, collecting anything that’s clearly rubbish: old receipts, broken items, empty packaging. These are things you can easily identify as trash and throw away immediately. This step is quick and gives you an instant sense of accomplishment because you’re already creating more space.

Step 2: Move on to the Obvious Keep-or-Toss Items

Next, go through the room again, but this time look for items that you know you no longer need or want. These might be things that are broken, items you haven’t used in ages, or things that don’t serve a purpose anymore. This step might take a bit more time, but it’s still relatively easy because you’re dealing with items that don’t require much emotional decision-making. By the end of this step, you’ll already notice a significant difference in the room.

Approaches to Decluttering: Finding What Works for You

Decluttering doesn’t have to be done in one exhausting session. Different approaches work for different people, so it’s important to find what suits your lifestyle and stress levels.

• The All-Day Approach

Some women prefer to dedicate an entire day to decluttering. They set aside a full day, focus on one room or area, and don’t stop until it’s done. This method works well if you have the time and energy for a big push. It allows you to see dramatic results quickly, which can be very satisfying.

• The Slow and Steady Approach

On the other hand, if the idea of spending an entire day decluttering feels overwhelming, a slower, more gradual approach might be better. Spend just 15-30 minutes a day tackling a small area. This method is perfect for busy women who can’t spare a whole day. It’s less stressful and more manageable, and over time, those small sessions add up to big results.

Going Deeper: Clearing the Clutter Layer by Layer

Once you’ve tackled the obvious clutter, it’s time to go deeper. By now, you’ll have a clearer space, making it easier to see what’s left.

Step 3: Address the Next Layer

Now, look at the items that are still around. These might be things you use occasionally or items you’re not sure about. This is where you’ll need to start making decisions. Ask yourself questions like:

• Do I use this regularly?

• Does it serve a purpose or bring me joy?

• Would I miss it if it were gone?

These questions help you decide what to keep and what to let go of. Remember, it’s okay to keep things that are meaningful or useful, but try to be honest with yourself about what you truly need.

Step 4: Organise What’s Left

After removing the clutter, it’s time to organise what’s left. Group similar items together, find a dedicated space for everything, and consider using storage solutions like bins, baskets, or drawer organisers. This will help you maintain a clutter-free space moving forward.

Maintaining a Clutter-Free Space

Once you’ve decluttered, keeping your space organised is key. Here are some tips to help maintain a clutter-free environment:

• Adopt Daily Habits: Spend a few minutes each day tidying up. It’s easier to keep things in order with regular maintenance.

• One In, One Out: For every new item you bring into your home, consider letting go of an old one. This helps prevent clutter from building up again.

• Regular Check-Ins: Every few months, take some time to reassess your space. Are there items you’ve accumulated that you no longer need? Regular check-ins help keep your space clear and organised.

Decluttering when you have too much stuff can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into simple, manageable steps makes it possible. Start with the obvious clutter, find an approach that works for you, and tackle it layer by layer. With a little patience and consistency, you’ll create a space that feels calm, organised, and truly yours.

If you found these tips helpful, I’d love to hear about your decluttering journey! Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to sign up for my mailing list for more practical organising advice.