Recently my daughter and I tackled the linen closet in my laundry room and cleared out everything we no longer needed. I was both surprised and embarrassed by how much was just taking up space. We ended up tossing about six garbage bags filled with flat, worn-out pillows and grimy linens. Looking at all that stuff, I kept asking myself: why was I holding on to so much?
Even more surprising was discovering how many usable items we already had. I had been convinced I needed new linens, but once the closet was emptied and sorted, it was obvious we already owned plenty of sheets and pillowcases. The problem was that the clutter had hidden what was there.
Here’s the real secret to getting organized:
When we feel overwhelmed and think we need to get better organized, the first step is often to declutter.
Fewer items make it easier to find what you need.
With less to manage, you’ll spend less time cleaning and maintaining things.
When you own less, you’re less likely to buy unnecessary replacements that only add to the clutter.
A smaller, curated collection means you’ll enjoy the items you keep more.
And the less you own, the less organizing you actually have to do.
Decluttering may be the least fun and most stressful part of organizing, but it’s also the most important and the most rewarding.
Ready to get started? Find a simple Decluttering Calendar and straightforward tips to begin your journey to a neater home.
Be sure to check out my books on organizing!
Simple Organizing – click to order
Make Room for What You Love {Your Essential Guide to Organizing and Simplifying} – click to order
What types of clutter most overwhelm you in your home?