I have spent countless hours talking to my friends about their struggles with decluttering. They often express frustration with their children and significant others, complaining about having too much stuff, how to maintain what they have, and how others in the home have different thresholds when it comes to clutter. It’s a struggle for everyone!
Here is an article by Homes and Gardens that provides some great information on where to start with decluttering when the family isn’t on board. I was able to contribute a few tips of my own to the article. If you are feeling overwhelmed in your home and want more support with organizing and decluttering from your family, here are some additional things to consider:
1. Connect the Dots
Your family members may not realize that clutter is causing you so much stress. They may not even realize that clutter is preventing them from having the things they want. One way to start is to ask your family to write down all the problems decluttering can solve. Ask everyone to come together and share their lists. Your list may be much longer than theirs, which is okay. This helps the family understand how much weight it puts on you and helps them gain empathy. Another route is to ask your family to make a list of all the things they want and connect those dots with the clutter. For example, if getting a pet is on the list, explain that you could get a pet if you had a tidier home. This will begin a shift in mindset and get everyone on the same page.
2. Set Boundaries
If you have a family member who is not on board with decluttering, set boundaries and claim your space. Be fair, and remember that everyone gets their own space that they have to honor. Having your own space will set an example for others. They will see how you maintain it and keep it clutter-free. This modeling will be helpful for others to see.
3. Start With the Low-Hanging Fruit
Start with the family members who are on board and willing to help. The rest of the family will start to see the benefits and may begin to shift their mindset. If you share the results and outcomes of decluttering, they will see the value and joy it brings. Don’t be a know-it-all – simply share the love.
4. Clutter-Free Gifts
Start implementing clutter-free gifts, which means that you give gifts that are experiences or consumables, rather than items that will collect dust on a shelf. Here is a list of ideas to get you started.
6. Find Your Charity
Find a charity that your family cares about. This will make the decluttering process a little bit easier. The family will enjoy seeing how their donated items make an impact. This will instill empathy. Make a donation station in your home. Use a guest closet, basement, or somewhere out of the way but accessible. Use a laundry basket or large bin for items to be stored temporarily until you can bring them to your charity of choice.
