Motivating Factors Behind Decluttering: A Journey to a Tidy Home

Motivating Factors Behind Decluttering: A Journey to a Tidy Home

Decluttering can seem like an elusive goal, especially when you've accumulated years of belongings. But let me share my experience. If I think about it, decluttering is something I've done incrementally over years, but the real motivation came with a book that changed my perspective on possessions.

Initial Clutter and Motivations

I actually love a somewhat neat house, but it still feels lived in. Our current home, moved into in August 2019, was cluttered with unopened boxes we didn't even get to unpack. The process of decluttering started with opening those boxes, one by one. Each box had to be sorted into categories: items to put away, items to donate, and items to throw away. This systematic approach transformed the living room into a tidy space, but it still retains that lived-in comfort. The kitchen, on the other hand, quickly returns to its chaotic state, only to be decluttered a few days later.

During each move, we managed to rid ourselves of about two-thirds of our belongings. Over three years, we found another third in the boxes we hadn't opened. As a minimalist, decluttering is a breeze for me. I'm inspired by the Japanese aesthetic, where the philosophy is more culture less clutter. Minimalism aligns with my lifestyle, and the process of decluttering helps me be clearer about what I really need.

Steps and Challenges in Decluttering

The motivation for my last decluttering push was rooted in a book called A Year of No Clutter by Eve Schaub. The book led me to explore the emotional resonance behind our possessions, which was incredibly eye-opening. Another book that helped was Declutter Your Life With Feng Shui. This book offers practical tips for decluttering and organizing based on the principles of Feng Shui. Additionally, the novel Homer and Langley by E.L. Doctorow, with its portrayal of a hoarding family, reminded me of the importance of letting go.

Process and Results

Decluttering is a process that can be sporadic, with some areas of the home needing more attention. For instance, my bedroom is still looking fabulous two weeks after it was decluttered, while the kitchen becomes chaotic again within two days. The living room, however, stays organized for a longer period. It's a continuous effort, and sometimes I find myself taking two steps forward and one step back.

I've gradually been working on decluttering, and while the process is ongoing, I've noticed a significant improvement in my home's organization. Even though I haven't fully unpacked the house, I appreciate the progress I've made. The key is being consistent and not letting the clutter build up to a point where it feels overwhelming.

Now, to address a common dilemma: what exactly is not considered clutter? For me, books aren't considered clutter. Books enrich our lives and add value, so they have a special place in my home. However, when it comes to other items, the rule of thumb is if it doesn't serve a purpose or bring joy, it's time to let it go.

In conclusion, decluttering is a journey that requires patience, consistency, and a willingness to let go of possessions that no longer serve a purpose. By doing so, we can create a more peaceful and organized living space.