Why Decluttering feels so hard - And how to make it easier
Why Decluttering feels so hard - And how to make it easier
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March 13, 2025 - Kristina Pinkerton
Have you ever found yourself staring at a box of old birthday cards for an hour, unable to decide whether to keep or toss them? Or maybe you’ve picked up the same sweater five times, only to put it right back in the donate pile—and then take it out again? Welcome to decision fatigue, my friend. It’s the sneaky, energy-draining culprit behind why decluttering can feel so overwhelming.
What Is Decision Fatigue (and Why Does It Matter When Decluttering)?
What Is Decision Fatigue (and Why Does It Matter When Decluttering)?
Every day, we make about thousands of decisions. That’s right—thousands of tiny (and not-so-tiny) choices, from what to eat for breakfast to whether we really need another storage bin from Target (spoiler: the answer is no).
Decision fatigue happens when our brains get overloaded from making so many choices, leading to slower thinking, impulsive decisions, or complete shutdown mode.
When decluttering, every single item demands a choice:
● Keep or toss?
● Donate or sell?
● Store in a bin or put on a shelf?
● Would I regret getting rid of this?
● Why do I even own this??
Sound familiar?
It’s no wonder decluttering feels like running a mental marathon! The more decisions we make, the harder it becomes to make good ones—especially if we’re already tired, hungry, or stressed. But don’t worry! As a professional organizer, I’ve got some tried-and-true strategies to help you break through decision fatigue and finally clear that clutter with confidence.
How to Beat Decluttering Decision Fatigue
How to Beat Decluttering Decision Fatigue
1. Make the Easy Choices First
1. Make the Easy Choices First
Not all decisions are created equal. Start with the no-brainers—trash, broken items, or things you KNOW you don’t need. This builds momentum and saves your mental energy for tougher calls (like what to do with that sentimental-but-dusty collection of concert T-shirts).
2. Limit Your Choices
2. Limit Your Choices
Too many options lead to analysis paralysis. Instead of thinking about all the places an item could go, narrow it down: Keep, Donate, or Trash. That’s it. When you’re decluttering, you’re simply sorting through the items — you aren’t organizing yet so save those decisions for later.
3. Declutter in the Morning
3. Declutter in the Morning
Our brains are sharper earlier in the day, so tackle decluttering when you have the most mental energy. Save mindless tasks (like folding laundry or wiping down shelves) for later when decision fatigue starts creeping in.
4. Stick to a Decluttering Plan
4. Stick to a Decluttering Plan
Decision fatigue is worse when we don’t know where to start. Create a simple system before you begin:
● Pick a room or category (clothes, books, kitchen gadgets)
● Set a time limit (30 minutes to an hour is a great start!)
● Use a checklist to track progress and avoid getting sidetracked
5. Make Guidelines for Yourself
5. Make Guidelines for Yourself
Give yourself guidelines to speed up decisions. Some ideas:
● “If I haven’t worn it in a year, donate it.”
● “If it’s expired, toss it.”
● “If I wouldn’t buy it again today, let it go.”
Rules remove the emotional guesswork and make decluttering so much easier.
6. Take Breaks & Fuel Your Brain
6. Take Breaks & Fuel Your Brain
Decluttering can be surprisingly exhausting. Stay hydrated, eat a snack, and step away when you need to. Spending time outside in natural light and fresh air gives your brain a boost, plus movement helps reduce stress. When you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a quick walk around the block to reset your mind and make tough decisions feel less daunting.
7. Don’t Aim for Perfection - It doesn’t exist!
7. Don’t Aim for Perfection - It doesn’t exist!
No home is perfectly organized. Instead of obsessing over making the “right” decision for every item, aim for progress. A decluttered home that’s 80% organized is way better than a chaotic space stuck at 0% because you’re overthinking every decision.
Final Thoughts: Make Decluttering Easier on Yourself
Final Thoughts: Make Decluttering Easier on Yourself
Decision fatigue is real, but you don’t have to let it derail your organizing goals. By simplifying choices, working with your natural energy levels, and giving yourself grace, you can clear the clutter without burning out.
So, grab a trash bag, turn on your favorite playlist, and take it one decision at a time. Start small, trust yourself, and remember: every item you let go of is one step closer to a home that feels lighter and more peaceful.
Don’t forget — if you’re struggling with all those decisions, it may be time for us to work together! One of my specialties is helping you navigate ALL those decluttering decisions. Contact me for your free virtual consultation and you’ll know if it’s right for you!
Happy Decluttering,
Kristina
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