How to Get Started with Decluttering When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Starting a decluttering journey can be intimidating. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of going through all of your belongings and making decisions about what to keep and what to let go of. The task can feel endless, and you might wonder where to even begin. But here are a few tips from a professional organizer serving Spokane, Spokane Valley, and Liberty Lake to make the process manageable, even enjoyable, as you start to bring more clarity and calm into your space.

Start Small and Build Momentum

One of the most effective ways to ease into decluttering is to start small. Pick just one area – a single drawer, a small shelf, or even just your handbag or car. The key here is to choose a space that feels manageable and doesn’t take hours to get through. By tackling a small, defined space, you’ll be able to complete the task quickly, giving you a sense of accomplishment without feeling drained. This small win can build momentum and make it easier to keep going.

Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you get started with decluttering:

1. Choose One Tiny Area to Focus On

Pick something small, like a bathroom drawer, the top of your dresser, or a junk drawer in the kitchen. Decluttering one drawer or shelf allows you to focus your energy on a manageable area, avoiding the overwhelm that comes from tackling a larger space. Don’t worry about the rest of your home just yet; today, this small space is your only focus.

2. Set a Timer for 15 Minutes

Commit to just 15 minutes for this task. Setting a timer helps you avoid the feeling that decluttering will take all day. If you finish early, you can always use the remaining time to organize the items you’ve decided to keep or just relax, knowing you’ve made progress.

3. Sort Quickly and Trust Your Instincts

As you go through the items, try to sort them into three piles:

• Keep: Items you use regularly or that bring you joy.

• Donate or Recycle: Things you no longer need but that could be helpful to others.

• Trash: Anything broken or expired that no longer serves a purpose.

  
  

When making decisions, trust your instincts. If you hesitate, set the item aside and revisit it at the end. Often, it’s easier to make decisions when you see the pile as a whole.

4. Celebrate Your Progress

Once the timer goes off, take a moment to appreciate the work you’ve done. Stand back and look at your newly decluttered space. Acknowledge the fact that you’ve made a positive change in your home. That little burst of accomplishment is incredibly motivating and can propel you to continue.

5. Keep the Momentum Going, But Don’t Force It

If you feel inspired, you might want to tackle another small area. But if you’re feeling done for the day, that’s okay too! Decluttering is a journey, and there’s no rush. Remember, even a small change like clearing one drawer contributes to creating a more organized, peaceful space in your home.

Why Starting Small Works

Starting with a small space allows you to experience the benefits of decluttering without overwhelming yourself. Over time, each small victory adds up, and you’ll notice your space becoming more organized and functional. This approach reduces stress and lets you see that even small efforts make a big difference.

Ready for the Next Step? Get Your Free 30-Day Declutter Challenge Printable!

If you’re ready to take the plunge but want a bit of guidance along the way, get my free 30-Day Declutter Challenge printable! This guide gives you a small, achievable decluttering task for each day of the month, helping you build momentum and make steady progress toward a more organized home. Each day’s task is designed to be quick and manageable, so you’ll be able to fit it into your routine easily.

Download the Free 30-Day Declutter Challenge Printable Now!

Decluttering doesn’t have to be all-or-nothing. Take it one small space at a time, and watch as you create a home that feels clearer, more peaceful, and truly yours. As a professional organizer serving Spokane, Spokane Valley, and Liberty Lake, I’m here to support you on your journey to a beautifully organized home. Happy decluttering!