Start the Year Well
With the new year here, many of us feel the urge to wipe the slate clean and embrace a fresh start. A powerful way to kick things off is by decluttering both your physical and mental spaces. Here’s how getting organised can transform your productivity and wellbeing:
- Physical decluttering
Your environment has a direct impact on your mental state. A cluttered desk or living space can make you feel overwhelmed and unfocused.
Actionable Tip: Start small. Declutter one drawer or a single surface each day. Break large tasks into manageable chunks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Time-saving benefits of organisation
Disorganisation costs you time—whether you’re searching for misplaced items or trying to prioritise tasks. A well-organised space allows you to focus on what truly matters. The famous quote by Benjamin Franklin rings true: “Every minute spent on organising saves an hour of time”
Actionable Tip: Invest in storage solutions and label everything clearly. Digitally, use apps to organise your calendar and to-do lists.
- Reduce stress and anxiety
Cluttered spaces can increase cortisol levels, the stress hormone. Decluttering creates a sense of calm and control over your environment.
Actionable Tip: Try the “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you bring into your home, remove an old or unused one.
- Improve productivity
A tidy workspace enhances your focus and efficiency. When your environment is clean and organised, your mind can better process tasks.
Actionable Tip: Use the Pomodoro Technique: 25 minutes of focused work, followed by a 5-minute tidy-up session. This keeps both your mind and space refreshed.
- Form positive habits
Decluttering isn’t just a task—it’s a mindset. Create a foundation for healthy habits that last.
Actionable Tip: Reflect on items or commitments that no longer serve you. Letting go can make space for new opportunities and goals.
- Declutter your mind
Focus on your mental clarity. Journaling, mindfulness and making lists reduce mental noise, and allow you the ability to switch off and enjoy family or recreational time for a better life-work balance.
Actionable Tip: End each day by jotting down your priorities for tomorrow. This practice clears your mind and sets a positive tone.
A decluttered space paves the way for a decluttered mind—and that’s a gift worth giving yourself. Identify one or both areas in your life—physical or mental—that could benefit from a reset. You’ll thank yourself later.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and you would like to chat to a counsellor to assist you to get into a rhythm this year – please reach out – there is no time like the present.