Definitive Decluttering Bible: The Ultimate Guide to a Clutter-Free Home, Stress Relieved Mind, and Overcome Anxiety in Your Life

Definitive Decluttering Bible

The Ultimate Guide to a Clutter-Free Home, Stress Relieved Mind, and Overcome Anxiety in Your Life

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Emily Harrison

Definitive Decluttering Bible

Adaptation, Cover, Copyright © 2024 ISBN OWNER

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(REGISTRATION NUMBER: DA-2024-051860)

Cover Art/Image: Created Under Commercial License from Midjourney Inc. At 08/10/2023. Terms Of Service Version Effective Date: July 21, 2023.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without prior written permission.

Edition/Version: 1/2 [Revised 10 Março 2024]

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Disclaimer: Please note that the information contained in this document is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Every effort has been made to present accurate, up-to-date, reliable and complete information. No warranty of any kind is expressed or implied. Readers acknowledge that the author is not engaged in rendering legal, financial, medical or professional advice. The contents of this book have been researched from various sources. Please consult a licensed practitioner before attempting any of the techniques described in this book. By reading this document, the reader accepts that under no circumstances can the author be held responsible for any loss, direct or indirect, suffered as a result of the use of the information contained in this document, including, but not limited to, errors, omissions or inaccuracies. Thank you for your understanding.

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CONTENTS

1. ​Introduction

1.1. ​Understanding the Clutter Epidemic

1.2. ​Benefits of Decluttering

1.3. ​The author's personal journey

1.4. ​Setting the Stage

2. ​The Benefits of Decluttering

2.1. ​The Physical Benefits of Decluttering

2.2. ​The Mental and Emotional Benefits of Decluttering

2.3. ​The Social Benefits of Decluttering

2.4. ​The Professional Benefits of Decluttering

3. ​Developing a Decluttering Mindset

3.1. ​Understanding the emotional attachment to clutter and how to let go

3.2. ​The SMART Method: An overview of the SMART method and how it can be applied.

3.3. ​The Minimalist Method: An overview of the minimalist approach to decluttering and how it can be applied

3.4. ​Overcoming perfectionism and all-or-nothing thinking in the decluttering process

4. ​Decluttering Your Home Room by Room

4.1. ​Decluttering the Living Room

4.2. ​Decluttering the Bedroom

4.3. ​Decluttering the Kitchen

4.4. ​Decluttering the Bathroom

4.5. ​Decluttering the Office/Home Office

5. ​Decluttering Your Belongings

5.1. ​Decluttering Books

5.2. ​Decluttering Clothes

5.3. ​Decluttering Memorabilia

5.4. ​Decluttering Papers

5.5. ​Decluttering Miscellaneous Items

6. ​Building New Habits to Maintain Your Clutter-Free Space

6.1. ​Creating a daily/weekly/monthly decluttering routine

6.2. ​The One-In-One-Out Rule

6.3. ​Decluttering as a form of self-care

6.4. ​Decluttering and sustainability

7. ​Decluttering for Special Circumstances

7.1. ​Decluttering when Downsizing

7.2. ​Decluttering when Moving

7.3. ​Decluttering after the Death of a Loved One

8. ​Decluttering in the Digital Age

8.1. ​Decluttering Email

8.2. ​Decluttering Social Media

8.3. ​Decluttering Photos

8.4. ​Decluttering Apps

9. ​Creating a Long-Term Plan for Decluttering

9.1. ​Creating a Decluttering Maintenance Plan

9.2. ​How to Continue to Declutter in the Future

9.3. ​How to deal with future clutter

INDEX

PREFACE

Welcome to your decluttering journey! In today's world, we're constantly bombarded with messages convincing us that we need more stuff to be happy. But the truth is, the more possessions we accumulate, the more overwhelmed we feel. This is where decluttering comes in.

In this book, we'll delve into the benefits of decluttering and how it can transform your life. From improving your mental and emotional health to streamlining your professional life, the act of letting go of unnecessary possessions can have a profound impact on your well-being.

But where do you start? In this book, you'll learn how to develop a decluttering mindset, overcome emotional attachment to clutter, and adopt effective methods for letting go of possessions. You'll find practical advice for decluttering every room in your home, from the living room to the home office. And we'll also cover strategies for decluttering your belongings, including books, clothes, memorabilia, papers, and miscellaneous items.

