Decluttering has become a buzzword in our search for simplicity and peace. We hear about its benefits everywhere—from creating a more organized space to nurturing a calmer mind. However, along with these benefits, numerous myths surrounding decluttering can make the process feel overwhelming or even unattainable.
Are you curious about decluttering but unsure what's fact and what's fiction?
Decluttering is more than tidying up—creating a space that nurtures your well-being and supports your goals. Take this quick and fun decluttering quiz to discover the truth behind common myths and see how your beliefs stack up!
Whether you're a seasoned organizer or just getting started, this quiz will offer fresh insights and practical tips to help you journey to a more peaceful, productive, and intentional space. Let's get started.
9 Decluttering Beliefs: Facts or Myths:
Read each item and decide if it is true or false. The answers are given at the end.
- Decluttering is a One-Time Event.
- Decluttering Helps You Save Money.
- Decluttering Takes Too Much Time.
- You Need to Organize Before You Declutter.
- Decluttering is Only About Physical Items.
- Decluttering Creates Space for What Matters Most.
- You Can’t Declutter If You’re Busy.
- Decluttering is Only About Physical Items.
- Decluttering Encourages Mindfulness and Intentionality.
Great job on taking the quiz!
Decluttering isn’t just about tossing things away—it’s about making mindful choices that align with how you want to live and feel in your space.
It’s a process of letting go of what no longer serves you and making room for what truly matters. As you reflect on your quiz answers, remember that decluttering is a personal journey, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach.
Each step is a step towards creating a space that supports your inner calm and the life you dream of living. Ready to see how you did? Let’s dive into the answers!
Fact or Myth? The Answers
1. Decluttering is a One-Time Event.
False. Decluttering is not a one-time affair where you clear everything out and never have to think about it again. Life is fluid, and our needs and possessions change over time. Decluttering is an ongoing process, one that requires regular attention and care. Instead of considering it a monumental task, view it as a series of small, consistent actions that keep your space—and life—feeling light and manageable.
2. Decluttering Helps You Save Money.
True. Decluttering and organizing your belongings makes you more aware of what you already have. You do not buy another one when you know what you have and where it is. This can lead to more mindful spending and financial savings.
3. Decluttering Takes Too Much Time.
False. You don’t need to dedicate an entire weekend or more to declutter effectively. Even 10 minutes a day can make a noticeable difference over time. The key is to start small and be consistent. Tackle one drawer, shelf, or small area at a time. Gradually, you’ll see the results without feeling overwhelmed.
4. You Need to Organize Before You Declutter.
False. This is a common misconception. Organizing should come after decluttering, not before. When you declutter first, you remove the excess, making it easier to see what you need to organize. Organizing clutter is just shuffling things around—it doesn’t solve the underlying issue. Clear out first, then organize what’s left. A client kept trying to manage all of your belongings before she wanted to declutter. What she discovered is that organizing helped her avoid decluttering.
5. Decluttering is Only About Physical Items.
False. Clutter can take many forms—digital, emotional, mental, and relational. Decluttering your email inbox, social media feeds, or even your daily schedule can be just as impactful as decluttering your physical space. Consider all areas where clutter may weigh you down, and apply the same principles of simplicity and intentionality. Digital decluttering is my biggest challenge because it is easy to file and forget. Until now, I was unaware of how many saved items I had.
6. Decluttering Creates Space for What Matters Most.
True. When you remove excess items, you make room for the things, people, and activities that enrich your life. Decluttering isn’t about getting rid of things; it’s about creating space for what brings you joy and fulfillment.
7. You Can’t Declutter If You’re Busy.
False. Decluttering doesn’t require hours of free time. You can make progress in just a few minutes a day. Look for pockets of time—waiting for coffee to brew, during commercial breaks, or while listening to a podcast. These small efforts will accumulate and make a noticeable difference. I used this as an excuse many times. Now, I declutter for 10 minutes, and over time, consistency creates results.
8. Decluttering is Only About Physical Items.
False. Clutter can take many forms—digital, emotional, mental, and relational. Decluttering your email inbox, social media feeds, or even your daily schedule can be just as impactful as decluttering your physical space. Consider all areas where clutter may weigh you down, and apply the same principles of simplicity and intentionality.
9. Decluttering Encourages Mindfulness and Intentionality.
True. As you declutter, you become more mindful of your belongings and their role. This process helps you make more intentional choices about what you keep and let go of, leading to a sense of purpose, clarity, and inner peace. When you take a few minutes to organize your desk at the end of the day, you create a space for productivity tomorrow.
How many facts and myths did you know? Any surprises? What do you want to know more about?
Your Next Action Steps
Now that you know the truth behind these decluttering myths, it’s time to take action. Start small—pick one area of your home, digital life, or schedule to declutter today.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be perfect, and it doesn’t have to happen all at once.
Focus on progress, not perfection.
As you begin to declutter, notice how your space and mindset shift. Each step brings you closer to a lighter, more intentional life where you are surrounded only by the things that truly matter. Happy decluttering!
You may also want to read this article: The Impact of Clutter on Your Vitality, Time, and Money
and this article, Clutter In Your Office, What’s It Costing You?
Here is a book you may find helpful:
Nancy Dadami is an Inner Peace Strategist, Medicine Painting Mentor, and Feng Shui Specialist. She helps empower leaders, visionaries, creators, and entrepreneurs called to growth, learning, service, and freedom so they can thrive by living the best version of themselves, creating a life of abundance, self-awareness, purpose, and inner peace. Find out more here Linktr.ee/nancydadami
