6 Simple Truths About Clutter

Clutter is anything that does not support your better self. - Eleanor Brownn

#1 You cannot keep everything.

It is possible to justify keeping everything that comes into your possession, but you know that doing so would create unnecessary stress and overwhelm in your life.

You have to draw a line somewhere. You probably have already established some physical boundary with clutter. Instead of using physical space to determine how much clutter to keep, try drawing that line based on how items align with your goals and values.

#2 You are in control of your home's space and energy.

Your home is a sacred space for love, healing, and joy. Those who do not live with you should not get a say in what you choose to keep or discard.

Holding on to others' expectations isn't going to help you live a clutter-free life, so it's essential to permit yourself to declutter those internal or external expectations.

#3 It's only useful if you use it. 

There is a big difference between just in case vs. just for when. 

A lot of clutter arises from the thought that holding on to something will save you time or money down the road. But what about the physical, mental, and emotional cost of the clutter?

The next time you feel the need to hold on to something because it is useful, challenge yourself to consider what would happen if you didn't have it when you need it. How would you adapt?

#4 You will feel sadness, regret, and guilt.

It is sad that no one wants the china that Grandma so lovingly used for decades. It is difficult to realize that you spent a lot of money on a pair of shoes you only wore a couple of times. It is frustrating when life takes an unexpected turn, leaving some possessions irrelevant or unwanted.

However, these feelings do not make the items more useful in our lives. It is best to allow yourself to process those feelings, learn from the experience, then let go.

#5 Your overwhelm is someone else's need.

If it feels like too much, it is too much. Do not force yourself to live a life of overwhelm when there is someone whose life could be benefit from your abundance.

#6 You can't rescue everything.

You can be a steward of the earth while also being the steward of your own life.

It is inevitable. You will have to make the difficult decision to either throw something away or continue adding to a life filled with clutter. Do not let guilt and perfection keep you from the clutter-free life you desire. 

Give yourself grace. Do your best to consume and discard responsibly. By paying attention to how you consume, you will eventually slow the flow of clutter into your life and learn to live more intentionally.

Aimee Olson of Life Done Simply is a Productivity and Organizing Coach and is a member of the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO). She specializes in Holistic Organizing and Minimalism, Residential Organizing, Workplace Productivity, and Brain-Based Conditions.