A Fresh Start: Why a New Month Clear Out Can Change More Than Your

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Usually, when I visit a new client, they’ve reached a point of overwhelm. It’s often the one word I hear again and again. Overwhelm doesn’t arrive overnight — it builds slowly as clutter creeps into our homes and, before we realise it, into our minds as well.

Many people don’t immediately connect their stress levels to their surroundings. But living in clutter can quietly affect how we feel every single day. When we’re overwhelmed, stress levels rise, and over time this can make us unwell. It can impact our mental health, our physical health, and even our relationships with the people around us. When home feels chaotic, life often does too.

That’s why the New Month is such a powerful opportunity. It naturally invites us to pause, reset, and start fresh — not with pressure or perfection, but with intention.

Small steps make a big difference

One of the biggest myths about decluttering is that it has to be done all at once. In reality, small, manageable steps are often the most effective. That’s why I encourage a 10-minute clear out a day. Just ten minutes can help you regain a sense of control and make your home feel calmer and more manageable.

This January, I ran a simple January Challenge, setting a 10-minute task each day to focus on one small area of the home. The aim was not to be ruthless — it was to streamline and simplify, so your space works better for you and your family.

Over time, these small daily habits build momentum. You start to notice clearer surfaces, easier routines, and a lighter feeling when you walk into a room. That’s when motivation really grows.

How clutter affects everyday life

During initial consultations, clients often open up about things they hadn’t realised were connected to clutter. Questions like:

Are you able to work comfortably in your home?

Do your children have a safe, clear space to play?

Can you prepare healthy meals easily, or does the kitchen feel stressful?

Do you feel comfortable inviting friends or family over without worrying about being judged?

These are real challenges that people face every day, yet many don’t recognise clutter as the root cause. Our homes should support us — not drain our energy or add to our stress.

A gentle place to start

If you’re not sure where to begin, simply take a look around one room. Ask yourself:

What do I actually use here?

What feels heavy, unused, or no longer needed?

What could I let go of to make this space calmer?

You might find it helpful to write a short list of the pros and cons of keeping certain items. Sometimes seeing it written down makes the decision easier. Letting go doesn’t mean failure — it means making space for the life you want now.

A balanced home supports new habits

A clearer home creates space not just physically, but mentally too. It supports healthier habits, better routines, and a sense of balance that carries into all areas of life. When your environment feels calmer, it’s easier to focus, rest, and enjoy time with the people you care about.

And remember — you don’t have to do it alone. If you feel stuck or unsure, I’m always at the end of the phone and happy to help.

This month, give yourself permission to start gently. Ten minutes a day really can change everything.

@clearmountaindecluttering.com