What are your things costing you?
Did you know the average home contains 300,000 items?
Isn't that bananas? Think about that for a minute. Think of the amount of energy it takes to keep track of, store, and tidy all that stuff. I'm exhausted just thinking about it.
I bring this up not to induce shame, but awareness.
I will be the first to raise my hand that I still struggle managing all the things in our home. As busy moms, sometimes all we have time and energy for is to feed, dress, and bathe our people. Amen?
So what are the benefits of decluttering?
More Space & Brain Cells
Clutter not only occupies physical space in our homes but also occupies mental space in our minds. By decluttering, you free up valuable physical and mental space, allowing for a more organized and serene living environment.
Increased Productivity
Clutter can be a significant hindrance to productivity. When our surroundings are cluttered, it becomes harder to find what we need, leading to wasted time searching for misplaced items. Decluttering helps you regain control, find things easily, and be more efficient in your daily tasks.
Stress Reduction
The presence of clutter can create a constant feeling of being overwhelmed and weighed down. Your body has an actual physical reaction to clutter and increases your cortisol levels. A clutter-free space promotes a sense of calm and relaxation, allowing you to breathe easier.
Simple strategies we use to declutter in our home:
Set a Timer: Start with short decluttering sessions to make it more manageable. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and focus on one specific area. Use this time to declutter a drawer, sort through a pile of papers, or tackle a small closet. You'd be surprised how much you can get done in such a short amount of time.
Cause for Celebration: There are two easy-to-remember times you could choose to declutter: Birthdays and Christmas. These are usually celebrations that involve more things coming into your home than out. Take the opportunity to evaluate older toys, books, or clothes that your children no longer have interest in.
Seasonal Rhythms: Anytime you are changing seasonal wardrobes is an opportunity to take inventory of your family's clothes. Think about donating items that no longer fit or are out of style. Less clothes = Less laundry. Yes, please!
One Per Month: Create a list of the areas in your home that you want to declutter. Closets, Kitchen, Garage, Pantry, Toy Area, etc. Then simply assign one area to each month of the year and make a plan of attack.
You don't have to fill 50 trash bags of things to make progress. Start small. Choose one drawer or space to declutter. You'll be surprised how good it feels to create more physical and mental space for you and your family.
I created a new FREE resource, Clear The Clutter: Your Guide to a Peaceful Home! If you haven't yet, go download it and I'd love to hear if it helps serve you.
If you are seeking more personalized support, reach out and schedule a Complimentary 20 minute consult HERE.
Always rooting for you!
Melina
Melina is the founder of Melina Kane Coaching, a Professional Home Organizing Business in Texas (servicing Austin, Cedar Park, Round Rock, Georgetown, and Pflugerville). She loves creating effortless systems that support your everyday life. She’s an Ennegram 2 and recovering perfectionist whose never met a stranger, so come say Hi! on Instagram @cultivateyourlegacy.
