Simplifying and Decluttering Your Home: A New Year's Resolution for a Fresh Start

As the new year begins, it's the perfect time to embark on a journey towards a simpler and more organized life. Simplifying and decluttering your home not only creates a peaceful and harmonious environment but also brings a sense of clarity and focus to your mind. In this post, we will explore the importance of simplifying and provide you with ten practical and achievable steps to help you declutter your home and start the year off on the right foot.

1. Set Clear Goals:

Start by defining your goals for simplifying and decluttering your home. Identify the areas that need the most attention and set specific targets for each space. This will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

This is what I call the “Punch List.” To start, take a pad of paper and a pen, or even the Notes App on your phone, and take a walk around your home. Make a list of the areas that you want to focus on and add to your list.

2. Create a Plan:

Develop a step-by-step plan to guide your decluttering journey. Break down each room or area into manageable tasks and schedule specific times to work on them. Having a plan in place will prevent overwhelm and ensure steady progress.

3. Take it One Room at a Time:

Instead of trying to tackle your entire home at once, focus on one room or area at a time. Start with the space that bothers you the most or the one you use the most frequently. This approach allows you to see tangible results and keeps you motivated.

My favorite area to begin with is the “Stuff Drawer.” We all have one and in my opinion, we all need one. But over time, this drawer or area collects “all the things.” Starting here will give you a quick win in your process and motivate you to continue.

4. Sort and Declutter:

Begin by sorting your belongings into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need and what items hold sentimental value. Let go of things that no longer serve a purpose or bring you joy.

To take this a step further, designate an area in your home for all items you plan to donate or sell. As you continue throughout your process, all of your donate/sell items will go to this area. To keep yourself on task, you can pre-schedule an at home pick up of your donated items if you have a service in your area. In my area, I like to use Helpsy (www.helpsy.com). They take most clothing items, shoes and the like.

5. Adopt Minimalism:

Embrace the principles of minimalism by keeping only the essentials and letting go of excess. Practice mindful consumption and avoid accumulating unnecessary items. By adopting a minimalist mindset, you'll create a more serene and spacious living environment.

Now, I am not saying to go full Kim Kardashian and remove everything in your home. We still want our homes to feel cozy, welcoming and safe. However, I want you to ask yourself “do I need X number of Y?” and “Is this really something I NEED” when you find yourself browsing the aisles at Target. You can adopt my mantra “Less is More in ‘24” to serve as a reminder.

6. Organize and Store:

Once you've decluttered, focus on organizing and finding proper storage solutions for the items you choose to keep. Invest in storage containers, shelving units, or closet organizers to maximize space and maintain order.

There are so many effective storage solutions on the market. If you aren’t sure where to start or what will work best in your home, consider scheduling a consultation.

7. Create Daily Habits:

To prevent clutter from accumulating in the future, develop daily habits that promote tidiness. Spend a few minutes each day decluttering and organizing small areas. Put things back in their designated places immediately after use. These small actions will make a significant difference over time.

Some phrases to remember that will help with your daily habits:

• Don’t put it down, put it away.

• Everything has a home.

• If it takes less than 5 minutes, do it now.

8. Digitize and Go Paperless:

Reduce paper clutter by digitizing important documents and embracing a paperless lifestyle. Scan and store important papers digitally, switch to online bill payments, and unsubscribe from unnecessary mailings. Going paperless not only saves space but also helps the environment.

9. Practice Mindful Purchasing:

Before making a purchase, ask yourself if the item is truly necessary and brings value to your life. Avoid impulsive buying and prioritize quality over quantity. By practicing mindful purchasing, you'll prevent unnecessary clutter from entering your home.

10. Seek Support and Accountability:

Decluttering and simplifying your home can be a challenging task. Seek support from friends, family, or online communities who share similar goals. Having someone to hold you accountable and provide encouragement can make the process more enjoyable and rewarding.

Simplifying and decluttering your home is a powerful New Year's resolution that can transform your living space and enhance your overall well-being. By following these ten steps, you'll be well on your way to creating a more peaceful and organized home. Embrace the journey and enjoy the benefits of a simplified life.

Happy decluttering!