Let’s face it: everyone likes the idea of decluttering, but not actually doing it. Even when needed the most, there are those who either avoid it, refuse to part with things, or are in denial about the need to declutter altogether.
Often there’s no need or point to convincing them otherwise. Unless extreme, we should be respectful and empathic about it. However, there are still ways to achieve decluttering by working around their stubborness.
Draw The Line
Focus on what belongings and places are yours. This will give you clear goals in decluttering the spaces you need to function better. This also respects others by not asking them to do something they would not want to. There’s no point in forcing others, but this way, others can’t stop you. As long as it’s yours, you have the power to declutter it.
Organise, Don’t Declutter
But what if these spaces aren’t yours? Sometimes there’s no way around it and if that’s the case, you will need their consent. Be clear in letting the owner of the belongings and space that you will respect their wishes against decluttering. Nothing will be thrown out, but rather organized. You’d be surprised at how much more breathing room can be achieved by simply rearranging. But always remember that you need to be respectful, and get their consent about what you will and will not do to their belongings and spaces.
Make Things Easier
Lastly, the root of clutter is often that being neat is sometimes harder than otherwise. But if there’s an easier way to do the right thing, people will do it. Locate the spaces that are prone to clutter and make organizing them easy. Provide dedicated spaces, emphasize accessibility, and lead by example. If you keep things organized, others are more likely to do the same.