5 Decluttering Mistakes many people make that can hinder the goal of becoming clutter free.
Decluttering Mistakes
Waiting for the perfect time – Have you ever found a perfect time to do anything? It usually doesn’t exist. Instead of trying to find several hours a day to declutter, try finding small increments of time. If this seems like it will be a difficult task for you I would recommend starting with 15 minute increments. It’s easy to find 15 minutes in a day.
Just getting started is usually the hardest part of any task so starting out small is key. See if you can find 15 minutes a day and start from there. Add more time as you can. Usually once you get started you’ll be able to find a little more time. Try to make goals for each day or a week and stick to them. Set a timer to keep you on track and be aware of the amount of time you can schedule later.
Not focusing on one area at a time – As with anything else focusing on one thing at a time actually works. Multi tasking is a myth and usually doesn’t save you time. Jumping to another task without finishing the first one will actually take you longer to get back into the rhythm of the original task. Again, a timer is a good way to stay on track and help keep you focused.
Hanging onto something you don’t want – I know it can be hard to get rid of things especially gifts, but if they aren’t serving you get rid of them. Just because you loved something or needed it at one time doesn’t mean you have to keep it forever. If it’s not serving you anymore you don’t have to feel guilty for not keeping it.
You might know someone who can use things you no longer need or want. This is such a benefit to both of you. Don’t be afraid to share what you no longer want with someone else, I know it was such a benefit to us when we were newly married and saved us so much money.
Not getting rid of items right away – Don’t just move things to a different area of your home, remove them from your home. Make it a habit to get things out of your house at least once a week while you’re actively decluttering. I have a donation bin in the garage that I take to the donation center when I go into town. Don’t leave them in your vehicle either, it’s just causing more clutter in a new place and taking up space.
Thinking decluttering and organizing are the same thing – A lot of people mistake organizing for decluttering and visa versa. It’s much easier to organize a space and keep it that way if you take the time to declutter first. Decluttering is an ongoing process so take the time to stay on top of it. I find the easiest way to do this is to do it naturally. When you’re putting something back check the space and things in the area, evaluate your clothing as you’re doing laundry, get rid of broken or overused things right away.
Good luck in the decluttering process. Less clutter can make your home feel more comfortable and spacious. I also feel less stress when my home is in order. I hope it helps you feel the same way.
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