From Zero to Hero: How to have the Motivation of a Decluttering Champion
There's no greater feeling than waking up in the morning, full of energy and excited to start the day. Trouble is, most of us don't wake up like that. I wake up most mornings a little bleary, a little groggy and a lot grumpy.
When we feel unmotivated like this, it can be almost impossible to get anything done. The effort to strap on running shoes and go for a jog becomes herculean. Just thinking about finishing that important work report is exhausting enough to have you heading back for the warmth of bed.
Many people feel this way about housework: cleaning, tidying, decluttering, organising. Their lack of motivation leads to laundry spilling from the hamper, dirty dishes piling up in the sink and old, unworn clothes gathering dust for years.
Do not fear!
It does not have to be this way. In fact, motivation is not something that we are born with, it is something we learn. When you feel unmotivated and uninspired it can be difficult to accept you'll ever feel differently, but it is absolutely possible.
Struggling to find the motivation to declutter your house? I know how you feel. Been there, done that, kept the T-shirt that didn't fit.
Finding the motivation to declutter revolutionised my life and my home. It didn't happen overnight and I am still far from perfect today, but I am happy to say that cleaning, tidying, decluttering and organising are no longer jobs I can never find the energy for.
Step 1
The first step to finding the motivation of a decluttering champion is to ask yourself why. What is the purpose behind decluttering? Are you doing this to make money to go on holiday? Are you craving a simpler lifestyle? Are you overwhelmed by the chaos of your home?
Deciphering why you want to declutter is your first and most important step to building motivation momentum. In order to build the most motivation possible, try and be as specific as you can about your goals.
I decluttered my life because I wanted to clear my physical and mental space of unnecessary stresses. You may want to declutter your wardrobe so getting dressed in the morning is easier, or declutter your garage so you can park your car in it. Keep that end-goal in sight and track each step towards it.
Step 2
Now you know why you are decluttering, it is time to start telling yourself how much you deserve it.
Psychology shows us that a lack of motivation is often caused by negative thoughts and feelings. Fear, anxiety, depression. Changing your inner voice is not always an easy practice, but reciting mantras or affirmations can help you to convince yourself that you really are worthy and capable of success. You have what it takes to be a decluttering champion, all you need is to believe in your own ability!
"I deserve my dream home and I can make it a reality!"
The more you talk to yourself in a positive, encouraging voice, the more positive and encouraged you will feel. While you're at it, try smiling - science shows it really will make you feel better!
Step 3
You have your goal in mind, kind words in your heart and a smile on your face. Now you need something to make the actual decluttering work a little easier.
I recommend creating a pumping playlist of songs that will keep you active and moving. I have a particular penchant for embarrassing 90s pop when decluttering and cleaning, but if the music of Steps isn't your thing, try listening to ABBA, a comedy podcast or upbeat jazz. Whatever you enjoy that is high tempo, energetic and doesn't require too much of your focus and concentration.
Step 4
Don't overstretch yourself. If you work yourself to the bone on a day that you feel motivated, chances are you're going to do more harm than good. To continue feeling motivated to declutter and tackle your mess, set yourself time limits. Try working for an hour, take a break and see how you feel. You can always go back if your energy is still high!
Progress over perfection. Always.
These tips and tricks are not the be-all and end-all answer to getting motivated, but I've been able to use them to find my motivation mojo on more than a few occasions and hope they will help you too!
-Claire xoxo
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