What's the most effective starting point for decluttering?

The best starting point for decluttering is high-impact areas like kitchens or entryways. These areas are visible, making them the source of daily frustrations when cluttered - ideal first targets. Starting with visible surfaces means quick hits of momentum and visible results, focused on top surfaces first rather than hidden storage.

Utilize the twelve twelve twelve method for absolute first session success. Find twelve items to donate to the trash, and return twelve items to their proper homes. This creates a visible transformation in under thirty minutes, showing that change is possible immediately.

Once you have cleared off the surfaces, apply the one-in-one-out rule to help you maintain your progress. When you add a new item, replace something that already exists on those surfaces to prevent cluttering again. One simple habit applied consistently will ensure your initial efforts last much longer without large interventions.

Digital first steps also rely on the same principles. Start with the email inbox using the 321 system: three main folders (Action Reference Archive). Unsubscribe from five newsletters during your morning commute. Delete unused apps first, then offer help with cloud storage later.

The psychological payoff happens fairly quickly. One of my clients said she felt like she lost twenty pounds just by clearing her entryway. That little win contributed to her eagerness to overhaul the house completely in the coming weeks. Getting started right creates an unsustainable momentum.

Read the full article: 10 Best Decluttering Tips for Your Home