Establishing a Routine for De-Cluttering: A 5-Step Guide to Maintain Uncluttered Living Spaces Perpetually
In the pursuit of a tidier living space, understanding the origins of visual chaos in our homes is the first step. "Mind Over Clutter" by Nicola Lewis offers valuable insights on this topic.
One individual has managed to maintain a decluttering schedule for the first half of the year, a strategy that has proven beneficial in making clearer decisions and freeing up valuable brain, time, and mornings.
Consistency, rather than intensity, is key when it comes to a decluttering schedule, according to Cynthia Kennedy, a San Diego-based personal stylist and image consultant. She recommends setting clear, realistic goals and breaking the overall task into manageable, small areas or categories, such as the spice rack or junk drawer.
Scheduling decluttering like appointments can increase the likelihood of following through. Gerrit Jan Reinders, another expert in the field, suggests prioritizing high impact zones, such as the kitchen counter, areas around the front door, or workspace, when mapping out a decluttering schedule.
A decluttering schedule keeps one out of the all-or-nothing trap, allowing for regular, manageable decluttering moments. Setting a timer, such as a 30-minute one, can help create clarity during these sessions.
When it comes to organizing items quickly and making decisions easier, methods like the four-box sorting system (Trash, Give Away/Sell, Storage, Put Away) can be very helpful.
To maintain momentum, it's important to celebrate small progress and adopt habits like the "One-In, One-Out" rule for long-term order.
For those looking for inspiration, Zoe Rivers' 103 Prompts for Decluttering provides a wealth of ideas for easy tasks to get started with. Gerrit Jan Reinders suggests starting with the toughest tasks first to provide energy for the rest of the process.
The Motivational Decluttering Journal by Sunny Meridian is a 90-day journal and workbook that can help establish a tidying routine. The REACHER Alarm Clock from Amazon can aid in digital detox tasks during decluttering sessions.
Building a clutter exit strategy is important in a decluttering schedule, as it includes time to physically remove items.
By following these tips and creating a personalised decluttering schedule, one can transform their space from a source of stress into a place that works for them, not against them.
- In the bathroom, a simple way to declutter is by reverting tiles to a single, unifying color, creating a sense of cohesion and simplicity.
- Acquiring art for the living room can add texture and personality to the space, enhancing the overall lifestyle ambiance.
- During the decluttering process, the kitchen can benefit from updating at-eye-level cupboard colors to contrast with the cabinets above and below, making items easier to locate.
- Incorporating a home-improvement project focused on decluttering could involve reorganizing the storage in a small home-and-garden shed, making yard work tools more accessible.
- Achieving a clutter-free home through decluttering can have positive effects beyond one's living space, such as enhancing mental clarity and creativity in various aspects of life.
