A simple approach to cleaning up: making your space functional again.
Cleaning and organizing a room can feel like an overwhelming task, especially when dealing with mental health challenges or life transitions such as bereavement or postpartum. The pressure to maintain a "perfect" space can make it even harder to start. However, a recent video by KC Davis offers a practical, non-judgmental method for tackling decluttering and creating a more functional living space—one that feels manageable rather than stressful.
A step-by-step approach to decluttering
Instead of diving into the chaos and feeling overwhelmed, KC Davis breaks down the cleaning process into five simple categories:
Trash
Start by gathering any visible trash and putting it into a bag. This is a quick win that can immediately make the space feel more open. Don’t take it out yet!Laundry
Collect any laundry or shoes and put them in a basket. Don’t sort or start your laundry!Dishes
Move dirty dishes to the sink. Don’t wash them yet!Items with a Designated Place
Put away any items that have a clear spot to go. If it's not perfect, that's okay—the goal is to start creating a sense of order.Items Without a Place
For everything else, create a pile or put it in a basket or box. This reduces decision fatigue and keeps the process moving forward without getting stuck on where things belong.
Why this approach works
Cleaning doesn't have to be about perfection. The focus is on functionality: creating a space where you can breathe, think clearly, and feel more at ease. By breaking the process down into smaller, more manageable tasks, the overwhelming nature of cleaning is reduced. There's no need to stress about getting everything “just right”—it’s about making the space livable and comfortable.
For anyone feeling stuck in their environment, KC Davis' book How to Keep House While Drowning, is a life saver!