We all have spaces in our homes that aren’t functioning the way that we need them to. These spaces become a weight that we carry, often without realizing it. When these spaces are drawers or closets, and we can close and forget about them (until the next time we have to open them), it becomes easier to ignore them. When the space is your kitchen counter, or dining room table…the problem is much harder to ignore. So, they become one more thing on our mental to-do list.

The question is: How do we find the motivation to tackle that list?

While I get super nerdy and energized at the prospect of a good declutter and redesign, I realize that isn’t necessarily the norm. I also understand that after a long day, tackling the junk drawer often doesn’t make the top of the “You know what sounds awesome right now” list.

The following are 4 ways to jumpstart your decluttering motivation. They are my go-to weapons when the siren song of my bed and a good book is wailing in my ear.

1.Write down what you need from your space:

Personally, I like to keep a notebook for organization and design musings. I find that ideas and creativity flow more easily when I can sketch and write down exactly what I’m thinking (even if it’s unintelligible to anyone else). When I am faced with a space in my home that continually causes problems, I take a minute and write down exactly what I need from that space.

I also make a list of what is currently working in that space, and what isn’t. Writing down the problem and knowing what I need the solution to include helps me to be more intentional about how I tackle a project.

This process can be helpful on something as small as a junk drawer, or an entire room redesign. It may seem silly to take the time to do this for a junk drawer. But, having a list of what you keep in the drawer will help you weed out the “junk” you don’t actually need, and let you know what needs a designated space.

Take a minute. Write down what you want. When it comes time to get to work, you know what you need from your space, and you can be much more purposeful about what you choose to keep, and what can go. If it isn’t useful somewhere else in the home, get rid of it. Eliminate anything that doesn’t serve your ultimate goal for your space.

2. Set a timer:

If you are having trouble finding the motivation to clear your dining room table or declutter your pantry- set a timer. If you know that you are only setting aside 15-30 minutes, suddenly it feels like a much more manageable (and focused) task. An open ended “I should really do something about this space” quickly feels overwhelming…and often leads to not starting at all. It’s way too easy to say, “I just don’t have time for this”.

Set your timer, put on some music that relaxes or motivates you, and get to work.

Often you will find that you stay more focused when you know the set amount of time you have to complete a task. Having a set time can also make it easier to decide what to toss and what to keep. Getting started with something that only takes 15 minutes may also further motivate you to tackle other areas.

Once you have warmed up that decluttering muscle, it becomes easier to use it. When the time is up and you are staring at a clean and organized pantry, you might just be hooked.

3. Start with the easy stuff:

This tip goes hand in hand with setting a timer. It is easy to look at all the things you “should” be taking care of, and quickly become overwhelmed. Sometimes we just need to get started. Find a make-up drawer in the bathroom, or the Tupperware drawer, and just dive in. Make sure that you are getting started with a low stakes space…a space that doesn’t contain anything sentimental. Either the spices and canned goods have expired, or they haven’t. If they have, toss them. Done.

By choosing a space that you don’t have to second guess your decluttering decisions, you can build some momentum. Hopefully, your success from decluttering and organizing your last space will push you to move onto your next space with more confidence, and a desire to keep going.

4. Find inspiration and visualize:

Pinterest changed my life. Most importantly, it allowed me to get rid of many of the stacks and binders of torn magazine pages that I was keeping for inspiration. Having so many resources and images at my fingertips sent me down plenty of late-night rabbit holes but was a HUGE game changer for how I planned my next project. While Pinterest is not the only place to find inspiration and DIY tutorials, it is often where I start.

When starting a larger project, I would still recommend starting with my first tip, and write down what you want and need from your space.

Next, I would move on to searching for images of spaces that inspire you. Don’t feel like you need to only look at images of entryways, if that is the space you are focusing on. You might find a bathroom, or kitchen that takes your breath away. Examine those images. What is it that you like about that space? How can you apply it to your project (color, texture, style)?

Now that you have your inspiration, spend some time looking at the space you are working on. Again, this is where I would pull out my trusty notebook. Draw it out. It doesn’t matter if it looks good, just get those ideas flowing. The important thing is that you take the time to picture what you want the final product to look like. Sit with it. Visualize it. I dare you not to be excited about getting started.

Once you have a clear idea about what you want your space to look like, and know exactly what you need from your space, any necessary decluttering becomes a much easier task. The space will dictate how much you have room for. If something doesn’t fit your needs or vision, get it out of there!

So, here’s a little recap:

1. Write down what you need from your space
2. Set a timer
3. Start with the easy stuff
4. Find inspiration and visualize

Yes, staring down a long list of to-dos and “shoulds” when you are tired and just can’t summon the motivation is intimidating. But you can do it. One step at a time. No question. The key is knowing exactly what you need from your space. Big or small, a plan provides you with a jumping off point, and a clear path to where you are going. Creativity and flexibility are a huge part of organization and design. Don’t be afraid to reimagine what you already own. Don’t limit yourself.

Sometimes all it takes to get motivated is a timer, some good music, and a space that doesn’t force you to make any tough choices. Just. Get. Started. You will be surprised at the high that your successes and beautiful newly organized spaces will provide you.

If you don’t have a clear vision, look for inspiration. It’s out there. Go get it and get to work!

If you have some tried and true ways to get yourself motivated, I would love to hear them!