LLStyle: 5 Easy Steps to De-Clutter and De-Stress

Declutter and Destress in Five Easy Steps!

We all start with good intentions, right? A place for everything and everything in its place, as the saying goes. But life has a way of messing with us – and especially our homes. 

Unfortunately, it’s very easy to end up living in a cluttered space, and even more so if you have kids (of any size), or if you just lack ample storage. And that means trouble: A tidy-up to-do list that never goes away. And stress. 

But never fear – some simple common sense, tips culled from the Chinese art of feng shui and a little focused effort, can really make any day “Declutter Day” and get you on your way to a peaceful home.

Needs and Loves – Assess Everything

Sometimes we pay a lot for something even though it’s outlived its purpose — because of that initial price tag, we hold on to it. Or maybe a relative drops by with a big box of family “heirlooms” that someone must keep! Add in all the “thoughtful” gifts that you don’t need or never really loved, the impulse buys from flea markets and bargain sales, and all of a sudden your home has become a crowded storage unit. 

Take a moment, grab a pencil and pad, and make a list room by room of things you a) really, really love, or b) things that are absolutely essential to you and your home. Move everything else out to the garage or the curb for sorting – and removal!

Minimalism and the 90/90 Rule

You don’t need to live the highly disciplined, spartan life of a minimalist, but the 90/90 rule of minimalism can really help streamline your home. The idea is simple and easy to enact. Look at every item in your home (take your time!) and ask: has been used in the past 90 days? Will I use it in the next 90 days? Move item-by-item and put anything that doesn’t meet these criteria into a box to get rid of.

Very quickly everything in your space will have an intentional sense of purpose, plus the act of assessing everything will lighten your mental load.

Play Zone Offense to Stay in the Game

A whole house, attic, garage, basement or even studio apartment can be a daunting task for any novice declutter-er. Don’t think big picture when starting out with a whole-home declutter project. Tackle one smaller area of a room, then the room itself before moving to the next space. Checking off a room and seeing that progress keeps us motivated, and in the game for the long run. 

Get Ready to Move – But Don’t

Moving to a new house or apartment is the number one reason we all get motivated to get rid of stuff. So fake it. Pretend you’re moving in one week. To a smaller place. With no storage. Bring in packing boxes to cart old clothes, books, CDs, DVDs (tip: check out the app DeCluttr) and knickknacks to their new homes: charity shops, shelters, church raffles, school sales and online rummage groups. Make sure you move full boxes out as you go. Drive everything to a donation drop-off, mark items free at the curb, and treat the process like the clock is ticking.

Feng Shui as the Finale

Once you’re done downsizing and before you pat yourself on the back, employ a little of the ancient Chinese art of Feng Shui that balances energies in the home. You could spend weeks delving into all of the rules and reasons, but some simple, big things to start with will add order and a sense of peace to your new decluttered home. 

Maximize natural light by removing heavy drapes and blinds that you may not need. Orient every bed towards the door wherever possible. Clear your entryway for a tranquil arrival every time you return home. And add plants throughout your home for both greenery and a natural, earthy feel to lift your spirits and refresh your mood.

What are your favorite decluttering tips? Tell us — and tag us — on Facebook or Instagram at @LLFlooringOfficial and use #LLStyle.