Decluttering Mistakes That Keep You Stuck
Organization and Action Steps for Those Who Are Stuck in the Decluttering Process
Decluttering is not an easy task. It can be hard to get started. And, once started, it’s hard to keep the momentum going. But there are some mistakes we may be making that derail our efforts. When it comes to decluttering, there is no time like the present. You will start to see incredible improvements in your home, routine, frame of mind, and free time once you dig in. In addition to decluttering, put yourself on a spending freeze. If you stop bringing things into your home, you will already be making progress with little to no effort. Look to The Uncluttered Life’s Declutter Deck® for tips and tricks about home organization.
Organization
Don’t take on too much at once. This is a surefire way to burn out and lose momentum before you get started. It will also make you feel like you’re failing. Starting with just 5-10 minutes a day in a tiny space can make a big difference in no time.
Buying organizing products will not make your house less messy. Decluttering is mandatory in advance of purchasing any organizing products.
Decluttering other people’s things is just a way of procrastinating the decluttering you need to do on your own things. It is not motivating. It is choosing not to focus on your own things and getting control over another’s. Focus on yourself only.
We can spend too much time trying to sell things. Nine times out of ten you aren’t going to make any money or nearly as much as you think you will. Donate the items you no longer want. Do not pass them on to family members or friends.
Action Steps
Declutter your own things first. This is going to be inspiring and motivating to both you and your family. When they see you and your space looking and feeling better, they will be tempted to follow suit.
Know when your best times to declutter are and then make an appointment with yourself to follow through. Have a plan that details what you want to accomplish. Make a list of charities that you would like to receive your donations. Don’t overthink it, though, as this can be a stumbling block to decluttering.
Try to detach as much emotion as you can from the decluttering process by asking yourself questions such as, “Is the item serving you?” When was the last time you used it?
Focus on what you’re going to keep instead of what you are going to let go. What brings you joy? Marie Kondo asks what “sparks joy.” What is useful?