{Inside: Where to start in decluttering: Five spaces to declutter that will create momentum}
Where to start in decluttering is often the hardest question. The process can feel daunting, full of hesitation and fear. But creating ease — and even momentum — is possible when you begin in the right way. There are two simple approaches that can make decluttering feel lighter and more doable.
The first way is to start small.
I’ve said it before: the best way to lighten your space is to start small—whether that means the scope of the task, the time you spend, or both.
Instead of staring down a cluttered room, pick one corner. Instead of a whole closet, pick one drawer. That kind of permission does two things:
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It makes letting go less overwhelming.
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It creates momentum so you want to keep going.
That’s the key to making decluttering contagious. When it feels easier, you’re more likely to repeat it.
The second way is to start where there’s less fear.
Some areas of clutter feel heavy with guilt, shame, or indecision. Others don’t. The trick is to begin where the clutter is unemotional and the decisions are simple.
When you tackle these “lighter” areas, you give yourself quick wins—and a taste of how good decluttering feels. That feeling is what makes it addictive.
Five spaces to declutter that will create momentum:
1. Your handbag or wallet
Like drawers and closets, bags are easy to ignore. Empty it out, toss the trash, and return what matters. Repeat weekly to keep the load light.
2. The bathroom
Look for expired prescriptions, old makeup, broken brushes, or excess supplies. Most of this clutter is obvious—and clearing it makes the space function better.
3. Nightstand
Your nightstand should be restful, not stressful. Remove distractions—extra notebooks, tchotchkes, stacks of books—and keep only what serves you.
4. Pantry
Food clutter adds up quickly. Toss the expired, donate unopened items you won’t eat, and keep what’s truly useful. You’ll gain space and clarity.
5. Your car
Cars collect clutter easily—trash, duplicates, things that belong elsewhere. Clear it out. You’ll feel lighter, your car will run better, and you might even enjoy the drive more.
Quick, easy purges like these build momentum. And when momentum takes hold, decluttering no longer feels like a chore—it feels freeing. That’s when it becomes contagious.
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