Where to Start if You’re Overwhelmed
If you’re staring at clutter and thinking “I don’t even know where to begin,” you’re not lazy, broken, or failing. You’re overwhelmed and you are not alone, that’s a very human response.
Decluttering isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing one small, manageable thing that creates momentum.
Stop looking at the whole house or the entire project.
Overwhelm comes from looking at everything at once.
Instead of: “I need to declutter my home”
Shift to: “I will declutter one small area today”
Good starting spots:
- One drawer
- One shelf
- One surface (nightstand, kitchen counter)
- One laundry basket of items
If it feels almost too easy, you’re doing it right. James Clear in his book “Atomic Habits” uses the concept of flossing one tooth at a time. The act is so ridiculously small, but continue building on the habit and soon you’ll be flossing every night without resistance.
Pick low emotion areas.
When you’re overwhelmed, avoid sentimental items. Emotional decisions drain energy. Quick wins and early success builds confidence.
Start with:
- Paper piles
- Expired food
- Bathroom cabinets
- Entryway clutter
- Clothing you already don’t wear
Set a short time limit.
Long sessions increase stress, seem daunting and can quickly drain motivation.
Try:
- 10 minutes
- 15 minutes
- One song
- One commercial break
Give yourself full permission to stop when time is up—even if you want to keep going.
Progress beats exhaustion no matter how little the progress might seem. Continue to remind yourself this is a marathon not a sprint.
Don’t be tempted to organize.
This is a big one. Decluttering must come before organizing.
If you try to buy bins or rearrange while overwhelmed, you’ll likely create more clutter and frustration. Reduce first, then organize.
Notice the win.
After you finish one small area, pause.
Ask yourself:
- Does this space feel lighter?
- Is it easier to use?
- Do I feel a tiny bit calmer?
That feeling—not perfection—is the goal.
Repeat tomorrow (or next week)
It doesn’t have to be daily, but you need to build discipline. Systematic, kind decluttering will last longer than attempting a weekend overhaul.
You need:
- Gentle consistency
- Self-compassion
- Permission to go slowly
Remind yourself.
You are not behind.
Your clutter does not define you.
And asking for help is a strength—not a failure.
Sometimes the bravest step is simply starting.