Once you've completed the decluttering process, it's important to build new habits to maintain your clutter-free space. You'll learn how to create a decluttering routine, adopt the one-in-one-out rule, and view decluttering as a form of self-care. We'll also discuss the importance of sustainability in decluttering and how to make conscious choices about the items you bring into your home.

This book also covers decluttering for special circumstances, such as downsizing or moving, and how to handle the emotional challenges of decluttering after the death of a loved one.

In today's digital age, clutter isn't confined to our physical spaces. We'll explore how to declutter your digital life, including email, social media, photos, and apps.

By the end of this book, you'll have a solid foundation for creating a long-term plan for decluttering and maintaining your newfound peace of mind. You'll learn how to deal with future clutter and make decluttering a permanent part of your lifestyle.

So, take a deep breath, and let's embark on this transformative journey together. You'll be amazed at the positive impact decluttering can have on your life. Thank you for joining me on this journey.

Lovingly,

Emily Harrison

Introduction

Have nothing in your house that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful. - William Morris

1.1.       Understanding the Clutter Epidemic

The issue of clutter in modern society has become increasingly prevalent, affecting millions of people across the globe. The clutter epidemic is a result of various factors, including consumerism, lack of space, and the desire to hold onto items that hold sentimental value. Clutter can significantly impact our well-being, causing stress, anxiety, and a slew of other mental health issues.

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to accumulate objects and possessions without fully realizing the impact it can have on our lives. From clothes and books to knick-knacks and electronics, clutter can quickly take over our living spaces, leaving us feeling overwhelmed and disorganized.

One reason for the clutter epidemic is consumerism. Our society emphasizes the importance of buying the latest gadgets and fashion trends, which can lead to a constant influx of new items in our homes. Unfortunately, this means that many of us end up holding onto old items as well, unable to part with them despite no longer having a use for them.

Lack of space is also a factor in the clutter epidemic. As urban areas become more densely populated, many people are forced to live in smaller homes with limited storage space. This can make it challenging to keep our living spaces tidy, leading to a buildup of clutter over time.

The desire to hold onto sentimental items can also contribute to the clutter epidemic. Many of us have items that hold special memories or significance, making it difficult to part with them. This can result in a cluttered living space, as well as an emotional attachment to items that may no longer be useful.

The impact of clutter on our well-being can be significant. Research has shown that a cluttered living space can increase stress and anxiety levels, making it difficult to relax and unwind. Clutter can also lead to feelings of embarrassment and shame, making it difficult to entertain guests or invite others into our homes.

For example, one study found that women who described their homes as cluttered or unfinished had higher levels of the stress hormone cortisol throughout the day compared to those who described their homes as restful and restorative.

Clutter can also impact our productivity and focus. When our living spaces are disorganized, it can be challenging to find what we need, leading to wasted time and energy. This, in turn, can affect our ability to concentrate and be productive, both at work and at home.

Fortunately, there are steps we can take to confront the clutter epidemic and improve our well-being. By developing a decluttering mindset and creating intentional living spaces, we can reduce stress, improve focus, and enjoy a more harmonious living environment. Additionally, by understanding the emotional attachment to clutter and developing strategies for letting go, we can overcome the barriers that hold us back and make meaningful progress towards a clutter-free life.

The clutter epidemic is a growing issue in modern society, resulting from factors such as consumerism, lack of space, and sentimental attachment to items. The impact of clutter on our well-being can be significant, causing stress, anxiety, and reduced productivity. By developing a decluttering mindset and utilizing effective strategies, we can overcome the clutter epidemic and live happier, healthier lives.

1.2.       Benefits of Decluttering

Decluttering is a process of simplifying one's life by removing unnecessary items from their living space. The benefits of decluttering go beyond just having a cleaner and more organized home. It can significantly improve your overall well-being, both mentally and physically.

Reduced Stress: Clutter can cause feelings of overwhelm and anxiety, making it difficult to relax and unwind. By removing excess items and organizing your space, you can create a peaceful and calming environment that helps to reduce stress and improve your mood. One study found that individuals who described their homes as cluttered had higher levels of cortisol, a hormone associated with stress, compared to those who described their homes as restful and restorative.

