Decluttering your apartment can be a fun and refreshing experience that will leave you feeling lighter and more energized. As the months get colder, Winter is a great time to declutter whilst you spend more time at home. It may seem overwhelming at first, but with the right attitude and approach, you can transform your living space into a haven of tranquillity and calm.
1. Set realistic goals
Before you start, decide on what you’re trying to achieve and set realistic goals for yourself. Do you want to declutter just one room, or do you want to tackle the entire apartment? Are you looking to get rid of a few items, or do you want to do a complete overhaul? Be realistic about your goals, and break them down into smaller, achievable steps. This will make the decluttering process less overwhelming and more manageable.
2. Make a plan
Once you’ve set your goals, make a plan. Write down your plan of action, which areas do you want to tackle first and allocate time for each task. This will help you stay on track and ensure that you don’t get distracted or overwhelmed. If you’re not sure where to start, try decluttering the areas that you use most frequently, such as your bedroom or living room.
3. Start small
Don’t try to declutter your entire apartment in one day. Start small, whether it is one drawer, one closet or one shelf and work your way up. This will help you build momentum and make the process feel less daunting. Plus, you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment after each small task, which will motivate you to keep going. Ensure you finish each area before starting a new area, otherwise you will be overwhelmed by all the “stuff” surrounding you.
4. Get rid of the things you don’t need
As you declutter, be ruthless about getting rid of things you don’t need. This may be difficult but it is the most important part. Ask yourself if you’ve used the item in the past year, or if it has sentimental value. If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go. Have three bags ready to separate your pile into donations, selling and recycling items that are in good condition, and a separate bag for rubbish. Although it may sound daunting, emptying your spaces before decluttering is the easiest way to easily see everything, as well as cleaning everything as you go.
5. Organize your space
Once you’ve decluttered your apartment, it’s time to re-organize your space. Use storage bins, baskets, and shelves to keep your belongings neat and tidy. Group items together by category, such as books, clothes, or kitchenware. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your space clutter-free. Packing away your summer clothes and accessories when it’s time to whip out the boots and coats is a great way to create more wardrobe space and access your clothes easily.
6. Maintain your space
Finally, make a habit of maintaining your clutter-free space. Set aside a few minutes each day to tidy up, put things away, and get rid of items that you no longer need. This will help you stay organized and prevent clutter from building up again.
Decluttering your apartment can be a fun and rewarding experience and is a great way to reset and start fresh in the middle of the year. The mental health benefits of decluttering are infinite, from boosting your mood to enhancing productivity and providing a peace of mind.
