Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in stuff? Like your home is overflowing with things you don’t need, use, or even want? You’re not alone. Many high-achieving women struggle with clutter, and it can be a significant source of stress and overwhelm.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the topic of decluttering with expert Courtney Florey, a decluttering coach and military wife who helps busy moms create simple, fulfilling lives. We’ll discuss the challenges of decluttering, the benefits of a clutter-free home, and practical tips for getting started (even if you’re a recovering perfectionist!).
The Real Reason Decluttering is So Hard (It’s Not What You Think!)
We often think decluttering is simply about getting rid of stuff. But there’s a deeper layer at play: our beliefs and emotions. Courtney explains that we often attach our identity to our possessions, making it difficult to let go.
“We can attach a lot of our identity to what we own, what we wear, the car we drive,” she says. “It’s important to peel back the layers and look at what we’re thinking about ourselves.”
When we define ourselves by our possessions, we hold on tightly to them, fearing that letting go means losing a part of ourselves. But the truth is, our things don’t define us. We are so much more than our possessions.
Why a Clutter-Free Home is More Than Just a Tidy Space
Decluttering isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a home that supports your well-being. A clutter-free home can:
- Reduce stress and anxiety: Clutter bombards our senses, making it difficult to relax and recharge. A tidy space promotes a sense of calm and peace.
- Improve focus and productivity: When our surroundings are organized, our minds are free to focus on what matters most.
- Boost creativity and energy: A clutter-free environment can spark creativity and increase energy levels.
- Create a sense of control and accomplishment: Taking charge of our physical space empowers us to take charge of other areas of our lives.
How to Start Decluttering (Even if You’re a Perfectionist!)
Ready to reclaim your space and create a home you love? Here are Courtney’s top tips for getting started:
- Start small: Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Choose a small, manageable area, like a bathroom cabinet or junk drawer.
- Set a timer: Commit to decluttering for just 10-15 minutes. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in a short amount of time.
- Focus on easy decisions: Avoid sentimental items or things that require a lot of thought. Choose items that are easy to let go of.
- Remember your why: Keep your goals in mind. Why do you want to declutter? What kind of space do you want to create?
- Celebrate your progress: Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small. Every item you declutter is a step in the right direction.
Overcoming the “What Ifs” of Decluttering
One of the biggest obstacles to decluttering is the fear of letting go of something we might need later. Courtney encourages us to challenge these “what if” thoughts.
“More often than not, those are stories that we tell ourselves,” she says. “We come up with things to justify keeping things because it feels so hard to let go.”
Instead of focusing on the “what ifs,” focus on the benefits of decluttering. A clutter-free home is a more peaceful, functional, and enjoyable space.
Dealing with Sentimental Items
Sentimental items can be the hardest to declutter. Courtney suggests setting limits on how many sentimental items you keep. Choose a specific space or container for these items, and be mindful of how much you’re holding onto.
If you’re struggling to let go of a sentimental item, ask yourself if the person who gave it to you would want you to keep it if it’s causing you stress or overwhelm. You can also consider passing it on to someone who will use and appreciate it.
Creating a Simple Life by Design
Decluttering is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. It’s about making conscious choices about what we bring into our homes and lives. It’s about creating a life that is aligned with our values and priorities.
Courtney’s Simple Life Starter Kit and Simplicity Society offer support and guidance for women who are ready to create a simpler, more fulfilling life. The starter kit provides 10 simple decluttering tasks to get you started, while the Simplicity Society offers a community of like-minded women who meet regularly to declutter together.
You Are Not Alone
Decluttering can be a challenging but rewarding journey. Remember, you don’t have to do it alone. There are resources and support available to help you create a home and life you love.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter, take a deep breath and remember Courtney’s final words of encouragement: “Remember why you’re doing this…think about what you want your life to look like and use that as your motivation to start.”
Take the first step today. Your future self will thank you!