Increased Focus: A cluttered space can also be a distraction, making it difficult to focus and be productive. By eliminating excess items and creating functional, designated spaces for activities such as working, studying, or relaxing, you can improve your ability to focus and concentrate. Studies have shown that a clean and organized environment can lead to improved cognitive function and creativity.

Improved Sleep: Cluttered bedrooms can disrupt sleep and make it harder to fall and stay asleep. By decluttering and organizing your bedroom, you can create a peaceful and inviting space that promotes restful sleep. This can lead to improved overall health, as getting enough sleep is crucial for physical, mental, and emotional well-being. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a clean and clutter-free bedroom has been shown to improve sleep quality and sleep duration.

Increased Happiness: Decluttering can also lead to increased feelings of happiness and contentment. By removing items that no longer serve a purpose or bring joy, you can create a space that reflects your personal style and values. This can help to improve your self-esteem and self-worth, and lead to a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment.

Improved Relationships: Clutter can also negatively impact relationships, both with yourself and others. By removing excess items and creating functional, designated spaces, you can improve your relationship with your living space and the people who share it. This can lead to increased happiness and overall quality of life.

In conclusion, decluttering can have significant benefits for your overall well-being. By reducing stress, increasing focus, improving sleep, and increasing happiness, decluttering can help you to live a happier, healthier, and more fulfilling life. As you work through the decluttering process, keep these benefits in mind and remind yourself of the positive impact it can have on your life. And remember, decluttering is not a one-time event, but a continuous process of simplifying and streamlining your life.

One good example that illustrates the benefits of decluttering is the story of a woman who struggled with hoarding tendencies. After working with a professional organizer and decluttering her home, she noticed a significant improvement in her mental health and well-being. She reported feeling more in control of her life and less weighed down by the excess items in her home. Additionally, her relationships with her family and friends improved, as they no longer felt uncomfortable in her home and were able to spend more time with her in a clean and welcoming space. This story demonstrates the powerful impact that decluttering can have on one's overall well-being.

1.3.       The author's personal journey

In my early thirties, I found myself knee-deep in clutter, surrounded by piles of possessions that no longer sparked joy or served any purpose in my life. My home had become a chaotic maze of stuff, leaving me feeling overwhelmed and trapped. Little did I know, this struggle with clutter was about to inspire a transformative journey towards a simplified, organized lifestyle.

It all began one fateful evening when I found myself searching for an important document amidst a sea of paperwork. Frustrated and disheartened, I realized that the clutter in my life had spiraled out of control. I knew something had to change, and I embarked on a mission to reclaim my space and my sanity.

I started small, tackling one room at a time and slowly working my way through the mountains of clutter. It was a grueling process, and there were moments when I felt like giving up. However, with each item I decluttered, I felt a weight lifting off my shoulders. I began to understand the emotional toll clutter can take on a person and the importance of letting go of items that no longer served me.

During my decluttering journey, I encountered various challenges, one of which was dealing with the guilt that came with parting ways with sentimental items. I soon realized that holding onto these items wasn't preserving the memories associated with them; rather, it was preventing me from moving forward and making new memories. I learned to practice gratitude for the past while embracing the present and future.

As I delved deeper into the world of decluttering, I discovered the minimalist approach and the concept of less is more. This mindset allowed me to prioritize need over want and focus on filling my life with experiences rather than possessions. By simplifying my surroundings, I found more time, energy, and mental clarity to pursue the things that truly mattered.

One story that perfectly encapsulates my decluttering journey involves a vase I'd been holding onto for years. This vase was a gift from a well-meaning relative, but it didn't fit my aesthetic, and I never used it. For some reason, I couldn't bring myself to let it go, so it sat collecting dust in a cupboard. One day, I decided to donate the vase to a local charity shop, and as I dropped it off, I felt a sense of relief. The guilty weight of holding onto something I didn't need or love had finally been lifted. This experience taught me the power of letting go and the importance of surrounding myself with items that genuinely bring me joy.

Fueled by my newfound passion for decluttering, I dedicated myself to helping others transform their lives by simplifying their spaces. I became a professional organizer, sharing my knowledge and experience to empower others to reclaim their homes and their happiness. Each client I worked with taught me something new about the various struggles people face when it comes to clutter, and I continually refined my methods and techniques to better serve their needs.

My personal decluttering journey not only transformed my living space but also my overall well-being and outlook on life. By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to embark on their own decluttering journeys and experience the myriad benefits that come with a simplified, organized lifestyle.

