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A healthy lifestyle covers so many aspects, and while it might sometimes be overlooked, one of the best ways to live a healthy and happy life is to declutter your home.
Cleaning out and tidying up has an instant positive effect on the mind and creates a space in your home that is enjoyable and less cluttered. Even cleaning up mess behind closed cupboard doors makes a difference. If you are hoarding items and feeling cramped and disorganised, follow these easy decluttering steps for a feel-good factor you’ll love so much, you’ll never go back to mess again.
Decluttering can seem like a daunting task. Many people put it off because it feels too big, emotional attachments make it difficult, or it seems like it will get worse before it gets better. However, once you get started, it becomes easier and self-perpetuating – tidying up encourages more tidying up. While your home may look chaotic initially, dedicating short bursts of time will quickly show worthwhile results.
Benefits of a decluttered home
Keeping your home tidy brings many advantages:
- Use more of your items
- Find things easily
- Create space for entertaining and guests
- Buy fewer unnecessary things
- Be more organised mentally
- Experience the joy of a clear and simple space
- Use your space the way you want
- Love your home and being in it more
- Rediscover items you forgot you had
Decluttering steps
1. Go easy
Start with the easiest room or the one that most motivates you. Pull everything out, even items you will keep, so you have a clean and inviting space to organise your favourite things.
2. Keep things you love
When sorting through items, focus on the ones you love. Items that don’t spark joy are likely ready to part ways. Creating a home for your favourite things can help you feel more in control and reduce unnecessary clutter.
3. Say goodbye gently
Overcome guilt by expressing gratitude for the item and considering how it will benefit someone else. Donating or selling items to a good home can make letting go easier.
4. Say hello with a smile
Not everything needs to be discarded. The goal is to organise your space so items are accessible and useful. Sentimental items can be turned into art, albums, or memory boxes instead of being tucked away.
5. Go by the clock
Set a timer and focus on one small area of your home. Even ten minutes consistently each day will show progress and make the process feel manageable.
6. Clean before you tidy
Start by removing broken, damaged, or stained items. Be honest about what you will realistically use. Donate items that can be reused by schools or others.
7. Never put off for tomorrow what you can do today
Address tasks immediately. Tackling clutter as it arises prevents problems from growing and keeps your space manageable.
8. Finish what you start
Complete one room fully before moving to the next. Reward yourself once you finish to reinforce positive habits and motivate yourself for the next area.
