Decluttering

A young girl joyfully participates in decluttering by placing a doll into a brightly labeled donation bin surrounded by toys in a well-organized playroom.

Conquering the Emotional Hurdles of Decluttering

Decluttering is the crucial initial step when transitioning to effective organizing systems. It's also one of the most challenging tasks. After all, this is my stuff! I've spent money on it! I need and want all of it, right? Even though these thoughts may seem valid, the reality is that we are problem solvers who thrive on space and straightforward achievements.

Alright, we're ready to begin...motivated and excited to finally make changes. A Hopeful Journey is the lifestyle you desire, and you're prepared to work hard now for those future 15 minutes of free time. Plus, you'll save time and money. So, choose a space. Start with a simple area that doesn't contain many sentimental items. Begin small, my friends, by selecting one drawer in one room or one bin in one closet. Take a quick photo of the space you're addressing.

Our decluttering categories are Keep, Donate/Sell, and Trash. Just remove one item at a time and make a quick decision. Don't hold onto an item while considering all the ways you could use it or make excuses to keep it. You are smart and capable! Make those firm decisions to keep only what serves your current life.

Keep: We're not keeping those jeans we'll fit into again someday (you deserve to go shopping when that time comes). We're not keeping the 'this could be used as such and such if...', nope—that's out too. Lastly, regarding keeps: the money has already been spent. If something isn't being used, you're just adding to your daily stress by seeing that item and thinking, 'I spent so much money on that, I should start using it.' If you aren't using it now, you won't in the near future.

Donate/sell: have your acceptable outlet in mind already. As a struggling perfectionist, I aim to donate to the 'right' places, so I relieve myself when it's overwhelming and head to goodwill instead of holding onto items for more research. For us: books, movies, and video games go in a library donation box. Clothes: goodwill or a specific 'group' we want to support. Board games and toys: schools and daycares. Old linens: animal shelters or the trash. But when in doubt, add it to the goodwill pile.

Trash: is just that. Yes, something may be repurposed or altered for another use, but let's be honest, nobody's got time for that! Say goodbye to that non-priority stuff and hello to space. If it's broken, ripped, torn, or overly loved...toss it out! No one wants your trash, so bless yourself with that space.

Finally, keep in mind a few self-talk encouragement tips:

• *Does it serve a purpose in my current life?

• *Would I buy it again now?

• *Can I replace it within 20 minutes for $20 or less?

• *If it's not a 'heck yes,' it's a no and has to go.

• *What's the worst that could happen if I don't have this? (Reality is you'll problem solve and just use something else you already have)

Now, get to work Hopefuls. You can do this and deserve to live less stressful lives! Your stuff does not have the power and does not own you. Stay Hopeful!

One plan. Every space. Your pace. 7 rooms. 30 small spaces. 90+ step-by-step guides. Organize your home for just $9/month—no pressure, all progress.