We’ve all been there, haven’t we? You’ve finally decided to start your decluttering journey, letting go of what no longer serves you and maybe even parting with a few sentimental items. But just as you’re in the groove, bam! Someone chimes in with their unsolicited advice. Suddenly, you’re questioning your entire process.
They’ll tell you how to organize your place according to their style. Like somehow, their way is the only way. And don’t even get me started on the “minimalist” advice! Oh, the horror when they start referring to your things as “old” or “outdated,” even calling them “junk” in the most judgmental tone. As if the decision to part with something that doesn’t bring joy shouldn’t be up to you.
Here’s the deal: when it comes to decluttering and releasing items that no longer serve you, there’s no one-size-fits-all rulebook. It’s YOUR journey, YOUR space, and YOUR peace of mind that’s on the line. But sometimes, the opinions of others, whether family, friends or even your spouse, can derail the process. In this blog post, I’m going to talk about why unsolicited advice can cause chaos in your decluttering process and, most importantly, how you can get back on track if someone’s negative energy has thrown you off course.
The Danger of Unsolicited Advice
It happens more often than you think. You’re scrolling through Pinterest or watching that cute home organization reel on Instagram, and you’re feeling pumped about your decluttering journey. Your goal is simple: create a space that feels like you, a space that brings peace and tranquillity to your life.
Then, just when you’re in the zone, someone, often with zero experience or qualifications, decides to chime in. They tell you how you should organize your kitchen or why your living room looks cluttered in their eyes as if their idea of perfect is the only one that matters.
Here’s the kicker: What works for them might not work for you. They might push you to be a minimalist, to rid yourself of everything they consider unnecessary. But in reality, you need to feel your way through decluttering. It’s all about keeping the things that bring you joy and tossing out the rest. No one else gets to decide that for you.
How to Stay True to Your Decluttering Process
I get it. When well-meaning people start dropping advice, it’s easy to get distracted. But remember: YOUR space is YOUR sanctuary. Decluttering is not just about clearing physical space; it’s about creating a mental space that feels good for you. Here’s how you can get back on track:
1. Set Your Intentions Before You Start
Before diving into decluttering, remind yourself why you’re doing it. Focus on creating a peaceful environment that reflects your needs and desires, not someone else’s standards. Take a moment to reflect on what you want from your space, what you truly value, and what brings you peace. Keeping this clear in your mind will help you avoid getting swayed by others’ opinions.
2. Trust Your Gut—Not Their Opinion
When someone says, “Oh, that’s old!” or “Why are you keeping that?” take a moment and ask yourself, “Does this item still have value for ME?” Your space, your items, your rules. Trust that your intuition knows what’s best for you. If you’re holding onto something because it’s sentimental or it brings you joy, that’s perfectly valid. In fact, it’s one of the core reasons why we declutter—to keep the things that truly align with who we are and where we’re going.
Now, I’ve mentioned before that sometimes “ruthless decluttering” is necessary. I’ve practiced it myself and with my clients when we’re trying to get past that hurdle of deciding whether to let go of something we’re holding onto out of guilt, not because it serves us. But there’s another side to decluttering that’s equally important: intentionality.
Intentional decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of the “junk” or the things you don’t need anymore. It’s being purposeful with what you keep. When you approach decluttering with intention, you’re not just removing things; you’re making space for what truly matters. Instead of following trends or forcing a minimalist approach, intentional decluttering is about making conscious decisions that align with your lifestyle today and your vision for the future. That’s the heart of intentional decluttering.
3. Create Boundaries Around Your Space
It’s important to establish boundaries with people who consistently offer advice that doesn’t serve you. Gently let them know that while you appreciate their input, you’re following your own path with decluttering. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for your choices. Be firm but kind, and make sure you protect the process that is so crucial to your well-being.
4. Don’t Let Guilt Take Over
Sometimes, when people criticize your decluttering decisions, you might start feeling guilty. Maybe you keep things that others would call “junk,” or maybe you’re reluctant to part with something that’s been in your family for years. But let me tell you something: you don’t need to meet anyone else’s standards. Keep what feels right for you. Guilt has no place here.
5. Reevaluate Toxic Relationships
If you constantly find yourself feeling negative or anxious after interacting with certain people, it might be time to reassess those relationships. Do their opinions lift you up or bring you down? Negative comments and unsolicited advice can take a toll on your mental health and your decluttering journey. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is distance yourself from people who don’t support your growth and peace of mind.
How to Get Back on Track After Being Derailed
If you’ve found yourself sidetracked by someone’s ill-timed “advice,” don’t fret. It happens to the best of us. Here are some simple steps to help you regain momentum:
1. Pause and Reflect
Take a step back and check in with yourself. Did you get off track because of their words? Do you still feel the same way about your decluttering decisions, or have you internalized their opinion? Reflecting on what’s important to you will help you regain your focus.
2. Revisit Your Goals
Remind yourself of the goals you set for your space. If your goal was to create a peaceful, organized home that fits your lifestyle, then nothing has changed except for the fact that you’ve let someone else’s opinion infiltrate your space. Return to your original plan and make sure you’re still aligned with what you want to achieve.
3. Take It One Step at a Time
Don’t rush! Decluttering is a process. Take it one room, one drawer, or one item at a time. There’s no need to hurry or meet anyone else’s timeline. Embrace the journey and enjoy the small wins along the way.
4. Celebrate Your Progress
Every small step counts. Did you finally let go of that coat you haven’t worn in years? That’s progress! Celebrate every little victory. When you’re feeling discouraged by others’ negative opinions, remember how far you’ve come.
If you’re looking for more guidance, click here to get the Mindset Makeover: Decluttering Your Life with Ease Ebook to help with decluttering and stay on track with your goals. It’s a perfect resource to keep your mindset focused and the decluttering process smooth!
It’s Your Space, Your Peace
Always remember, decluttering isn’t just about throwing things away. It’s about clearing space for the things that truly matter to you. Don’t let anyone make you feel like you’re doing it wrong because they don’t understand your vision. You are the one who gets to decide what’s right for you.
By embracing a mindset that values your own peace over others’ opinions, you’ll create a space that’s not just organized but feels like a true reflection of YOU. Keep going, and never let anyone’s negativity stand in your way!
So, let’s keep this journey positive, joyful, and on your terms. If you’re feeling derailed by someone else’s unsolicited advice, take a moment, re-center, and remember: you have the power to make your space and your life exactly what you want it to be.
Share your thoughts with me in the comments! How do you stay true to your own vision when others try to derail your process? Let’s keep this conversation going and support each other in creating the peaceful, organized spaces we deserve.
