Our lives are becoming busier than ever. We fill up every moment with activities; work, holidays, nights out, seeing friends and family – there’s rarely a spare moment. We are constantly on the go and whilst it’s fun to fill up every day and leave little room for boredom it has definitely lead our lives to become pretty cluttered.

The release of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying (a book I loved!) saw a phenomenon sweep over the world with people shifting the rubbish and movement towards a more meaningful existence. Here are 5 ways to steer yourself closer to a decluttered life. 

1. The Rule of Five

Whenever you declutter keep the rule of five in mind and try to get rid of at leave five items every time you have a throwing-out session. You don’t need to throw out big items all the time either. It could be as simple as recycling a magazine, passing a book on to a friend and taking clothing to the charity shop.

2. Don’t Throw – Donate or Car Boot

When you begin to get rid of unwanted possessions don’t just chuck them in the bin. As they say another man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Take the time to bag up items into piles for charity shops, car boot or even friends and family members. A car boot is a great way to make a bit of extra pocket money and well worth the early start for a fun day out.

3. Use the 6 Month Rule

For many of us items of clothing can hold particular memories. Whether it’s a graduation dress or a pair of lucky shoes – we can all become a little too attached to our sartorial items. Don’t get stuck in the habit of keeping things ‘just in case’ and give your wardrobe a clear out. If you’ve not worn it in 6 months then get rid. If you can’t bear to chuck something then put it in a pile where you promise you’ll wear it. If it comes around to your next wardrobe clearing session and you’ve not worn it in the time since then it really is time to get rid.

4. Keep a Diary

Putting pen to paper can be so therapeutic and whilst I’m sure you’re thinking isn’t that adding clutter to my life not taking away, let me explain. How many of us go about our lives without really documenting the important stuff. Whether you keep a bullet journal to keep on top of yearly, monthly and weekly plans or jot down your thoughts day to day – it can be a great way to declutter your mind.

5. Store Treasures Safely

We all have favourite items that we don’t want to get rid of so keep your treasures safe and give them pride of place in your home. If most of your photos are left on your iPhone then make an effort to print them and pop them in your favourite photo frames. If, on the other hand you have so many photos printed without a home, why not pick up a photo box like this one and get them out when you fancy a trip down memory lane. Take the time to declutter your life and you’ll feel as though a weight has been lifted from your shoulders!