Decluttering: Timing is Everything

You did it—you’re finally ready to tackle that clutter (yay!). You’re excited, you have gumption, and you’re ready to get to work.

But wait!

Your enthusiasm is great, but it’s not enough.

In order for a decluttering session to be successful, it’s very important to think about the timing of your project. Select an ideal time to get it done. When you choose to declutter will make or break your success.

Timing is everything.

In the last blog, I went over 2 common effects of decluttering and 3 steps to prepare for them. So, I know slowing down for a few more pre-project planning steps might not sound like something you want to take the time to do—especially now that you’re ready to tackle that clutter. However, I promise spending this extra planning time will allow you to:

• make the proper arrangements for uninterrupted time for the project

• have a specific and dedicated time written on your calendar for the project

• allow you to move quicker and easier through the project

• be proud of the commitment you’ve made and work you’ve put into the project

Carve Out Time for Decluttering in 3 Simple Steps

STEP 1

If you read the last blog, you should already have a list of all the cluttered areas—both big and small—that need to be tackled in your home. Examine your list and find the area that will make for the smallest project. Examples of great first choices would be a drawer, small cabinet, or shelf.

It may be tempting to choose the largest project, but I urge you to restrain yourself. When I work with my clients, we always choose the area(s) that are the biggest pain points for them, but I do not recommend everyone begin this way. I am able to come in and take a majority of the weight off the process, which allows my client to feel the success of decluttering a large area much quicker.

So, stick to smaller projects; they will give you more momentum. After a few small projects, you will begin to declutter more quickly, feel encouraged, and graduate to larger projects with greater ease and less overwhelm.

STEP 2

Look through your calendar and find a time where you can block off 2 hours dedicated only to this small project. Two hours may seem like a long time—and it may seem overwhelming to consider setting aside this time in your very busy life—for such a small project, but it will pay off. Planning buffer time will make sure you push through the more difficult parts of decluttering and finish well.

And the truth is, you don’t have time to not do this. Clutter surprisingly makes its way into every area of our lives; impacting our physical, mental, and emotional wellness. Just making the decision to do it and schedule it on the calendar is the first step to being able to experience joy and relief.

STEP 3

Plan for any interruptions that may arise during that dedicated 2-hour time frame. This includes phone calls, text messages, visitors, pets, and yes…even precious children. The fewer interruptions you have, the better. It takes a huge amount of mental effort to deal with interruptions and then try to refocus on the task at hand.

Some considerations might be:

• Let family and friends know you’ve blocked this time off and will not be answering your phone.

• Have your phone in airplane mode or leave it in another room.

• Ask someone to watch your pets during this time.

• Have your spouse plan an outing with the kids.

• Have the kids spend the afternoon at grandma and grandpa’s house.

• Plan some engaging activities for the kids and let them know you’ll be busy.

• Turn off any unnecessary alarms, noises, the television, etc.—anything that could be a distraction to the project.

Now that we’ve talked about when and how to set aside time declutter, next time I’ll go over when not to declutter. Stay tuned!