1.4.       Setting the Stage

Creating an intentional and organized living space is the foundation of a happy and fulfilling life. A cluttered home can contribute to feelings of stress, overwhelm, and dissatisfaction, while a streamlined and orderly environment promotes a sense of calm, focus, and well-being. This chapter will explore the importance of creating an intentional and organized living space, and provide practical tips for achieving this goal.

The first step in creating an intentional and organized living space is to understand the purpose of each room in your home. This means reflecting on your needs, preferences, and lifestyle and designing each space to support those goals. For example, your bedroom should be a peaceful and calming oasis, free from distractions and clutter. Your living room, on the other hand, should be a welcoming and comfortable space for relaxation and entertainment. By understanding the purpose of each room, you can begin to declutter and organize in a way that supports your overall goals and vision for your home.

Once you have a clear understanding of the purpose of each room, it's time to let go of items that no longer serve you. This can be a challenging process, as we often attach sentimental value or memories to objects, even if they no longer serve a practical purpose. It's important to approach decluttering with a sense of gratitude and mindfulness, rather than guilt or fear. By letting go of items that are no longer useful, you are making space for new experiences, opportunities, and growth.

One effective method for decluttering is the SMART method, which stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This means setting clear and actionable goals for your decluttering process, and regularly tracking your progress. For example, your goal might be to declutter your living room in 2 weeks by removing 50% of the items that are currently causing clutter. By setting specific, measurable goals, you can stay focused and motivated throughout the decluttering process.

Another effective approach to decluttering is the minimalist method, which is based on the principle of less is more. This means prioritizing need over want, and simplifying your possessions to only the essentials. By focusing on the items that truly bring joy and value to your life, you can create a more streamlined, organized, and functional living space.

Finally, it's important to approach decluttering with a sense of realism and flexibility. Decluttering is not a one-time event, but an ongoing process that requires regular maintenance and adjustment. By setting realistic goals, creating a clear action plan, and embracing progress rather than perfection, you can create an intentional and organized living space that supports your overall well-being and happiness.

Creating an intentional and organized living space is essential for promoting a sense of calm, focus, and well-being. By understanding the purpose of each room, letting go of items that no longer serve you, and using effective decluttering methods, you can create a home that supports your lifestyle, goals, and values. Remember that decluttering is a journey, not a destination, and that progress, not perfection, is the key to success.

The Benefits of Decluttering

In a time of deceit telling the truth is a revolutionary act. - George Orwell

2.1.       The Physical Benefits of Decluttering

When it comes to decluttering, the benefits often extend beyond simply having a tidy living space. In fact, decluttering can have a positive impact on your physical well-being. Here are some of the most significant physical benefits of decluttering:

Improved air quality and reduced allergens: Clutter can trap dust, dirt, and other allergens, which can lead to poor air quality and trigger respiratory issues. By removing excess clutter and keeping surfaces clean and organized, you can significantly improve the air quality in your home and reduce your exposure to allergens.

Easier cleaning and maintenance: When your living space is cluttered, cleaning and maintaining it can be a daunting task. However, when you declutter, you'll find that cleaning becomes much easier and more efficient. You'll also be able to more easily identify and address areas that require attention, which can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems.

Increased functionality and value of your living space: Clutter can take up valuable space and limit the functionality of your living area. By decluttering, you'll be able to make better use of the space you have and create a more functional and efficient living environment. This, in turn, can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers or renters.

One example of how decluttering can improve physical well-being comes from a study conducted by the Indiana University School of Public Health. Researchers found that people who lived in cluttered homes were more likely to be overweight or obese, compared to those who lived in tidy homes. The study suggested that the stress and anxiety associated with cluttered living spaces can lead to unhealthy eating habits and sedentary behavior, which can contribute to weight gain.

Decluttering can also have a positive impact on your sleep quality. A study conducted by St. Lawrence University found that people who live in cluttered homes are more likely to have sleep problems, compared to those who live in tidy homes. The researchers speculated that clutter can create a sense of overwhelm and stress, which can make it difficult to relax and fall asleep.

Decluttering can have a significant impact on your physical well-being by improving air quality, making cleaning and maintenance easier, and increasing the functionality and value of your living space. If you're looking to improve your health and well-being, decluttering is a great place to start. By making small, consistent changes to your living environment, you can create a more functional, efficient, and healthy living space.

