Decluttering can transform your living space into a more organized, peaceful, and functional environment. However, the process can be complicated. Many people make mistakes that can hinder their progress or even create more clutter. Here are seven things you should avoid when decluttering:

1. Don’t Start Without a Plan

Jumping into decluttering without a clear plan can lead to frustration and burnout. Before you begin, set specific goals for what you want to achieve. Decide which areas to tackle first and create a timeline to keep yourself on track. A well-thought-out plan will help you stay focused and motivated throughout the process.

2. Don’t Keep Items “Just in Case”

It’s tempting to hold onto items you might need in the future. However, this mindset can quickly lead to clutter accumulation. Be honest with yourself about whether you truly need an item. You won’t likely miss it if you haven’t used it in the past year.

3. Don’t Declutter Alone

Decluttering can be overwhelming, especially if you’re tackling a large area. Please be sure to enlist the help of friends or family members to make the process more manageable and enjoyable. Having a second opinion can also help you decide what to keep and let go.

4. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself

Trying to declutter your entire home in one day is a recipe for burnout. Break the task into smaller, manageable chunks. Focus on one room or even one section at a time. This approach will help you see progress without feeling overwhelmed.

5. Don’t Ignore Emotional Attachments

Items often hold sentimental value, making it difficult to let them go. Acknowledge your emotions and take your time with sentimental items. Consider taking photos of these items to preserve the memories without keeping the physical objects.

6. Don’t Forget to Dispose of Items Properly

Moving items from one place to another doesn’t solve the clutter problem. Have a clear plan for how you’ll dispose of unwanted items. Donate gently used items to organizations like Project B Green, recycle when possible, and properly dispose of items that can’t be reused.

7. Don’t Buy Organizing Supplies First

It’s tempting to buy bins, boxes, and other organizing supplies before you start decluttering. However, this can lead to more clutter if you don’t use them. I’d like you to declutter first and assess what organizing supplies you need. This will save you time, money, and space.