Decluttering your space doesn’t have to be overwhelming or stressful. Lots of articles on the internet provide advice about ridding your home from all the extra, unused stuff by suggesting long lists of rules you “should” follow. If you feel like these rules are silly or trivial and fall short of really making a difference, then read on. Here’s a fresh take on becoming clutter-free. We call it Gentle Decluttering. By taking a calm, intentional approach to gently declutter, you can create a home that feels lighter, more functional, and aligned with your goals and values. No outdated rules or gimmicks, just five simple steps to unburden your space and mind.

1. Start Small and Specific

Looking at an entire room which needs to be decluttered can be so overwhelming that you immediately walk out and decide to watch TV instead. This is completely normal. You’re not lazy and it’s not your ADHD. Your brain and body are trying to protect you from all the stress in that room and your “fight or flight” instincts take over. It’s just too much to process. But, don’t lose hope. There is a way to be successful.

Instead of tackling an entire room, choose one small area to focus on, like a single drawer, shelf, or corner. This makes the process feel manageable and sets you up for success over time. Decluttering marathons don’t work for very many reasons. Set a timer for 15–30 minutes and stop when it goes off. Spend a few minutes straightening the area and call it a day. Reward yourself well because you deserve it. Small wins build momentum! The bonus: if your brain thinks there is a reward in this process, it will crave it. This causes the brain to form a habit. Before you know it, decluttering will feel natural, easy, and rewarding. Your brain will start working with you instead of against you.

2. Sort Into Categories

After selecting a specific area to work in, the next step in the gentle decluttering process is to sort items into categories. Have clearly labeled boxes or bags for each category to stay organized as you go.

• Keep: Items you use and love.
• Donate: Items in good condition that someone else can use.
• Recycle: Items that can’t be donated but can be responsibly recycled.
• Trash: Items that are no longer usable.
• Other Room: Items that belong in another room in your home.

Keep sorting items quickly and trust your instincts. Second guessing your decisions or debating yourself with regards to keeping an item only makes the process longer and more tough emotionally. When your pausing on an item, consult step 3.

3. Focus on Function and Feelings

I advise my clients trust the first category they think of when gently decluttering. Usually, it’s the correct choice. If they get stuck on an item for any reason, then we use these powerful questions to help with the decision.

• Does this item serve a purpose or make my life easier?
• Is this item purely a reflection of my past or does this item align with the life I want to create?
• How does this item make me feel?

Items which serve a purpose are usually keepers. The same goes for things which align with the life you are creating. Ones that you identify as part of the past are easier to declutter if you can find another storage solution which requires less space or if you can find a use for it. Think of photographing your grandmother’s figurine collection instead of keeping all 250 of them.

Finally, anything which makes you feel guilt, upsetment, shame or any other negative emotion should be removed from your space immediately. There is absolutely no reason to keep anything that you associate with a negative experience or time in your life. It doesn’t help you realize your goals and aspirations. Releasing these items, no matter how much they are worth, is like being able to take a big, deep breath after being underwater. It’s freeing to shed the weight of everything keeping you down and lowering your vibe. Gently declutter to let all of that nonsense go…. now!

4. Let Go and Gently Declutter

Decluttering can be emotional, especially when items have sentimental value. Most of the time, I find my clients are able to easily declutter sentimental items after talking about the history behind them. Once the story is heard and acknowledged, it’s easier to separate from the item. Be kind to yourself and honor the memories associated with an item before you decide to let it go.

Honoring memories can be done in just a few moments. Grab your phone and take a pic. Better yet, video yourself or a family member talking about why the item is so special while showing it off. This makes a way better memory in the years to come and preserves your story for generations. After all, stuff breaks and gets lost all of the time. It’s easier to store and share a digital file than maintain physical objects.

5. Celebrate Your Progress

This step is essential. Don’t skip it. Every small victory counts! Take a moment to admire your work and enjoy the clarity and calm you’ve created. Reward yourself with a relaxing activity, like a cup of tea or put your feet up while reading a magazine. Indulging in a simple pleasure and thanking yourself for your time and effort will make it easier to return to gently declutter again.

Final Thoughts

Decluttering isn’t about perfection or minimalism. It’s about creating a space that supports your well-being and reflects your values. By approaching the process with ease, you can make meaningful progress without feeling overwhelmed.

Ready to start?

 The O2E Savvy Squad is a positive, non-judgemental community working together to gently declutter and organize our spaces (physical and digital). Join us for Gentle Decluttering, a 1-hour group coaching session every Tuesday at 7:30am, Wednesday at 12:00pm, and the 2nd Friday of the month at 7:30pm. We come together to focus, work together, and get the most done with our time while getting guidance and support.

Gentle Decluttering is your chance to have a professional organizer assist you with you toughest job without having to let anyone into your personal space. As a bonus, participants receive a free downloadable decluttering guide and access to an online community for continued support and motivation.

What’s the first spot you’re planning to declutter? Share your goals or progress in the comments!