You are absolutely NOT alone in this. I understand, finding decluttering motivation tips that actually get you moving isn’t easy these days.
If you’re looking at all the stuff you’ve accumulated over the years and wishing you could snap your fingers to have everything organized or gone, I feel you.
I know for a fact that more and more people are starting to appreciate and embrace underconsumption. The days of buying just to buy are fading, and honestly, clutter, mess, and the constant stress of too much stuff are starting to feel exhausting.
But let’s be real, decluttering is draining. It takes time, energy, and a lot of emotional effort. If you’ve been staring at your mess, feeling completely unmotivated, this post is for you.
The good news? You don’t need to feel super motivated to start decluttering, you just need a plan that makes it easier to get going.
I’ve created an easy-to-follow 1-month decluttering checklist that will keep you motivated and on track. With simple daily tasks, you can declutter your home without the stress.
I’ve been using this checklist since January, and I keep scratching things off the list, it’s been so helpful! You can download a free copy for yourself and start decluttering today!
Here are 10 realistic ways to get yourself going (even when you don’t feel like it).
Decluttering Motivation Tips:
1. Start Small
You don’t need to declutter your whole closet in one day. Pick one thing: a single drawer, a shelf, or even just your sock pile. Starting small removes the pressure of having to do everything at once.
The smaller the task, the easier it is to get started, and the more momentum you build.
2. Set a Timer & Trick Yourself
This is my go-to hack. Set a timer for 10-15 minutes and tell yourself, I’ll just declutter for this short time. Once you start, you’ll probably keep going. But even if you don’t, 10 minutes of progress is still progress.
How to Declutter a Room in 30 Minutes Without Feeling Overwhelmed
3. The “One Item Rule”
On days you really don’t want to declutter, commit to getting rid of just one thing. One expired spice, one old T-shirt, one random charger you don’t even know what it belongs to. Doing something keeps you in the habit without feeling overwhelming.
One thing leads to another, and before you know it, you’re in a decluttering flow.
4. Make It Fun (or at Least Bearable)
Decluttering can feel boring and exhausting, so find ways to make it enjoyable. Put on your favorite podcast, tv show, or audiobook.
5. Give Yourself a “Done” Spot
Sometimes the hardest part of decluttering is dealing with the stuff after you decide to get rid of it. Set up a dedicated donation box in your home. Once it’s full, drop it off and repeat. No more piles of “to donate” cluttering up your space.
6. Visualize Your End Goal
Whenever you feel stuck, picture your space without the clutter. Imagine how peaceful and functional it will feel. You’re not just getting rid of stuff, you’re creating a space that works for you, not against you.
Imagine opening a drawer and actually finding what you need. Less stress, more calm. Keep that in mind when motivation dips.
7. Make Decluttering a Habit
Make decluttering a regular part of your routine. Set aside a specific time each week or month to dedicate to decluttering. Consistency is key to maintaining an organized home.
8. Reward Yourself
Decluttering is work, so give yourself something to look forward to. Maybe it’s a cozy coffee break, a long shower, or watching your favorite show guilt-free in your newly cleared space. Future you will thank you.
9. Get on TikTok or YouTube and Watch Decluttering Videos
Sometimes, the best way to get motivated is to see other people making progress. Watching decluttering videos can spark inspiration, give you practical tips, and remind you that yes, a clean, organized space is possible. Just be careful not to fall into a scrolling spiral, watch a couple of videos, then get to work!
10. Start Now!
The best time to start decluttering is now. Even if you only have 15 minutes, that’s enough to make a start. Remember, small steps can lead to big changes. We’ve got some momentum now.
Decluttering isn’t something you do once and never think about again. It’s a habit. A mindset. And some days, you won’t feel like doing it. That’s okay. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.
So if you’re feeling unmotivated, just start small. Set a timer, pick one thing, and remind yourself why you’re doing this. Your future self will thank you. 💛
This post was all about Decluttering Motivation Tips.
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