Choosing (and sharing) joy with a pre-holiday declutter
As the holidays approach, many of us begin preparing our homes for the festive season. The excitement of decorating, cooking, and gift-giving can often lead to a buildup of clutter, leaving us feeling overwhelmed. But what if, instead of adding more to our homes, we took the time to declutter and create space for the things that truly matter? A well-timed declutter before the holidays can not only make your home feel more tranquil and peaceful but also help others, particularly if you focus on children's toys, clothes, and holiday decorations.
The act of decluttering before the holidays can have a profound effect on your mental and emotional well-being. As we all know, the holidays can be stressful, and clutter only adds to that tension. With gifts to buy, meals to prepare, and family events to attend, the last thing you want is to feel burdened by a cluttered home. By taking a few hours to declutter, you can create an environment that is more functional and less chaotic, allowing you to focus on what really matters: spending quality time with family, friends, and creating cherished memories that spark joy.
One area of your home that can accumulate a lot of clutter is your child's room. Toys and clothes can quickly pile up, making the space feel cramped and disorganized. With the holidays just around the corner, take some time to go through your child's belongings and sort through the excess.
Children outgrow toys and clothes quickly, and now is the perfect time to go through the things they no longer use. By taking a critical look at the toys and clothes that no longer serve them, you not only make room for new gifts, but you also teach your children the importance of giving. Encouraging your kids to help you with this process—whether it’s sorting through clothes they’ve outgrown or selecting toys to pass on—can help them develop a sense of generosity and gratitude - qualities that are invaluable during the holiday season.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the many children who might not have the privilege of receiving gifts this season. Donating gently used toys and clothes to local charities or shelters can spread such joy to others. Imagine a child waking up to a surprise gift on Christmas morning because someone like you took the time to declutter their home and make a difference.
The holiday season often brings with it a collection of decorations, old wrapping paper, and festive supplies that have accumulated over the years. Whether it’s a string of lights or last year’s holiday cards, there’s a good chance that you have a box of items you no longer need or use. Instead of letting these items take up precious space in your home, consider donating them to organizations that could benefit from them now, rather than after the season has ended.
For example, some community centers, schools, or nursing homes may be in need of festive decorations to brighten their spaces. Others may welcome donations of extra holiday items like wrapping paper, gift bags, or cards. Donating these items allows you to share the holiday spirit with others while clearing out clutter in your own home. Of course, you’ll definitely want to check with the intended recipients before simply dropping off a box of items.
If you find that you have a collection of unwanted gifts or surplus holiday decorations, donate them now to community organizations – don’t wait until the new year. Many families will appreciate the opportunity to purchase holidays items at more reasonable prices. Whether it's a set of serving platters, extra candles, or unopened gift sets, your unused items can make a real difference in someone else’s holiday celebration.
Decluttering before the holidays isn’t just about tidying up your space—it’s about making room for joy, gratitude, and giving. By sorting through your items, you create opportunities to give to others, fostering a sense of community and kindness. The holidays are a time of giving, and by donating your previously loved items, you contribute to the well-being of those around you. And, if you’re able, buying new toys or clothes to donate is always welcomed by many local organizations with gratitude.
Moreover, the process of decluttering offers a head start for your new year resolutions. It provides a more immediate sense of accomplishment and control, helping you feel better prepared to welcome the new year without the burden of excess. Your home becomes a peaceful sanctuary where you can enjoy the festivities, create new memories, and start the New Year with a clean slate.
This season, let’s be mindful that the holidays are about the people we love and the time we spend. Don’t wait until after the holidays when a holiday focused declutter, can help you tidy your space and bring joy to another’s. May your days before the holidays be filled with calm, may you choose joy at every turn, and may all your lights be easily untangled! Happy Tidying!