Decluttering your living space can feel overwhelming, but the benefits of a clutter-free home are well worth the effort. However, many people find themselves facing various holdups and obstacles when they try to clear out the clutter. In this blog post, I´ll mention some of the most common ones and I´ll give you some practical tips and strategies to overcome them, and hopefully this will help you to achieve the organized and peaceful home you wish for.

1. Stop Procrastinating!

One of the most common decluttering holdups is procrastination. It’s easy to put off decluttering tasks, especially when they seem overwhelming or time-consuming. However, procrastination only leads to more clutter and chaos in the long run. To overcome procrastination, break down the tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Set aside short blocks of time each day or week to tackle specific areas of your home, and reward yourself for completing each task.

2. Let it go!

Another major holdup is emotional attachment to possessions. Many people struggle to let go of items due to sentimental value or fear of regretting their decision later. To overcome this, try to focus on the benefits of decluttering, such as a more spacious and organized living environment, that will make your everyday life much easier. Keep a box or some other kind of container for your most sentimental objects, and use this as a limit for how much you can keep. Remember, if EVERYTHING is special and sentimental, then nothing really is.

3. Perfect is not realistic!

Perfectionism can definitely hinder the decluttering process. Some people feel overwhelmed by the idea of decluttering because they want everything to be perfect and organized from the start. However, it is a gradual process, and it’s okay to start small and make progress over time. Avoid getting caught up in perfectionism by focusing on progress rather than perfection. Celebrate small victories along the way and remind yourself that it is an ongoing journey, not a one-time task.

4. Planning & Discipline!

Not having enough time is big hurdle for many. Between work, family obligations, and other commitments, finding time to declutter can seem impossible. However, it doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing undertaking. Look for pockets of time in your schedule, such as weekends or evenings. Just 5-15 minutes of decluttering a day can make a big difference if you do it regularly. Break the tasks down into smaller, more manageable chunks to fit into your busy schedule. With some discipline, you’ll go far, but it’s also important to know (and remind yourself) WHY you want to declutter to keep yourself motivated.

To beat clutter and make your living space more peaceful and organized, it’s key to be patient, keep at it, and be ready to let go of the idea of perfection. Remember, it is a journey, and progress comes from consistent effort and taking small steps. With the right mindset and practical strategies, achieving a clutter-free home is entirely doable. If you need more motivation and guidance – you are more than welcome to subscribe to my monthly newsletter and get Ordna´s Whole House Declutter Guide, with a new area to declutter every month – click here !

/Malin