Signora Sheila

Our current house is half the size of the previous place we had up north, and at first I struggled to fit everything in. So I began to see the need to declutter. Life here in our peaceful valley is also slow and simple. It has helped me to rethink my values and priorities.

It’s strange, though, because the idea of decluttering seems foreign to many Italians! Many here prefer to keep things “just in case.” We helped clean out a house after the owner died. And it was amazing how much garbage we threw out. Bottles, bags, broken things, and countless useless items.

Anyway, having too much stuff makes it harder to keep things organized. People often think that a smaller home is easier to clean, and it’s usually quicker. But it is harder to keep things organized. One thing out of place and everything seems messy. As a result, I have taken to decluttering and do it regularly. Much to my husband’s chagrin! He’s more in the “just in case” camp. 🤔

So if you’re about to start your Pulizie di Pasqua (spring cleaning), I’m going to share some great reasons for why you should consider decluttering while you’re at it. Just look at all the benefits you could reap!

10 Unexpected Benefits of Decluttering:

1. 😊 Less stress

We all know how frustrating it is when we can’t find something, right? Especially when it means digging through stuff we haven’t used (or even seen) in years! In trying to fit everything into our tiny home, we were forced to evaluate on this basis. Do we use it? Do we need it?

2. ⛱️ More peace of mind and relaxation

Research shows that stress levels rise when we have a lot on our plate. Not having to struggle (either physically or mentally) with excess stuff can bring peace of mind. Sifting through excess possessions drains energy and focus. And it becomes difficult to truly relax.

3. ⏱️ More time and better punctuality

A simplified home can streamline your life. It saves time. Not just the time you would have spent looking for things. But also the time it would have taken to clean it all up. And it can put an end to last-minute searches for keys, a purse, or missing shoes – and help you get over being late.

4. 💭 Improved focus and clarity

According to one study, clutter can make it harder to focus and process information. As a result, we are more likely to make hasty, frustrating decisions. And the increased drain on mental energy also tends to make us tire more quickly.

5. 🎨 Increased creativity

The energy we spend looking for things or dealing with excess stuff eats up our time. Time that we could be spending on the things we love! Like hobbies, spending time with friends and family, relaxing, or just doing nothing!

6. 🤧 It’s healthier

Dust, insects, and spiders (shudder) hide in clutter and in unclean corners. And household accidents are more likely when you have too many things to trip over!

7. 👫 Better relationships

Many family arguments are caused by stress. Fewer things and better organization can reduce this risk. People are also less likely to entertain when their home is cluttered. Don’t trade peace of mind and harmony in relationships for a bunch of useless stuff!

8. 🛍️ We can help others

Could friends or neighbors use things you don’t want? Or a family struggling to make ends meet? Many charities also need donations of clean, usable items. What about immigrants, refugees, or the homeless in your area? And did you know that animal shelters are always looking for old, tattered rugs, blankets, and towels?

9. 💰 We can save (or even make) money

Many declutterers make money by having a garage sale, rummage sale, or selling things on eBay®. But I have found that decluttering also saves us money! Why is that? Because it helps me shop less! It can be a powerful shopping deterrent. After you get rid of unnecessary stuff, why buy more of the same?

10. ☁️ It can raise our values to a higher level

By letting go of “stuff” we begin to see that it really has no lasting value. It can be a useful tool, yes. But not if it becomes a burden. By recognizing this truth, we gain a deeper appreciation for things that do have lasting value. Things like time spent with people and in God’s presence, making meaningful memories, and helping others.

I’ve seen that stuff often becomes a hindrance. It may not seem like it at first. But as we had less and less stuff, I discovered that for every thing that went out the door, some (or all) of these benefits came in. And it’s helped us create a life centered on the things that have real meaning for us. A peaceful, restful life built on relationships, memories, and a wealth of experiences.

So what are you waiting for? If decluttering can enrich your life in this way, isn’t it worth considering? Why not start today?

📷 Image credits: broom; graphic made on Canva.