Why Decluttering Even a Little Can Make Such a Big Difference

Even if you don't think you have a clutter problem, sorting through your belongings may help you see that your home isn't as streamlined as you thought.  You might be underestimating the impact of clearing out even a few items.

My home has never had piles of clutter on the floor and every other surface.  There's never been a hidden room full of castoffs that would shock the viewers of Hoarders.  My clutter is just run-of-the-mill stuff that almost everyone lives with – worn out or poorly fitting clothes, extra gadgets, seasonal décor, free promotional items, unfinished projects, unread books, and piles of paperwork.

An active life might mean that some clutter will always be entering my home.  That's why I take a few minutes each week to remove the extras.  I try to be intentional about what I buy and bring in.  If I neglect the practice for a few weeks, I notice a difference in how I feel and relate to my home.

8 lessons learned from decluttering

1.  Decluttering relieves guilt and uneasiness.

Every time I look at a pile of unread books, unworn clothing, unfinished paperwork, or a neglected project, I feel pressure.  I might feel inadequate or out of control.  I question my choices: "Why did I spend money on that?"  "What made me think I'd be good at that?"  "Why do I waste so much time?"

Even if those are fleeting thoughts, when you encounter them often, they have a negative impact whether you're aware of it or not.  Experts in the Chinese art of feng shui* say that clutter represents stagnant or clogged energy, and whether you believe in feng shui or not, clutter can definitely make you feel burdened and stuck.

* This blog is reader-supported.  If you buy through my links, I may earn a small commission.

2.  Decluttering isn't wasteful.

Decluttering doesn't mean you're "throwing money away" or "tossing perfectly good items."  The real waste occurs when you store things away in a closet or a box, never to be seen again.  If you really want to avoid waste, take two steps:

• Donate or sell your clutter so someone else can put it to good use.
• Let this experience inspire you to be more thoughtful about what you purchase in the future.

3.  Decluttering doesn't make your house cold and bare.

When I was living in a college dorm room, and when my husband and I moved five times in our first four years of marriage, we didn't acquire much beyond the basics.  But once we bought a house, accumulation began.

• My clothes collection could outgrow my closet because I had another in the spare room.
• My books could spread beyond the bookshelf because I had room for another.
• I could add cute dishes and serving pieces because my kitchen had plenty of cupboards.
• That unused box of stuff that I might need someday could fit in the garage. 
• I could keep buying decorative items because what else was I going to do with that bare wall or tabletop?

I thought "cozy and welcoming" meant lots of stuff.  Of course, comfortable beds and chairs, personal photos, plants, and a few meaningful possessions will make a place feel like home.  But clutter won't do it, and neither will the latest decorative "look."  Ultimately, what makes a place homey is the relationships and activities you've nurtured there.

4.  Decluttering puts chores in their place.

With less clutter, chores and cleaning are simpler.  A clear floor is easy to vacuum.  A clear bathroom counter is easy to sterilize.  Everything you own is easier to organize, access, and put away.  Daily chores don't disappear, but they require less time and energy.  Say goodbye to the choice between dirt and drudgery.

5.  Decluttering boosts focus and productivity.

Cleaning up your physical and digital spaces will teach you what you value and how to make it a priority.  With fewer visual and mental distractions, you'll feel calmer and centered.  Your concentration will improve, letting you put your energies where they can accomplish most.

6.  Decluttering reveals more than you expect.

Before you decluttered, were you aware that you collect beauty lotions, mugs, yarn, and pretty notecards?  Did you know you have a habit of acquiring apps, e-books, fonts, and pictures of your restaurant meals?  You may be more impulsive than you thought, adding items without attention or plan.

Finding a stash of unused ties and pocket squares or spatulas and whisks may not only help you cut down on recreational shopping, it may help you uncover your personal style.  Once you declutter all the extras, you'll be able to see what truly serves you and makes you happy.

7.  Decluttering discovers space you forgot you had.

When my desk is uncluttered, I can focus on each task I do there.  When my dining table is bare, I have room for life and activity.  When I decluttered my children's toys, not only did they have plenty of space to play in their rooms, but I reclaimed space in my living room for conversation in front of the fireplace, a TV corner, and a reading nook.

8.  Decluttering is just the beginning.  

Once you know the freedom and benefits of a streamlined home, you'll want to declutter everything else – your calendar, your finances, maybe even your bucket list.  You'll gain more appreciation for your space and your time, and better understanding of yourself.  You'll realize that decluttering isn't just about getting rid of unwanted stuff.

It's about cherishing what really matters.