2.1.1.        How decluttering can improve air quality and reduce allergens

One often overlooked benefit of decluttering is the improvement it can bring to the air quality in your home and the reduction of allergens. According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, common indoor allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms for over 50 million Americans annually.

By removing unnecessary items and keeping surfaces clear, you can significantly cut down on dust and other allergens accumulating in your home. Dust mites thrive in cluttered environments and feed on the dead skin cells that gather on items like books, toys, and clothing. By decluttering, you can eliminate their food source and reduce their population.

Clutter also traps moisture and creates a perfect environment for mold to grow. When you have piles of papers, old magazines, and disorganized storage spaces, it can be challenging to identify and address mold issues before they become a health hazard. A decluttered space allows for improved ventilation, sunlight, and quicker identification and removal of mold.

Additionally, clearing out items that hold on to pet dander and hair can help those with pet allergies. A clean and organized living space will make it easier for you to maintain a regular cleaning schedule, which can help keep pet dander under control and minimize allergic reactions.

When decluttering to improve air quality and reduce allergens, focus on eliminating unnecessary items, especially those that gather dust or absorb moisture. Make sure to vacuum, dust, and mop regularly, and consider investing in an air purifier to further enhance the air quality in your home. Furthermore, utilize furniture and storage solutions that reduce the presence of allergen hotspots, such as bed frames with built-in storage or hypoallergenic mattresses and pillowcases that can encase dust mites.

In summary, decluttering plays a crucial role in maintaining a clean and healthy living environment by improving air quality and reducing allergens such as dust mites, mold, and pet dander. By implementing simple decluttering strategies and focusing on regular cleaning habits, you can breathe easier, reduce allergy symptoms, and enjoy a more comfortable, allergen-free home.

Consider the example of Jane, who suffered from debilitating allergies and asthma attacks, which negatively affected her daily life. After consulting with an allergy specialist and decluttering her home, she discovered that her symptoms significantly decreased. By removing unnecessary items, dust, and moisture-prone clutter, Jane and her family could enjoy a cleaner, fresher, and ultimately healthier living space for everyone.

Creating a Clutter-Free Environment for Allergy Relief

(1)  Remove unnecessary items and keep surfaces clear to reduce dust accumulation. Example: Go through your home and identify items that you no longer need or use. Place them in a box and either donate, sell, or dispose of them. This will help to eliminate dust mites' food source and reduce their population.

(2)  Vacuum, dust, and mop regularly to maintain a clean living space. Example: Create a cleaning schedule and stick to it. This can include vacuuming carpets and furniture, dusting surfaces, and mopping floors at least once a week to control dust and allergens.

(3)  Eliminate mold by addressing moisture issues and decluttering spaces. Example: Check your home for any leaks or water damage and fix them immediately. Discard any items that have been damaged by mold or moisture. Keep storage spaces organized and decluttered to prevent future mold growth.

(4)  Clear out items that hold onto pet dander and hair. Example: Wash bedding, curtains, and upholstery regularly to remove pet dander. Consider using hypoallergenic materials and investing in a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to capture pet allergens more effectively.

(5)  Invest in an air purifier to enhance the air quality in your home. Example: Research air purifiers that specifically target allergens and are suitable for the size of your living space. This will help to remove remaining irritants from the air and contribute to a healthier environment.

(6)  Utilize furniture and storage solutions that reduce the presence of allergen hotspots. Example: Opt for bed frames with built-in storage or hypoallergenic mattresses and pillowcases that can encase dust mites. This will help to minimize the accumulation of allergens in your sleeping area.

(7)  Educate family members on the importance of decluttering for maintaining a healthy living space. Example: Explain the connection between clutter and allergens to your family and involve them in the decluttering process. By working together, you can create a cleaner, healthier home for everyone.

2.1.2.      How decluttering can make cleaning and maintenance easier

Decluttering your space can lead to a significant reduction in the amount of time and effort required to clean and maintain your home. When there is less stuff to move, organize, and clean around, the overall cleaning process becomes much more straightforward and efficient.

One of the most apparent benefits of decluttering is the reduction of dust and allergens in your home. When you have fewer items, there are fewer surfaces for dust to accumulate. This means that you won't have to spend as much time dusting or vacuuming, and your allergies may improve. In addition, when your space is well-organized, it's easier to spot when it's time to clean, as dirt and grime won't be hidden by clutter.

