Spring is an excellent time when days are longer, and flowers bloom. Cleaning out old drawers can turn from a chore into an exciting task. This season urges us to eliminate what we no longer need and welcome the new. I completely love this idea!
The initial thought of decluttering overwhelms me, just like it probably overwhelms you. Like, where do you even start? Between work, remembering if today is trash day, and making that same chicken recipe for the fifth time this month, organizing your sock drawer doesn’t scream “priority.” But here’s the thing: Beginning the process transforms your cleaning from mere organization to a stress-reducing journey that reveals a more uplifting home atmosphere and a refreshed version of yourself. Grab your coffee (or tea, or if you prefer a mimosa—I won’t judge) and let’s work through this spring cleaning checklist together. When you clear out space in your home, you create opportunities for what truly holds value to you.
- Start Small, Dream Big
Most people find it unrealistic to transform their homes using Marie Kondo’s method in a single weekend. Closet organization becomes a lower priority when binge-watching Netflix shows and examining my cat’s latest laptop-sitting habit.
My advice? Start small—like, super tiny. Begin your decluttering journey by organizing one drawer, shelf, or purse. How is it possible that receipts breed so rapidly? The secret is momentum. The beautiful organization of a drawer will trigger a dopamine boost that inspires you to consider organizing the bathroom cabinet before you find yourself examining your closet with a professional organizer’s confidence.
- The Joy of Letting Go
Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way: Decluttering involves eliminating unnecessary items to create room for happiness. You’ve been holding onto that sweater because you think you’ll wear it after losing weight someday. Are the craft supplies intended for specific projects you are sure you’ll start? The books you’ll “eventually” read? These items dominate your physical space and also take up valuable emotional space.
Examine each possession to determine whether it brings joy or serves a meaningful purpose. (Thanks for that one, Marie!) This step requires you to express gratitude for its contribution before discarding it. Donate, recycle, or toss—whatever feels right. I was surprised by the feeling of freedom I experienced when discarding my decade-old collection of “just in case” cords.
- Create Zones of Calm
After clearing out clutter, plan how you will use your space. Would the awkward spot in the living room be suitable for a reading corner? Can your kitchen counter transform from a pile of mail into a functional food preparation space?
By assigning different parts of your home to particular functions, your living space will grow from a cluttered storage area into a peaceful sanctuary. Believe it or not, I used to dump unfolded laundry on my couch, but it became a place to have family and friends over. Revolutionary, I know.
- Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
Let’s get one thing straight: decluttering isn’t a one-and-done affair. Decluttering requires continuous practice throughout life as you choose which items deserve space in your home and life. There will be days when you transform into a tidying whirlwind but also days when you toss a sock towards the hamper and consider it a victory. Both are valid.
Remember that viral before-and-after cleaning TikTok? Yeah, real life isn’t like that. Declining progress that happens in bursts should feel completely acceptable. During last spring’s attempt to declutter my closet, everything ended up on my bed while I ordered food and slept on the couch. This year, I’m wiser—I have smaller goals and more significant celebrations.
- Bring Life Into Your Space
Now for the fun part: bringing some spring magic indoors. Unblock the windows and allow fresh air to sweep away the stagnant winter atmosphere. Bring fresh flowers or plants into your space even if you struggle to maintain greenery.
Eliminating clutter makes room for fresh energy to flow into your space. You could finally hang up that artwork, which has been leaning against your wall for months. Or rearranging furniture to create better flow. After decluttering, I enjoy creating sensory experiences with items like new candles or soft blankets and music through speakers to complete the clean space.
- Pause, Reflect, Begin Again
During your decluttering process, take time to reflect on what starting anew means for you at this moment. Does your fresh start include creating more time to spend with loved ones? Pursuing a passion project? Finding peace in your environment? Utilize this reset opportunity to make your space reflect your personal beliefs and future goals.
During last year’s decluttering,, I discovered an old journal that revealed that I had listed identical goals for three consecutive years. This moment of clarity enabled me to distinguish my true priorities from what I believed I should prioritize. A tidy environment also provides mental clarity.
- Keep the Momentum Flowing
A clutter-free home needs sustained effort beyond just an annual cleaning session with your vacuum cleaner. Build tiny habits into your routine—ten minutes of tidying before bed, the “one in, one out” rule for new purchases, or my personal favorite: The “touch it once” principle suggests handling mail immediately when you pick it up to avoid turning your counter into a cluttered dig site.
Are you prepared to start your spring cleaning journey? I stand alongside you as I sort through my piles and imagine what could be. We will build spaces that radiate lightness and hope while exuding brightness. Clearing clutter creates space to pursue our genuine desires and live our intended lives.
Let’s embark on new beginnings as we organize one drawer at a time. You’ve got this!
