One of the many things that we do at the start of a new year, is think of all the ways we want our lives to be better. We contemplate new eating plans, fitness programs, books we want to read, and places we want to go.

Your mental health could benefit from improvements in any of those areas. However, decluttering will boost your mental health. Decluttering doesn’t require major life changes or any added expenses.

Chaos and clutter both in your homes, cars or workplaces can be mentally exhausting. When clutter is removed from these areas, it lightens your physical and mental load. Decreasing clutter will clear the way for a more relaxed and often times productive environment.

Simple Steps to Decluttering

To start decluttering, it is best to pick one area to focus on at a time. Don’t try to tackle your car and home at once, doing so may actually increase your anxiety versus decreasing it.  If you are selecting your home, pick just one room at a time to work on. Selecting one room or area at a time will allow you to practice your decluttering skills without overwhelming you in the process.

Begin by:

 

Cleaning:

• Removing trash and debris in order to tidy and clean your target area. Cleaning your target area alone can provide a vast improvement to your space.
• Dust all surface areas and vacuum rug’s or carpet.

 

Donating or Disposing:

• Dispose of unhealthy or dead plants, as these are unpleasant to look at and do not promote well being.
• If there is anything you no longer need or want, remove it. If a lamp is broken and needs repair remove it for repairs or dispose of it or donate it for further use.
• Declutter items on any shelving or surface areas. Do you need it? Put it in a safe space where you can easily access it. Otherwise, it goes.
• Donate any and all items that no longer serve you. Actually take the items to a donation station. Leaving piles of items or debris will not leave you feeling accomplished with this process.

 

Maintaining:

• Most importantly, make a pact with yourself that you are not purchasing anything for this space that does not meet an immediate need. This will keep you from bringing new items in that are not necessary.
• Spend a few minutes each week tidying this areas. It should actually just take minutes once you have thoroughly decluttered your space.

 

To declutter your spaces allows you to take inventory of an area, clean it, simplify it and allow yourself peace by enjoying your renewed spaces.

These small steps can be executed in areas you need them throughout the year. Your mental health will benefit from jumping into a clean car to run an errand. Or imagine the relief of walking into your home from a long day to a fresh, tidied space that doesn’t overwhelm you at first glance. These are just small steps you can take to feel more organized, energized and less anxious.

 

Pace Counseling Group is a professional counseling firm located in San Antonio, Texas. We are focused on continuously improving the quality of life for our clients and their families. Currently accepting new clients.  

To learn more, visit us at Pace Counseling Group or call (210) 481-3727.