10 Questions That Make Decluttering Easier

Decluttering can be a daunting task and it can be hard to know where to begin.

However, by simply asking ourselves the right questions, we can make the process more manageable and less overwhelming.

To help, here are ten questions we can use to evaluate our belongings and make quicker, more informed decisions about what to keep and what to let go of.

So, if you’re ready to simplify your life and declutter your home, let’s get started!

10 Questions You Can Ask to Make Decluttering Easier

1. Do I need this item?

The first question you should ask yourself when decluttering is, “Do I need this item?” If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go. It’s essential to remember that you don’t have to keep something just because you once thought it was essential. If it’s not serving a purpose in your life right now, it’s time to let it go.

2. Have I used it in the last six months?

If you haven’t used an item in the last six months, chances are you don’t need it. Whether it’s a piece of clothing or a kitchen gadget, if you haven’t used it in half a year, it’s likely just taking up valuable space in your home.

3. Does it bring me joy?

Marie Kondo popularized the idea of asking yourself, “Does it bring me joy?” when decluttering. If an item doesn’t spark joy in your life, it’s time to say goodbye. Only keep things that bring you happiness and serve a purpose in your life.

4. Can I find this information or item elsewhere?

In today’s digital age, we often hold onto items because we fear we’ll never find that information or item again. However, most things are available online or in a store. If you’re holding onto something for this reason, consider letting it go and trusting that you can find it again if necessary.

5. Will I use it in the future?

If you’re holding onto something because you might use it in the future, ask yourself realistically if you will. If you can’t see yourself using it in the next six months or it’s easy to replace if you do, it’s time to let it go. Holding onto items that you might use in the future creates clutter and stress in your home.

6. Can I borrow or share this item?

If you have something that you don’t use often, consider sharing it with a friend or neighbor. This way, you can still access the item when you need it, but it doesn’t take up space in your home.

7. Does it fit my current lifestyle?

Our lives change, and so do our needs. If you have items that no longer fit your current lifestyle, it’s time to let them go. This might be a collection of books that you once loved but no longer read, or clothes that no longer fit your style.

8. Is it broken or damaged?

Holding onto broken or damaged items is not practical. If you’re not going to fix it, it’s time to let it go.

9. Am I keeping it out of guilt or obligation?

Sometimes we hold onto items out of guilt or obligation, such as gifts we didn’t like or items passed down from family members. However, keeping items out of guilt or obligation creates clutter and stress in our homes. Remember, it’s okay to let go of things, even if they were given to us with love.

10. Am I only keeping it to avoid regret?

Finally, ask yourself if you’ll regret getting rid of the item. While it’s okay to keep things that hold sentimental value, remember that memories live in our hearts, not in our possessions. Holding onto everything out of fear of regret creates clutter and stress in our homes.

Decluttering can be tough, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

By asking yourself all ten of these questions, you can approach decluttering with a more thoughtful and intentional mindset.

As always, remember that decluttering is not about getting rid of EVERYTHING you own, but about creating space for the things that truly matter in your life. So take your time, be patient, and trust the process.

You’ve got this!