The Real Chic Life

A Step-by-Step Guide to a More Organized Space

How is everyone doing? We made it through what always feels like the longest month of the year. And while you may be looking forward to spring (I know I am) we still have a little ways to go. One of my rituals when the weather finally does turn is a good spring cleaning, but this year what I’ve decided to do with the remaining couple of months before it’s officially spring, is a winter decluttering. I thought it might be a good idea to share some of what I’ve been doing with all of you in case you’re interested too. I think most of us would agree that clutter can be overwhelming, both physically and mentally. And I believe a clean, organized space doesn’t just look good—it feels good. If you’re ready to declutter your home (and mind) here’s a straightforward approach to help you get started:

1. Start Small and Set a Goal

Decluttering doesn’t have to happen all at once. Choose one area—a drawer, a shelf, or a corner—and focus on that. Setting small, achievable goals makes the process less intimidating. This reminds me of the African Proverb “There is only one way to eat an elephant: one bite at a time.” Anything is achievable if you break it up. 

Use a timer. Set it for 20-30 minutes and declutter as much as you can before it goes off. This helps by making it fun and manageable. 

2. Sort Into Four Categories

When sorting through items, divide them into these categories:

Keep: Items you use regularly or genuinely love.

Donate/Sell: Items in good condition that someone else could use.

Recycle: Things that can’t be donated but don’t belong in the trash.

Trash: Broken or unusable items.

Quick Rule: Let it go if you haven’t used it in the last 6-12 months. A good way to do that for clothing is to turn your hangers in one direction. When you wear an item turn it in the opposite direction. At the end of the season, anything not turned may be something you want to consider letting go. I have wooden hangers like these but I am considering these space-saving ones. 

3. Follow the “One-In, One-Out” Rule

For every new item you bring into your space, consider letting go of an old one. This prevents clutter from piling up again. During a conference last fall a woman mentioned how overwhelming it had been to go through her mother’s belongings after she passed away. She said it inspired her to start employing the one-in-one-out rule. Her story really resonated with me and my husband. We both have too many things and while neither of us plans on going anywhere anytime soon, it’s still important to us to make sure we’re not holding onto a bunch of stuff we don’t need. Full transparency- George has been really great about the one in one out rule. He’s actually up’d his to one in two out, but I’m still a work in progress here. My commitment is to keep high quality pieces I will reach for over and over again and a few special things that are occasion wear too. While I may not be doing a one for one (mainly because I have spent a lot of time curating my closet) I am more mindful about what goes in and what comes out. 

4. Organize What You Keep

Once you decide what to keep, give every item a designated spot. Use storage solutions like baskets, bins, or dividers to maintain order. Label if necessary, especially for shared spaces.

5. Declutter Sentimental Items Last

It’s easy to get stuck on things with emotional value. Save these for the end when you’ve built up your decision-making momentum. One of the things I have done when I really can’t let go of an item (this doesn’t happen often) is to box it up and move it out of the closet or wherever it’s been collecting dust. It’s cheating a little, but it’s out of the way and neatly stored and labeled. 

6. Make It a Habit

Decluttering isn’t a one-time event—it’s an ongoing process. Set aside time monthly or seasonally to review your belongings and purge unnecessary items. I do a closet cleanse each season but I’m going to make my winter declutter a yearly thing. 

7. Celebrate Your Progress

Decluttering can be exhausting, so take a moment to appreciate your effort. Enjoy the calm and clarity a clean space brings.

And remember decluttering isn’t just about tidying up; it’s about creating a home that supports your lifestyle and well-being. Take it one step at a time, and before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by only the things that truly matter.

What area of your home are you tackling first? Let me know in the comments!

Until Next Post, 

Xo Tonya Parker