Decluttering | 13 Tips to Stop Procrastinating Today!

Photo byGetty Images

The top reason people put off decluttering their spaces is the same reason people put off other tasks they do not wish to do, in a word - Procrastination. Stop procrastinating! I know, easier said than done.

10 Tips to Stop Procrastinating Today

The first step is to think about what you plan to do. I had to train myself to do this, especially with an unpleasant task, I used to jump right into a project head first. This was not the best strategy at all and it cost me a lot in time.

Often I would struggle through only to realize there were other easier and more effective strategies available to me had I only thought about it first.

Have a clear understanding of what you want before you begin decluttering. Another thing is high expectations often lead to disappointment. Make a realistic goal and plan not a pie-in-the-sky dream.

Decision-Making

Decision-making is a factor when it comes to decluttering. If you are inclined to make quick decisions you will spend less time decluttering.

If you struggle making decisions check out this article I wrote.

• Break Tasks into Smaller Steps
  Large tasks can feel overwhelming, leading to procrastination. Break projects down into manageable small steps to make progress feel achievable or big jobs may seem scary to you.
  
  If you only have a little time to devote to decluttering start by only discarding one object each day. This is a great way for busy people to declutter. Sure it will take longer, how much are you getting done now though?
  
• Set Clear, Achievable Goals
  Define what you want to accomplish, what do you want your space to look like when you have completed your tasks?
  
  Break down your decluttering project one step at a time into clear, specific actions. This will help you focus on each small task and give you a sense of direction. Be sure to add a timeline to each decluttering session by scheduling sessions in your calendar! Don't forget to set the alerts!
  
  Without a roadmap, you will get lost!

• Prioritize Tasks
  Identify the most important tasks that need to be done in each specific area of your home and focus on them first. Prioritizing helps ensure that critical tasks are completed.
  
  You probably already know what areas in your home drive you the craziest.

Easy Methods to Stop Procrastinating

• Eliminate Distractions
  Identify and remove anything that may divert your attention from the task. This could include turning off notifications, finding a quiet workspace, or using website blockers.
  
  Before I start my work sessions I make certain to eliminate all the usual distractions, Notifications are silenced, and the dogs are taken care of. Now I have no immediate excuses to side-track me.
  
• Use the Two-Minute Rule
  If a task will take two minutes or less, do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.
  
  For me, the two-minute rule includes tidying up my workspace at the end of a session, sorting mail when collect it, and cleaning the kitchen and bathroom whenever I use it.
  
• The One-Touch Rule
  Whatever it is you are using put it away immediately when have finished with it. When you are getting dressed do you keep trying on different things? Put the items away! Immediately. No more dreaded piles of clothes!
  
• Practice the Pomodoro Technique
  Work for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break. This method helps maintain focus while also providing regular rest periods.
  
  A lot of people love this method because the 5-minute break rule offers the motivating factor of frequent breaks.

Helpful Common Sense Practices to Stop Procrastinating

• Visualize Success
  Imagine how good it will feel to have completed your tasks. Visualization is my secret sauce!
  
  When I want something I keep a vision of it front and center. Instead of doubting I will be successful I act as if I am already a rock star right from the onset. These actions always manifest the way my mind is set.
  
  Everything we do, after all, starts with a thought, so why wouldn't it?

Visualization is a great tool for a couple of reasons. Visualization clarifies exactly where in the process you are and you will know when the end is in sight.

• Journaling
  Journaling is a great way to learn why you do, and don't do!, all the things you want to get done!

• Hold Yourself Accountable
  Share your goals with someone else or set a deadline. Knowing that someone else is aware of your commitments can push you to follow through.
  
  If you have trouble meeting deadlines tagging a buddy to help keep you on track is a simple solution. Some folks hire an accountability coach, you don't need to. There are online decluttering groups and you can find all the support you need.

Declutterbuzz has a safe and private Facebook group where we all help, support and motivate each other!

• Start with the Hardest Task
  Tackle the most challenging task first when your energy and focus are at their peak. Completing it will give you a sense of accomplishment and make the rest of the tasks feel easier.
  
  I always get the annoying tasks done first, this way I can cross them off the list and not have the 'dreaded to-do-list looming ahead of me.

The Best Tip to Stop Procrastinating Today!

• Reward Yourself
  Give yourself a reward for completing tasks. When I have a task I dread doing I always reward myself with a treat, I usually leash the dogs and take them for a quick walk around the neighborhood!
  
  You may prefer to treat yourself to a special off-limits treat, a glass of wine, or a luxurious bath. Whatever decadent means to you, don't scrimp!

Decluttering does not have to be an overwhelming torture session. Having a realistic plan is key. If you only have 5 minutes a day to devote to decluttering, plan to take care of 1 or 2 items only. Plan to be less stressed out too!

If you are still procrastinating, start at Step One and try again! Know that if you want a clutter-free home, making some decluttering efforts is necessary. There are no magic bullets, just pain-free ways to declutter!

Photo byGetty Images

Marj Bates is a life long ridiculously organized declutter-er and artist. Less is more are words Marj lives by in everything she does except collecting dogs. “Dogs are like potato chips! Can’t have just one.” says Marj. Marj wonders if growing up with a fanatically clean Jewish mom means her decluttering and organizational skills are in her blood.

For more Declutter Buzz & Freebies check out our safe and private Decluttering community on our Facebook page. We are a safe and private space of like minded folks tackling this all encompassing clutter thing once and for all. No shame allowed and always a few laughs!

To see more articles like this, please like and follow me. Thank you!