This weekend, I cleaned out a closet. Just one closet.
Sometimes it’s a single shelf or even one drawer. It might not sound like much, but somehow it always shifts something bigger inside me. I live in a multi-generational home with an artist who collects antiques—so let’s just say there’s always something to look at. Every corner is creative chaos, and while I love the color and energy, it can also feel overwhelming when you’re trying to stay organized or carve out calm.
I’ve learned not to wait until everything is perfect. I focus on small, manageable chunks. And sometimes, that’s enough to start a ripple effect.
The Project – Why I Started
I didn’t wake up thinking I’d clean out a closet. I just walked by it, noticed how it had started swallowing everything in its path, and thought, “Okay, I’ll take 30 minutes.”
At the time, I felt mentally cluttered and overwhelmed about how to tackle cleaning our space. Taking on something small felt doable. And if I’ve learned anything, it’s that forward momentum doesn’t have to start with something huge.
Why small steps work:
- They’re less intimidating.
- You can actually finish what you start.
- You build confidence to keep going.
Steps I followed:
- Picked just one space to focus on.
- Set a timer for 30 minutes (no pressure).
- Had a donation box, a trash bag, and a keep pile ready.
- Turned on some music I loved.
- Let go of the idea of perfect. This is progress—not Pinterest.
Tip: Don’t stress about perfection. This is for you.
As I pulled things out of that closet, I found quiet moments. I wasn’t just cleaning—I was slowing down, breathing deeper, thinking more clearly. I found items I’d forgotten and items I’d never seen before, clothes I hadn’t worn in years, and even a few things we had been emotionally holding onto “just in case.”
By letting go of a few items, I let go of a little control. I embraced the mess and made room—not just in my home, but in my mind.
There’s a beautiful parallel between transforming our living spaces and transforming our emotions. Sometimes, the smallest project becomes a kind of therapy.
The Final Reveal + Before/After
The closet? It looks great. Bins are labeled, shelves are tidy, and I can actually see what I have.
But more than that—it changed how I felt in the space. I walked away lighter, calmer, and a bit more grounded. There’s something sacred about tending to your home in a way that cares for your soul, too.
What You Can Do
Want to try it for yourself? You don’t have to do your whole house. Just one space. One corner. One closet.
A few tips to get started:
- Pick a space you use often—it’ll make an immediate impact.
- Keep it simple: three piles—keep, donate, toss.
- Set a time limit. Progress over perfection.
- Light a candle or put on music to make it enjoyable.
- Celebrate your win—no matter how small.
Every small act of care you show your space is an act of care for yourself. You’re worth the time, energy, and peace that comes from creating order in your world.
Have a project like this in mind? Need help getting started? Reach out or drop a comment—I’d love to hear your story or lend a hand.