Progress Over Perfection: The Key to Decluttering and Organising Your Home
If you’ve ever looked around your home and felt overwhelmed by the thought of decluttering or organising, you’re not alone. It’s so easy to think, “I’ll start when I have the perfect plan” or “It has to look social media -perfect when I’m done”. But here’s the truth: striving for perfection can actually stop you in your tracks.
Decluttering and organising your home doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to start. By focusing on progress, rather than perfection, you’ll find it easier to create a home that feels calm, functional, and truly yours.
Let’s explore how shifting your mindset can make the process less stressful and far more rewarding.
The Downside of Perfectionism in Decluttering
“Done is better than perfect.”
– Sheryl Sandberg
Perfectionism might seem like a motivator, but when it comes to decluttering, it can actually work against you.
Here’s how:
Overthinking Leads to Inaction
Have you ever stared at a cluttered cupboard, unsure where to start? Or left a pile of belongings because you couldn’t decide the “perfect” way to organise them? That’s perfectionism talking – and it’s paralysing. The fear of making the wrong choice can keep you from making any progress at all.
Exhaustion and Burnout
Trying to tackle an entire house or create a picture-perfect system in one go is exhausting. When the task feels too big or the standards feel unattainable, you might burn out before you’ve even start.
The Myth of ‘Perfect’
Let’s look at the truth: there’s no such thing as a perfectly tidy, clutter-free home. Life happens. Perfectionism narrows your focus to unrealistic expectations, making you feel like you’ve failed, even when you’ve made real improvements.
Why Progress is the way forwards
“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”
– Robert Collier -
When it comes to decluttering and organising your home, progress is what truly matters. Step-by-step efforts, however small, will always get you further than aiming for perfection.
Small Wins Create Momentum
Decluttering just one drawer or clearing off one surface can feel like a victory – and that sense of accomplishment motivates you to tackle the next area. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” plan or system, start small and watch your progress build over time.
Mistakes Are Part of the Process
Maybe you donate something you later wish you hadn’t, or a new organising system doesn’t work as planned. That’s okay! Progress means trying, learning, and adjusting as you go. Decluttering is a journey, not a one-time event, and every attempt brings you closer to a home that works for you.
Adaptability is Key
When you let go of perfection, you allow yourself to be flexible. Maybe your ideal storage system evolves over time, or maybe your priorities shift as you live in your space. Progress gives you the freedom to embrace what works now! instead of getting stuck in rigid expectations.
Top Tips for Decluttering with Progress in Mind
If perfectionism is keeping you from making headway, these simple tips can help you focus on progress instead:
1. Start Small
Rather than trying to declutter your entire home, start with one manageable space – like a single drawer, shelf, or corner. Once you see progress, you’ll feel more motivated to move on to the next space.
2. Set Realistic Goals
Break your decluttering project into smaller steps. For example:
Day 1: Sort through books on the shelf.
Day 2: Tidy up the kitchen counter.
By focusing on one area at a time, the task feels less overwhelming and more achievable.
3. Use the 80/20 Rule
Your home doesn’t need to be perfect to feel functional and peaceful. Focus on clearing 80% of the clutter and organising in a way that makes sense for your everyday life. That last 20%? It’s okay to let it go.
4. Be Kind to Yourself
Remember, decluttering isn’t about getting it perfect – it’s about making progress. Give yourself a break if it takes longer than expected or if you don’t get it all done in one go.
Why Progress is Worth It
Letting go of perfection doesn’t mean you’re giving in. It means you’re embracing the process and creating a home that serves you. A tidy drawer, a cleared surface, or a more functional space might not look picture-perfect – but it will feel lighter, calmer, and more aligned with the life you want to live.
So, take a deep breath. Start with one small area today, and let progress be your guide. With each step forward, you’re creating a home that truly works for you.
If you need help getting started it’s time to call in the professionals to support and guide you through the process.