7 Tips to Go from Stuck to Steady

1. MIND OVER MATTER
Decluttering isn’t just about stuff. It’s about headspace. You’ll need to be intentional, not perfect. Start with the mindset that it’s a journey, not a one-day job. Expect ups and downs. Celebrate progress, not perfection.

Try this: Set a 10-minute timer and give yourself permission to stop when it rings. That’s a mindset shift in action.

2. SKIP THE BIG SORT-OUT
That mythical “one weekend blitz” you keep promising yourself? It’s exhausting - and usually unsustainable. What happens after that big effort? Things pile back up because the daily habits haven’t changed.

Instead, start small and stay small. One drawer. One shelf. One surface. Maintain that area before moving on. This is how you build a system that lasts. These micro-moments build the muscle for long-term calm.

3. CATCH THE CLUTTER EARLY
Clutter builds because we let it. So catch it before it becomes a mountain.

Ask yourself: Does it need to come into my space at all? Does it belong here? Do I want it to stay?

A five-minute reset while the kettle boils? Gold. A quick tidy while you’re on hold? Perfect. This is the quiet magic of little and often.

4. NO SHORTCUTS - BUT THAT’S OKAY
Everything you own is something you have to store, maintain, or mentally carry. If it exists, it takes up space in your life - whether you’re looking at it or not.

Decluttering isn’t about shortcuts. It’s about making choices. The less you bring in, the less you have to manage.

For example, a freebie tote bag might seem harmless - but it still takes up space, physically and mentally.

5. BE KIND TO YOUR FUTURE SELF
You’re not just doing this for now - you’re setting yourself up for smoother, calmer days down the line.

Clearer spaces mean quicker routines, easier mornings, less time wasted searching, sorting, or stressing.

Imagine opening a drawer and finding exactly what you need, without digging. That’s future-you saying thank you.

6. WATCH OUT FOR THESE COMMON MISTAKES
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to get tripped up. Here’s what I see all the time - and how to steer clear:

• Going too big, too fast
  Starting with an entire loft or wardrobe might feel satisfying in theory…until you're knee-deep in piles and totally burnt out. Instead: start small and finish strong. One drawer. One category. One shelf. Let momentum build naturally.

• Organising before decluttering
  Fancy baskets, labels, and storage solutions won’t fix clutter if you’re still holding onto too much. Avoid buying organisers for items you may not even need. Declutter first, then assess what genuinely needs a home.

• Holding onto “just in case” items
  These are sneaky - they whisper what-ifs and create mental clutter. Try asking: “Would I go out and buy this again?” If not, it’s probably safe to let go.

• Letting guilt make the decisions
  Gifts you never used. Expensive mistakes. Items with memories attached. Guilt is not a good reason to keep something. You can honour what it meant without keeping the physical item.

• Trying to do it all alone
  Sometimes we need a second pair of eyes, encouragement, or just a bit of accountability. Whether it’s a friend, a timer, or a professional organiser, don’t be afraid to get support.

7. DO THE WORK, REAP THE REWARD
It really is that simple. If you put in the time - even just 10 minutes a day - you will see a difference.

This isn’t about doing it all at once. It’s about making small, intentional choices, again and again, until your space reflects the way you actually want to live.

The more you show up, the lighter your space, and your mind, will feel.

Your home should work for you, not against you.