Hi everyone, it’s Rita Wilkins, the Downsizing Designer, back with another edition of my “Five Tips in Five Minutes” series to help you declutter and simplify your life. Today, we’re tackling a common challenge: finding the motivation to declutter, especially when you just don’t feel like it. Decluttering can sometimes feel overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, you can overcome those hurdles and create a more organized, serene living environment. Let’s dive into these five practical tips to help you get motivated and make decluttering a breeze.
1. Invite Friends Over for a Party
There’s nothing more motivating than a deadline, especially one that involves guests. If you’ve been procrastinating on decluttering, consider inviting friends over for a gathering. Knowing that people will be in your home can be a powerful motivator to tidy up those areas they’re likely to see, such as the kitchen, family room, and foyer. The desire to present your home in its best, clutter-free state will kickstart your decluttering efforts. Simplify your life by using social events as a way to motivate yourself to clear out the clutter and create a welcoming space.
2. Declutter with a Friend
Sometimes, all you need is a little support from someone who understands the struggle. If you have a friend who knows you’re having trouble decluttering and genuinely wants to help, schedule a decluttering session together. When you’ve made an appointment with a friend, you’re naturally more motivated to respect both her time and your own. Use that time together to get things done. Having a friend by your side can make the task feel less daunting and more enjoyable. Plus, you’ll want to show your appreciation by making significant progress.
3. Focus on the Needs of Others
Gratitude is an incredibly powerful motivator. If you’re feeling stuck, shift your focus to how your excess items could benefit others. Choose an area of your home that’s overflowing with stuff—maybe it’s your closet, pantry, or linen closet—and take a few minutes to assess your excess. Then, think about a charity that’s close to your heart, such as a women’s shelter. Imagine how your extra sweaters, pants, jackets, shoes, and coats could make a difference in someone’s life. Visualizing the impact your donations could have can provide the motivation you need to start decluttering. Simplify your life by letting go of excess and helping those in need.
4. Track Your Progress
When you’re decluttering a little at a time, it can be hard to see just how much progress you’ve made. That’s why it’s important to track your efforts. Take before and after pictures of each area you declutter, even if it’s something as small as your nightstand, medicine cabinet, or junk drawer. These photos will serve as a constant reminder of how far you’ve come and will motivate you to keep going. Seeing the difference you’ve made day by day can be incredibly satisfying and can help you stay on track.
5. Declutter Now So Your Kids Don’t Have To
If you’ve ever had to clean out a home after a parent, grandparent, or loved one has passed away, you know how painful and time-consuming that process can be. Many of my clients and followers have sworn they’ll never leave that burden for their own kids to handle. This can be one of the most powerful motivators to start decluttering now. Create a room-by-room, step-by-step plan to remove excess from your home so that your kids won’t have to do it when you’re gone. Not only will this help you enjoy a clutter-free home right now, but your family will also be grateful that you took care of it while you were still able. Simplify your life and bring peace of mind to both yourself and your loved ones by tackling this important task today.
So there you have it—my five tips in five minutes on how to motivate yourself to declutter, even when you don’t want to. If you found these tips helpful, please like, share, and subscribe to my channel. Also, feel free to share this with anyone who might benefit from a little extra motivation to get started on their decluttering journey. Remember, decluttering is about creating space for what truly matters and simplifying your life in the process.
Ready to dive deeper into minimalist living? Check out my comprehensive guide, the “Essential Checklists” Decluttering Workbook. It’s packed with room-specific checklists and 30-day challenges that turn decluttering into a joyful adventure. Purchase Rita’s Decluttering Workbook today and discover how a minimalist lifestyle can enhance your life in profound ways.
Tune in next week for more of my “Five Tips in Five Minutes” series. Have a great week!
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!