Introduction: More Than Just a Tidy Space

It’s finally spring. The sun is shining, trees are blossoming, and everything feels renewed. After a long winter, we naturally crave a refresh—whether that’s sorting through paperwork, decluttering our wardrobes, or finally tackling that closet. But spring cleaning isn’t just about organizing your home; it’s about renewal, alignment, and creating space for what truly matters.

I firmly believe that a cluttered space leads to a cluttered mind. Physical clutter impacts our mood, focus, and overall energy. So while tidying up might seem like just another chore, it’s actually an act of self-care—reducing stress and making room for joy.

Take my entryway, for example. For months, I didn’t have a cabinet set up, which meant I had no designated drop zone for my keys or handbag. Every time I left the house, I’d be searching for my keys, trying to remember where I put my bag, and inevitably misplacing my sunglasses. But once I brought in a small cabinet and set up a catch-all tray, that tiny adjustment completely changed my daily flow. Now, I walk in, drop my things in their spot, and transition into my space without stress.

Decluttering isn’t just about removing things—it’s about creating ease and intention in your everyday life. Let’s talk about how you can achieve that same peace of mind.

Step 1: Set an Intention for Your Space (and Mindset!)

Before diving into decluttering, ask yourself: How do I want to feel in my space?

Do you want your home to feel like a cozy retreat? An inspiring creative space? A place that energizes you? Defining this intention will help guide your decisions, making it easier to let go of what doesn’t serve that vision.

Not sure where to start? Try:

Journaling prompt: What kind of energy do I want my home (and life) to hold this season.

Visual inspiration: Create a Pinterest board and save photos that resonate with you. Then, reflect: What draws you to these images? Do they feel calming, joyful, airy? Let that guide your decluttering process.

Step 2: Start Small to Build Momentum

Decluttering can quickly spiral into chaos—ever dumped your whole closet onto the floor and instantly regretted it? To avoid overwhelm, start small. Pick a manageable area, like a single drawer, your nightstand, or even your phone’s photo gallery.

A quick win builds momentum, and consistency matters more than trying to tackle everything at once.

I’m not here to tell you to go full minimalist or part with sentimental items, but I do believe everything in your home should be either:

1. Functional (it serves a purpose)

2. Beautiful (it brings you joy)

If something doesn’t fit either category, it’s time to reconsider its place in your space.

Step 3: Use the “Keep, Release, Rehome” Method

Letting go can be hard—whether it’s guilt over a pricey purchase, a gift from a friend, or an item tied to an old version of yourself. That’s why I like to use a mindful approach to decluttering:

• Keep: What actively supports the life you’re building?

• Release: What no longer aligns? Let go with gratitude.

• Rehome: Donate, sell, or repurpose instead of tossing.

I get the struggle. I used my last iPhone until it literally wouldn’t charge anymore. My TV sat on my coffee table for years instead of on a proper console because “it worked.” But at a certain point, I had to remind myself: I deserve a functional space that fully supports me. And so do you.

Reframing decluttering as an act of self-worth—rather than deprivation—can make all the difference.

Step 4: Address Digital & Mental Clutter

In today’s world, clutter isn’t just physical. Our digital spaces can be just as overwhelming—whether it’s an overflowing inbox, never-ending notifications, or a cluttered desktop.

Digital decluttering ideas:

✔ Social media: Unfollow/mute anything that drains your energy.

✔ Emails: Unsubscribe from promotions or newsletters that no longer serve you.

✔ Files & photos: My rule? Every document belongs in a folder. A clean desktop = a clear mind.

✔ Apps: Delete anything that’s just taking up space.

Mental decluttering practices:

If you feel mentally overloaded, try:

• Journaling: A stream-of-consciousness brain dump can work wonders.

• Guided meditation: Great if your mind tends to wander.

• Quarterly reset: Reflect on what you’re leaving behind and what you’re carrying forward.

Step 5: Create a System to Maintain Clarity

Decluttering isn’t a one-time event—it’s about creating sustainable habits. Instead of waiting until things get overwhelming again, build in small reset moments to keep your space aligned with your vision.

A few ideas:

• 5-minute evening reset: Tidy up before bed so you wake up to a fresh space.

• Morning inbox check-in: Keep emails under control.

• Monthly refresh day: A set time to declutter and realign your space.

And most importantly: Give yourself grace. Some weeks, life will get busy, and clutter will creep back in. That’s okay. What matters is having systems in place to bring things back to balance.

Conclusion: Making Space for What Truly Matters

At the heart of all of this, decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things—it’s about creating peace of mind. When you clear the excess, you make space for joy, creativity, and alignment.

So, what’s one small way you can “spring clean” your life today?

Drop your decluttering wins or mindset shifts in the comments, or share with me on Instagram at @mkinthemoment.

And stay tuned—next week, we’re diving deep into digital decluttering.

Mindfully,
MK