Another advantage of decluttering is that you'll be able to keep your space tidier with less effort. When your home is cluttered, it's easy for things to get out of hand quickly, and it can seem overwhelming to try to get everything back in order. However, when you have less stuff, it's easier to put things away where they belong, and you'll spend less time searching for misplaced items. As a result, your home will stay cleaner and more organized for longer periods of time.

Decluttering can also make it easier to deep clean your home. When your space is cluttered, it can be challenging to move furniture and appliances to clean behind them. This can result in the buildup of dirt, dust, and grime, which can eventually lead to damage to your floors, walls, and other surfaces. When you declutter your space, you can move your furniture and appliances more easily, allowing you to clean those hard-to-reach areas more frequently.

Decluttering can also help you save money on cleaning supplies. When you have fewer items, you'll require fewer cleaning products, and you can buy them in smaller quantities. This means that you'll be able to use up your cleaning supplies before they expire, and you won't have to spend as much money on replacements. Additionally, by decluttering your space, you may even find that you have some cleaning supplies that you no longer need, which you can donate or sell.

Moreover, decluttering can make it easier to maintain your home's systems and appliances. When your space is cluttered, it can be challenging to access your heating, cooling, and plumbing systems for regular maintenance and repairs. This can lead to more significant problems down the line, resulting in costly repairs or replacements. By decluttering your space, you can ensure that you have easy access to your home's systems and appliances, making it easier to maintain them and prolong their lifespan.

Lastly, decluttering can help you create a more enjoyable and functional living space. When your home is clean, organized, and well-maintained, it's more comfortable to spend time in, and you'll be more likely to invite friends and family over to share the space with you. Additionally, when your space is organized, you can use it more effectively, which can increase your productivity and overall quality of life.

Decluttering your space can make cleaning and maintenance much more manageable, saving you time, money, and effort in the long run. By reducing dust and allergens, keeping your space tidier, making deep cleaning easier, saving on cleaning supplies, maintaining your home's systems and appliances, and creating a more enjoyable and functional living space, decluttering can transform your home into a more comfortable, healthy, and productive environment.

Home Decluttering and Organization Essentials

(1)  Make a list of all the surfaces in your home and identify areas where dust accumulates. Example: Walk through each room in your house and take note of all the surfaces such as shelves, countertops, and tables. Identify areas where dust accumulates and prioritize decluttering those areas first.

(2)  Evaluate your cleaning supplies and donate or sell any excess or duplicates. Example: Go through your cleaning supplies and take inventory of what you have. If you have multiples of the same item or supplies that you rarely use, consider donating or selling them to free up space and save money.

(3)  Set up a regular cleaning schedule to maintain the decluttered space. Example: Create a cleaning schedule that works for you, breaking down tasks into manageable chunks. For example, you could dust and vacuum on Monday, clean the bathroom on Wednesday, and do a deep clean on Saturday.

(4)  Reevaluate items you keep and consider whether they serve a purpose in your life. Example: As you go through your belongings, ask yourself if each item is useful, beautiful, or meaningful to you. If not, consider donating, selling, or recycling it.

(5)  Organize items by category and find a designated space for each category. Example: Group similar items together such as books, kitchenware, and clothing, and assign them a designated space in your home. This will make it easier to put things away and find what you need when you need it.

(6)  Move furniture and appliances to clean behind and underneath them. Example: After decluttering your space, move furniture and appliances to clean behind them. This will not only make it easier to keep your space clean but also prolong the lifespan of your items.

(7)  Schedule regular maintenance for your home's heating, cooling, and plumbing systems. Example: Set reminders for regular maintenance tasks such as changing the air filter, cleaning the furnace, and checking for leaks.

(8)  Invite friends and family over to enjoy your newly decluttered and organized space. Example: Plan a dinner party or game night to celebrate your accomplishments and share your space with loved ones. This will help you feel more connected to your home and motivated to maintain its cleanliness.

2.1.3.      How decluttering can increase the value and functionality of your space

When most people think of decluttering, the first benefits that come to mind are often those related to mental and emotional well-being, such as reduced stress and improved focus. However, decluttering can also have a significant impact on the physical space around you, increasing both its value and functionality.

One of the most obvious ways that decluttering can increase the value of your space