Where to Start When You’re Overwhelmed by Clutter: A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Organized
Feeling frozen by the amount of clutter in your home is a common experience, but it can be managed with the right approach. If you’re looking around and feeling like it’s impossible to start, don’t worry—there’s a way forward. Let’s break down the process into manageable steps so you can declutter and reclaim your space.
1. Start Small: Choose One Area
Instead of tackling everything at once, pick one small area to begin with. This could be a single drawer, a section of your closet, or even a corner of your room. By focusing on one small area, you’ll avoid feeling overwhelmed and will be able to see progress quickly. Starting small also makes the task more mentally manageable.
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2. Sort by Categories, Not Rooms
A common mistake when trying to get organized is to think in terms of rooms. Instead, think in terms of categories. For example, start by gathering all your papers, all your books, or all your clothing into one spot. This helps you see how much of a particular item you have and makes it easier to sort and eliminate what you no longer need.
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3. The “Keep, Donate, Discard” Method
Once you’ve gathered a category of items, use the “Keep, Donate, Discard” method to sort through them. Ask yourself: Do I use this regularly? Does it bring me joy or serve a purpose in my current life? Be honest with yourself and let go of anything that doesn’t meet those criteria. For items in good condition that you no longer need, consider donating them. For things that are broken or unusable, it’s time to discard.
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4. Set Realistic Goals
It’s important to set realistic, achievable goals when you’re organizing. Don’t expect to declutter your entire home in a weekend. Instead, break it down into daily or weekly goals. For example, aim to spend 30 minutes each day organizing one area or category. Over time, those small efforts will add up to a big change.
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5. Use Storage Solutions that Work for You
Once you’ve sorted through your items, it’s time to think about storage. Invest in bins, baskets, or shelving that helps you maintain order. Labeling containers or bins can also make it easier to stay organized in the long run. Be mindful of your space and avoid purchasing storage solutions that might add more clutter. Keep it simple.
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6. Maintain the Momentum
Staying organized is an ongoing process. Once you’ve made progress, develop habits that help you maintain your clutter-free space. Spend a few minutes at the end of each day tidying up, and schedule regular decluttering sessions to ensure things don’t pile up again. The goal is not perfection but creating a space that feels functional and peaceful.
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Final Thoughts
Clutter can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process down into small, manageable steps can help you take control. Start small, sort by categories, and use systems that work for you. Before you know it, your space will feel lighter, more organized, and less stressful.
Remember, getting started is the hardest part, but with each step, you’ll build momentum that brings you closer to a clutter-free home.
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Realtor Stacey Donadio 