Hi, I’m Rita Wilkins, the Downsizing Designer, and I want to talk to you today about something that many people overlook when they think about decluttering: time. Decluttering isn’t just about clearing physical space—it’s about simplifying your life so that you can reclaim time, the most valuable resource we have. 

We often think of decluttering in terms of organizing our homes, but when you clear out the excess, you’re doing much more than just tidying up. You’re creating an environment that allows you to live with more ease, more intention, and yes—more time. Time to spend with loved ones, time to pursue passions, and time to simply be

Let’s explore how decluttering can help you regain time and use it for what matters most. 

Time Lost to Clutter 

Think about how much time we waste dealing with clutter every day. Whether it’s searching for lost keys, rummaging through piles of papers, or just feeling overwhelmed by a messy environment, clutter steals our time in ways we may not even realize. 

When your space is cluttered, your mind becomes cluttered, too. You waste time making decisions, sifting through things you don’t need, and getting distracted by the chaos around you. Decluttering helps eliminate these time-wasters and gives you back precious minutes, hours, and even days. 

Reclaiming Time for What Matters 

Decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of stuff—it’s about making room for the things that truly matter. By simplifying your physical environment, you create mental clarity and free up your time to focus on what’s important. 

What would you do with the time you save from not having to manage excess clutter? Maybe you’d spend more time with your family, pursue a hobby you’ve been putting off, or simply enjoy moments of quiet reflection. When you declutter, you’re giving yourself the gift of time—time to live more fully in the present. 

How to Use Time More Intentionally 

Once you’ve decluttered and created more space in your life, it’s important to be intentional with how you use that newfound time. Here are a few ways to make the most of your time after simplifying your life: 

1. Spend Quality Time with Loved Ones 

One of the greatest benefits of decluttering is that it gives you more time to connect with the people who matter most. Without the distraction of clutter, you can be fully present with your loved ones. Whether it’s sharing a meal, having a conversation, or just spending time together, you’ll find that life becomes richer when you have more time to invest in relationships. 

2. Pursue Your Passions 

What’s something you’ve always wanted to do but never seemed to have the time for? Whether it’s learning a new skill, starting a creative project, or exploring a new hobby, decluttering can help you carve out the time you need to pursue your passions. By simplifying your surroundings, you create mental and emotional space to focus on what brings you joy. 

3. Create Space for Stillness 

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the importance of stillness. Decluttering helps create a sense of calm and peace in your home, which can translate into more time for quiet reflection, meditation, or simply being present in the moment. Time spent in stillness isn’t wasted—it’s an essential part of living a balanced and intentional life. 

The True Value of Time 

Time is the one resource we can never get back. That’s why it’s so important to be intentional with how we use it. When you declutter, you’re not just clearing out your home—you’re reclaiming time to live the life you want. You’re creating space for the things that truly matter, and that’s where the real value lies. 

I encourage you to look around your home and your life and ask yourself, “What’s taking up space that no longer serves me? How can I simplify to regain time for what matters most?” 

The process of decluttering can feel overwhelming at first, but remember: every small step you take brings you closer to a life filled with more time, more peace, and more freedom. And with that time, you can create memories, pursue dreams, and live more fully in the present. 

If you’re ready to take your decluttering journey even further, 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 take another step towards living with more freedom and abundance. 

Got 5 minutes? Check out Rita’s 5 in 5 weekly series, where I share five quick tips in just five minutes on decluttering and simplifying your life.