Easy decluttering tips for the self-assessed hoarder
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If having a cluttered space is a problem you face and are seeking a solution, here are easy decluttering tips for a self-accessed hoarder.
Do you always seem to have more things than space for such said things?
Are you constantly finding items you didn’t remember you had for years?
Is your space cluttered and untidy more times than it is clean?
If you answered yes to any of these three questions, then pull your seat closer. I am about to spill some tips that could help you.
Although this post would benefit anyone who wants some tips for organization, I am writing this primarily for people who struggle to keep their space organized because they have too much stuff.
We should all strive to have a cleaner, more organized space not just because it looks good but also for other benefits we can get from it mentally and healthwise.
Studies show the connection between a cluttered space and increased stress levels, anxiety, and lack of focus.
So, if you want to calm the chaos in your head a little bit, a good place to start would be your immediate surrounding.
Below are some tips and points to consider if you find yourself struggling to keep clutter out.
1. Fix your mindset/ work on your mindset concerning the things you own
The first point on easy decluttering tips for a self-accessed hoarder is fixing your mindset.
Before we jump into quick fixes and easy tips, the groundwork needs to be done if we want a shift in lifestyle that would last.
Self-examination at this point is vital.
Why do you have so much stuff? Is it a serious problem or just a bad habit?
Do you have a problem letting go of things, and why?
Do you have a shopping problem, and what are your triggers?
These problems need to be defined for you to arrive at a solution that lasts.
Accept that some habits will need change and that change itself will not come easy, but the results, in the end, will be worth it.
To make this process more achievable, make it a goal.
Write it down.
Break down that goal into smaller achievable tasks and track your progress.
2. Choose a new structure
The uncontrollable clutter around you points to the fact that your current structure or organization system doesn’t work, and you need a new one.
Make a list of what you struggle with the most.
For instance, do you have things all over the place that makes it difficult to find stuff and put them back in their place after use?
Then you will need to prioritize putting similar items together, and that simple action can bring a drastic change to your space.
Is the current storage you have not enough?
Then you would need to create more.
I am putting more emphasis on optimizing the space you already have.
If your space is small, you can get furniture that can also function as storage.
Would placing things like furniture a little differently make the flow of things a little easier for you?
Then switch things around. See what furniture placement works best for you.
Keep in mind that you need to be realistic about what works for your habits and lifestyle.
Someone who cooks a lot, for instance, might not benefit from organizing their kitchen cabinet as someone who doesn’t cook as much.
And following a minimalistic system of organizing could easily lead to frustration when you are not so minimalistic yourself.
I am not trying to discourage you from trying new things that don’t generally fit your lifestyle but emphasizing the importance of integrating any tips you are picking up with your current lifestyle so that the changes are easier to stick to.
3. Only keep things that are of value to you
This is the part you have to come clean with yourself.
You know those outfits you haven’t worn for years, and you keep telling yourself the right event would come that you could wear it to, and that hasn’t happened yet?
Or the clothes that do not fit anymore, but you keep holding on to them, hoping that one day they will?
Those clothes, as well as the new ones you keep buying, might be the reason your closet is overflowing, and you hope no one sees the chaos behind the door of your closet.
When going through the things you own, you should prioritize keeping only the stuff you like or make use of.
If they barely get any use, it is time to get rid of them.
That doesn’t include things you use seasonally, like your winter clothes.
For those items, I suggest storing them away until they are back in season.
You can put them in the farthest part of your closet, less-reachable drawers, or storage bins.
4. Resell and donate
Sometimes letting go of some things might be a little difficult because of the memories or emotions we have attached to them.
In such instances, it could be a little assuring to know that it could be of more value to someone else when you let it go.
Do not just throw items that you are getting rid of away.
If they are still in good condition, you should consider selling them on sites like Poshmark or eBay or consider donating them.
Doing this could also build a positive association with getting rid of things you no longer need, as you will be donating to a good course or getting some money for it.
This fourth point on decluttering tips for a self-accessed hoarder is crucial for motivating you to let go of things.
5. Dealing with your shopping problems
Shopping is one of those things that can bring us instant gratification, but that feeling does not last very long, and before you know it, you are back shopping again, even if you do not need anything.
We often convince ourselves with the “I might find a good deal” excuse, but how good of a deal was it if you were never going to buy the item in the first place?
Try identifying the scenarios that make you shop so much.
Do you go overboard when you go to the store with your credit or debit card?
Consider going with a limited amount of cash.
Do you find yourself shopping too much in the company of certain people?
Maybe cut down on how much time you spend with them or leave your credit card at home when you hang out and go with just enough cash.
You alone know the answers to these questions, and answering them should be easy with some honesty to yourself.
Convince yourself of the benefits you can get from not spending as much.
You can save a lot more and further invest your money or do something more valuable in the long run with it.
6. Ask for help
If you think you have an underlying problem that needs more professional help, please seek one.
You shouldn’t take it for granted just because it doesn’t seem as dire of an issue.
The condition of our environment directly affects our overall well-being, and that should be given enough attention.
If you think your problem is just a collection of bad habits that you are finding difficult to break, you can also seek help from professional organizers or loved ones that are pretty good in the area.
You need people that can point out your patterns and help you be accountable in this new journey you are embarking on.
These are people in your life that can share practical tips that they swear by with you and, if possible, help out in person.
7. Make a habit of going through stuff often
To maintain a clutter-free space in the long run, make an effort to periodically go through your stuff and repeat the tips that I have mentioned above.
If you do not need them, get rid of them.
You could also find things that you do not remember having and save yourself from spending money on a new one.
Decluttering would also free up space for more valuable things.
8. There is a benefit to simplicity
When you are starting your journey to being more organized, it would be highly beneficial to simplify things.
Simplify your home interior, furniture, your style, and your lifestyle in general.
Simplicity brings ease and airiness to your space.
If you have too much furniture, consider downsizing to just what you need to make your space a bit more open and less cluttered.
If you have too many clothes that seem all over the place, consider simplifying your style.
Bring in more neural and simple pieces that are more versatile.
Ready to face clutter square on?
There you have it! eight easy decluttering tips for a self-accessed hoarder to help you combat clutter starting today.
Making an effort to have an organized space is something I believe everyone should prioritize, as it goes a long way in influencing other aspects of our lives.
Having an organized life would make you a lot more focused and productive.
And if you are struggling to keep the clutter away, the tips listed in this post should help nudge you in the right direction.
