If you’re like me, you always have a book in your hand because there’s always something new to learn. 

As the “Downsizing Designer,” I think I have read and reread almost every book that’s been written on downsizing, decluttering, lifestyle design, minimalism and organizing.

This summer, I decided to select my top 7 books in this genre and decide how and why that specific message influenced me so that I could provide you with my favorite and most impactful summer reads on downsizing, decluttering, lifestyle design, minimalism, and organizing.

You may have heard of some of these books and authors, others you may have not, but these are my top 7 recommendations to read if you are seeking to live a simpler more abundant life with less.

Decluttering and Organizing

1. Decluttering at The Speed of Life: Winning Your Never-Ending Battle with Stuff by Dana White

Dana helps you understand why it’s difficult to let go of stuff by helping you identify key emotional challenges when decluttering. Her lighthearted and humorous approach also provides simple solutions that will help you end your battle with clutter for good.

2. The Gentle Art of Swedish Death, Cleaning: How to Free Yourself from A Lifetime of Clutter by Margaretta Magnusson

Margaretta shares her wisdom and humor to help us deal with an often difficult subject to discuss: putting our affairs in order before we pass so our kids won’t have to! 

Her approach is radical and to the point, yet funny and moving while helping us learn how to get comfortable with letting go of our stuff.

3. Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering by Marie Kondo

Perhaps one of the most popular influencers who helped create the decluttering movement, Marie Kondo’s methods are simple and easy to implement, and as her book says, “life-changing.” Her approach is methodical, matter-of-fact, and effective.

4. What Your Clutter Is Trying to Tell You: Uncover the Message in The Mess and Reclaim Your Life by Kerri Richardson

Kerri’s book is a wake-up call for us to listen to the messages of our clutter, to face our fears, and to take steps to clear the physical and emotional clutter from our lives. 

She provides tips on making changes to our mindset and habits that got us there in the first place while providing practical advice to prevent clutter in the future. Her approach is as much about decluttering and as it is about creating a new clutter-free lifestyle.

5. The Joy of Less: A Minimalist Guide to Decluttering and Organizing by Francine Jay

Francine’s message is inspiring, aspirational, and hopeful. She provides specific ideas and will help you realize it is possible to live a life you love with less.

Her approach is fun and light-hearted, reminding us of the joys and rewards that we will receive once we decide to declutter.

Minimalism and Lifestyle Design

6. The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own by Joshua Becker

Joshua has not only been one of my biggest influencers, but he is one of the top minimalist lifestyle advocates in the world. His story and his reason for choosing to become a minimalist is heartwarming and heartfelt. 

His book teaches us how and why to get rid of what we want and don’t want and need so we can make room for what we do want and need, making room for a more meaningful and fulfilling life that aligns with our core values.

7. Let It Go: Downsize Your Way to A Richer, Happier Life by Peter Walsh

If you are preparing to sell your home, blend households or clear out your parents’ home after they’ve passed, this book is a practical how to guide to help you successfully maneuver and accomplish the daunting task. He provides positive and happy insights into the freedom you will experience after decluttering and downsizing.

If you would like to purchase any of these books, they are available on Amazon. I’d love to hear back from you and how they made a difference for you on your journey to living a simpler life with less.

This page contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase after clicking a link, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Are you Ready?

Take that first step and open yourself up to a world of freedom, peace, and fulfillment. Rita has the expertise and tools you need to create a more peaceful and intentional life. From ebooks to online courses and personalized decluttering plans, Rita’s resources are designed to help you achieve your goals and create a life that feels authentically you. So why wait? Start living your best life today with Rita’s lifestyle design and decluttering resources. Remember, the power to live a minimalist lifestyle lies in your hands.

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