Hi everyone, it’s Rita Wilkins, the Downsizing Designer, back with my five quick tips in five minutes to help you declutter and simplify your life. Today’s tips are all about how to motivate yourself to declutter, even when you don’t feel like it. Let’s get started!
1. Invite Friends Over
There’s nothing more motivating than a deadline. Invite your friends over for a party. The prospect of having guests over will naturally drive you to start decluttering certain areas of your home that your guests will see, such as the kitchen, family room, and foyer. You don’t want to let your friends down, and you want them to see your home in its best, clutter-free state.
2. Invite a Friend to Declutter with You
If you have a friend who knows you’re struggling with decluttering and truly wants to help, schedule a decluttering session or a few of them with her. When you have an appointment to declutter, you’re more motivated to respect both her time and your own. Working together makes the task feel less overwhelming and more enjoyable. If you’re lucky enough to have a dear friend willing to help, you’ll want to show your appreciation by making significant progress.
3. Focus on the Needs of Others
Gratitude is a powerful motivator. Use this mindset to get moving on your decluttering journey. Choose an area of your home that is overflowing with stuff—maybe it’s your closet, pantry, or linen closet. Assess your excess in that area, then think of a charity you care about. For instance, a women’s shelter where your extra clothes can make a huge difference. Knowing that your sweaters, pants, jackets, shoes, and coats will be worn by someone in need can be incredibly motivating. Think of how grateful they will be after you’ve donated your excess, and let that drive you to declutter.
4. Track Your Progress
When you declutter a little bit each day or week, it can be hard to see how much progress you’re making. Take before and after pictures of each area you declutter. Whether it’s your nightstand, medicine cabinet, or junk drawer, these photos serve as strong reminders of how far you’ve come. This visual proof of your efforts will keep you motivated to continue simplifying your life.
5. Declutter Now So Your Kids Don’t Have To
If you’ve ever had to clean out a home of a parent, grandparent, or loved one, you know how painful and time-consuming that process can be. Many of my clients and followers swear they’ll never do that to their own kids. This is one of the most powerful motivators. Create a room-by-room, step-by-step plan to declutter and remove excess from your home now, so your kids won’t have to do it when you’re gone. Not only will this help you enjoy a clutter-free home now, but your family will be grateful that you took care of it while you were still able.
By incorporating these five tips, you can find the motivation to declutter and simplify your life, even when it feels daunting. Remember, the goal is to create a living space that supports your present and future well-being. Decluttering is a journey, not a one-time event, and small, consistent efforts make a big difference over time.
Ready to start your minimalist journey? Rita’s “Essential Checklists” Decluttering Workbook is the perfect companion to guide you through the process. Packed with room-specific checklists and 30-day challenges, it turns tidying into a joyful adventure. Purchase Rita’s Decluttering Workbook today and discover how minimalism can enhance your small space living.
Looking for even more information about minimalism, decluttering, and downsizing? If so, visit my YouTube channel today!
