At the start of every year, many of us find ourselves reflecting on the past and contemplating positive changes for the future. One common theme that emerges is the desire to declutter our lives — both physically and mentally.
Decluttering can transform your living spaces and profoundly impact your overall well-being. This year, consider making New Year’s resolutions focusing on decluttering to kickstart a fresh and organized chapter in your life.
1. Make a List
Creating a list of what you want to achieve is a great way to focus on your goals. Start by identifying specific areas in your home that need attention, whether it’s an overflowing closet, cluttered kitchen cabinets or a disorganized workspace. Break down these larger areas into actionable tasks, such as decluttering one shelf at a time, sorting through clothes by category or creating designated spaces for items.
Consider the areas that have the most significant impact on your daily life or cause the most stress. For example, if a cluttered kitchen makes meal preparation more challenging, prioritize decluttering the pantry and cabinets. As you create your list, articulate the benefits you anticipate from organizing each space — whether it’s a more functional kitchen or a productive home office.
2. Donate or Sell Unwanted Items
As you declutter, consider the fate of items you no longer need. Rather than letting them collect dust, donate or sell them to give them a new life.
This approach contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle and brings a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. Knowing that your unwanted items may bring joy to someone else can make the decluttering process more rewarding.
Here are some questions to ask yourself when sorting through items:
Have I used this item in the last six months?
Is it still in good condition?
- Does it serve a practical purpose in my life?
Am I sentimentally attached to it?
Does it align with my current lifestyle and needs?
Do I have space to store it properly?
Does it hold significant memories, or am I keeping it out of guilt?
3. Declutter Your Digital Spaces
In this digital age, decluttering goes beyond your physical space. Digital clutter and a messy workspace are significant causes of stress, even as things move online.
Take time to organize your digital life by sorting out your phone, laptop, tablet and any other devices you may have. A clutter-free digital environment can enhance productivity and reduce stress.
Here are some ways you can get started:
Unsubscribe from unnecessary email lists
Clean up your inbox
Sort out your music playlists
Organize files into folders
Delete outdated or unused apps
Update any software and apps
Delete unnecessary photos or videos
4. Embrace a Minimalist Mindset
Minimalism is a powerful philosophy that encourages a deliberate focus on what truly adds value to your life while eliminating excess. Embrace the minimalist mindset by asking yourself whether each possession or commitment enhances your well-being and happiness. Letting go of unneeded belongings or distractions allows you to create space for what truly matters.
Additionally, using minimalist and softer colors can elevate your mood and improve your sense of well-being. These positive emotions can make you feel more relaxed in your clear, well-organized space.
5. Practice Mindful Consumerism
A sustainable decluttering journey involves adopting mindful consumer habits. Before making any new purchases, consider whether the item aligns with your values and serves a genuine purpose.
Avoid impulse buying and invest in high-quality, versatile items that stand the test of time. By curating a thoughtful and intentional living space, you’ll naturally reduce the need for constant decluttering.
Resolve to buy new items only when really necessary. For example, if your bedsheets are discolored, thinning and pilled, it’s probably time to buy a new set. In contrast, you don’t need to buy a new set just because you find a new pattern you like. Use and maintain what you already own before buying anything new.
6. Organize Your Kitchen Cupboards
How many cans do you have lying at the back of your cupboards that have expired months — or even years — ago? Organizing kitchen cupboards and disposing of expired items is a fantastic way to declutter and promote a healthier living space.
Begin by emptying each cupboard, taking stock of the contents and discarding any expired or questionable items. Donate any non-perishables that are still within their dates but you’re unlikely to use.
Once you’ve cleared out the clutter, categorize the remaining items and invest in storage solutions like clear containers or shelf organizers to maintain order. Group similar items together, making it easier to locate what you need and preventing future chaos.
7. Clean & Organize Regularly
Developing a consistent decluttering routine is a game-changer in maintaining an organized living space. Rather than viewing organizing as a sporadic, daunting task, integrating it into your regular schedule can make the process more manageable and less overwhelming.
Focus on one area at a time and set a time limit. Rather than trying to declutter your entire home in one session, focus on one specific area or room during each session. This targeted approach allows you to give proper attention to each space, making the process more effective.
Dedicate a short timeframe, such as 15 to 30 minutes, or use the Pomodoro technique, for each session. Starting with a small, manageable goal increases the likelihood that you’ll follow through and helps build momentum over time.
Clear Space, Clear Mind
The new year is a great time to set resolutions, refresh your life and create space for meaningful experiences. By beginning your decluttering journey, you can kickstart a transformative process that extends further than the physical spaces in your life. Embrace the new year as an opportunity to simplify, organize and cultivate a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle.
Cora Gold
Writer
Cora Gold is a home and family blogger and the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. Connect with Cora on LinkedIn, Twitter and Pinterest.
