Top tips for having a clear out

Having a clear out of your belongings can be incredibly refreshing, both for your space and your mind. Decluttering your home helps you feel more organised and can boost your mood. Here are some tips to get started and why it’s worth doing:

1. Start small: begin with one area, like a drawer or a cupboard. Tackling everything at once can feel overwhelming, so breaking it down makes it more manageable.

2. Sort into piles: make three piles: “Keep,” “Charity Shop/Sell,” and “Throw Away.” If you haven’t used something in the past year, it might be time to let it go.

3. Be realistic: sometimes we hold onto things for sentimental reasons, but it’s important to decide if they’re truly serving you. Keep what matters most and release items that no longer have a place in your life.

4. Stay focused: set a timer for 15-30 minutes so you don’t get distracted. Clearing out is easier when it feels like a task with a clear end.

5. Celebrate progress: once you finish an area, enjoy the sense of accomplishment and the clear space you've created.

Clearing out helps you feel more organised because you know where everything is and aren't surrounded by clutter. It also has a positive impact on your mental health - less mess often means less stress. Letting go of unnecessary items can free up mental space and help you feel more in control of your environment. Plus, donating or selling things you no longer need can make you feel good about giving them a second life elsewhere.

In the end, a tidy space leads to a clearer mind and a lighter, more positive outlook!