If you don't know where you're going, how do you know when you've got there?

In a world overflowing with possessions, the path to an organised home can often feel overwhelming. My previous blog touched on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler's delightful book, A Squash and a Squeeze, highlighting how an abundance of belongings can lead to discomfort. Now, let’s explore a structured approach to decluttering that starts from the end.

Without a planned approach, decluttering can go on and on, leaving you feeling disheartened. For some, you may not even start because you don't know where the end is. It's important when decluttering to have milestones that help you recognise your achievements and leave you feeling good. This feel-good feeling will be the motivator to carry you through to your next scheduled session. Decluttering a whole house can take months and feel like a never-ending task, and that's not something I want for you.

The Importance of a planned approach

Decluttering isn’t just about tidying one room; it’s about creating a cohesive living space. Often, when we declutter one area, we inadvertently shift items to another, creating a cycle that can leave us feeling deflated. Have you ever cleaned out a room only to find that items have migrated to other spaces, leaving you with an unfulfilled to-do list? This is why a thoughtful plan is essential.

Starting with the end in mind

While it might seem counterintuitive, starting at the end of your decluttering journey can provide clarity. Picture your home as a blank canvas and envision how you want it to feel. Write down "SO WHAT" in the centre of a piece of paper, and create a mind map of your home. List each room and identify which one is bothering you the most. This room is likely your dumping ground, filled with items that belong elsewhere.

For that first room ask yourself: “What will I do with the things that don’t belong here?” I recommend designating a large box for anything that needs to be relocated. This way, you can keep your current space organised while you work. Also keep everything in that box until it's time to work through the next room.

Setting Time Limits

Before diving into the decluttering process, consider how much time you can realistically dedicate. Some people thrive on long sessions, while others prefer shorter bursts of productivity. Note this time on your paper. Taking a photo of your starting point can also serve as motivation, reminding you of where you began.

As you prepare to declutter, ask yourself whether the task at hand is achievable. It’s okay to break it down into smaller, more manageable goals. If you are someone who finds yourself stuck deliberating, focus on simpler tasks first. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and make significant changes, you might surprise yourself with how much you can accomplish.

Be specific in your plans: “I will start in the corner by the window” or “I will reduce our collection of cups.” Setting realistic expectations is crucial. It’s better to underestimate your goals and exceed them than to overreach and feel defeated.

Making a concrete plan

If you have items to donate or recycle, set a date on your calendar to ensure they don’t linger in your home. A friend recently shared that her charity items had been sitting in her car for weeks. By scheduling this task, you can alleviate the mental burden of unfinished business.

Maintaining momentum

Consider other tasks on your agenda that might disrupt your decluttering flow. For instance, if you need to walk the dog, will that break your momentum? Keep your goals in mind, and if necessary, adjust your plan to allow for uninterrupted focus.

Finally, capture the transformation by taking a photo after you finish. Seeing the difference can be incredibly motivating and rewarding.

Celebrating your success

Finally, celebrate your achievements in a way that resonates with you. After decluttering a cupboard, take a moment to appreciate the space you’ve created. Something that works for me is I open the door and relish the sense of order I've brought to a room/cupboard.

Decluttering is not just about eliminating items; it’s about reclaiming your space and your peace of mind. By starting from the end and working backward, you can create a roadmap that leads to a more organised, fulfilling home. Embrace the journey, and remember: if you know where you’re going, it’s much easier to recognise when you’ve arrived.

If you need help sorting your home, please do get in touch. I provide face to face decluttering sessions or remote coaching sessions. With my flexible approach, I'm sure we can produce a plan that works for you.

Many thanks

Vicki

www.organisedandproud.com