Hate Throwing Stuff Out, But Need More Space? ‘Reverse Decluttering’ Could Help

What a rotten mix of traits I have. I love collecting new stuff, hate throwing things out, and also adore free space and clear counters.

That means I can spend hours stressing over my cluttered cupboards, despairing about what could happen if I threw away that once-beloved trench coat, all to end up in a frozen, stressed state. 

If that sounds like you, Bill Parkinson, a bedding expert from Sleepy Piglets, may have a solution.

“If you struggle with decision fatigue, reverse decluttering is a great way to ease into the process with a more positive mindset,” he explained. 

What is “reverse decluttering”? 

The process is pretty simple (and rather like Marie Kondo’s joy-sparking rule) – instead of trying ot work out what you want to lose, consider what you couldn’t live without. 

“Rather than starting with what to get rid of, begin by setting aside the things you know you want to keep,” Parkinson said.

“This helps set the tone for a productive session by focusing on what’s already useful or valued in your space. That small win naturally makes the decisions that follow feel less overwhelming, while helping you to feel more confident and in control from the outset.” 

Indeed, some research has found that employees who set short-term goals were more likely to complete them.

“Once your essentials are set aside, it’s much easier to look at what’s left and decide what to donate, recycle or move on,” Parkinson continued.