Oh hi there! It’s Nicole here. As a professional organizer, I’ve seen a lot when it comes to clutter and disorganization! I know it can really start to weigh you down once you hit your 40s, 50s and beyond. You’ve experienced a lot, lived a lot, and accumulated a lot! I know I have!
With a few simple tips and a sparkly can-do attitude (a must!), you can finally get control of the dreaded clutter monster and create a serene, orderly home.
First Things First: Why We Clutter
Before we can slay the beast, we need to understand what’s causing it in the first place.
Sometimes clutter builds up because we’re sentimental savers – everything seems too precious to part with!
Other times, it’s because our stuff has simply outgrown our space. We’re only human after all.
Regardless of the reason, just remember that clutter equals stress. It’s so draining to be surrounded by piles of stuff you don’t need, don’t use, or don’t even like. So be kind to yourself and make decluttering a priority. Your mind and soul will thank you!
Step 1: Arm Yourself: Gather Supplies
Now that we’re in the right headspace, let’s gather supplies.
Clear off surfaces and sort clutter into the following categories: trash, donate, sell, stay.
You’ll need a few bins or boxes, bags for donations, packing materials if selling online, and maybe even a shredder for sensitive documents. You may also want to have some cleaning supplies on hand for the dust bunnies who want to come to greet you along the way.
Pro tip: turn on some upbeat music while you work! Having a cleaning playlist helps energize the process.
Step 2: Sort and Purge: Wave Goodbye to the Excess
It’s time to sort through each space with fresh eyes and a ruthless focus.
When deciding what stays or goes, ask yourself:
- When was the last time I used or enjoyed this?
- Does it still fit my lifestyle?
- Do I have duplicates I can eliminate?
Remember, decluttering isn’t about getting rid of your favorite things. It’s about trimming down to the items that truly matter so their beauty and purpose can shine through.
As you sort, be bold. Don’t let items linger in limbo – make quick decisions to trash, donate, sell or rehome items.
Free yourself from the burden of managing anything you don’t absolutely love or need. You’ve got this!
Step 3: Organize and Optimize: Create a Home Tailored to You
Now for the fun part: organizing what remains into a streamlined, clutter-free home!
Think through how you want to use each space.
- Bedrooms should promote relaxation and a sense of serenity, calm and peace.
- Kitchens should enable easy food prep, cooking and cleaning (not to mention make it easy to put away your groceries).
- Workspaces should spark productivity and yes, organization!
Arrange furnishings and items in a way tailored to your lifestyle and needs.
While organizing, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Store items near where you use them. Example: cooking utensils near the stove.
- Use baskets, dividers and clear containers to corral small items. Labeling helps too!
- Eliminate clutter magnets like junk drawers. Give everything a “home.”
- Display favorite items and decor strategically. Style with purpose.
- Pare down until you have only your most beautiful and useful belongings.
With a calm, focused mindset and these decluttering secrets, you can banish chaos and warmly welcome in neatness and serenity.
Display your favorite belongings with pride and learn to let go of what no longer fits.
You’ve got this! Here’s to decluttering with joy and making your home uniquely yours.
Let me know what’s worked for you and if you have any other tips and tricks. Wishing you success as you declutter and simplify. Now go enjoy those peaceful, tidy rooms you’ve created!
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