A gamified strategy known as the 30-Day Minimalism Challenge offers a structured approach for individuals looking to declutter their homes. Created by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, or 'The Minimalists,' the challenge involves decluttering a progressively larger number of items each day for 30 days, starting with one item on day one and culminating with 30 items on day 30. This method results in the removal of 465 items by the end of the month.
Professional organizers view the challenge as a potentially effective tool for habit formation and motivation. Regina Lark, a professional organizer, notes that the challenge provides a slow and consistent way to begin decluttering without feeling overwhelming. Bohne Leah, another organizer, highlights that turning the task into a game can make it more approachable. Katie Hubbard of Turn It Tidy suggests that beyond clearing space, the challenge encourages mindful consumption by prompting individuals to consider their purchases more carefully.
Julie Naylon of No Wire Hangers Professional Organizing believes the primary benefit is motivation for those who struggle to start decluttering. Lisa Zaslow of Gotham Organizers emphasizes that the challenge offers daily accountability and a sense of accomplishment, especially when undertaken with a partner. Leah also points out that the challenge helps build decision-making skills incrementally.
However, the method is not without its criticisms. Hubbard suggests it can be a slower process, requiring daily commitment and potentially delaying visible results. She also notes that decluttering can be emotional, and the pressure to discard items, particularly on higher-numbered days, might lead to overwhelm rather than motivation.
Naylon cautions that the challenge prioritizes quantity over quality, meaning the removal of many small items may not significantly impact living spaces. She argues that the number of discarded items should not be the sole measure of success.
Zaslow, who does not identify as a minimalist, points out that the term 'minimalism' itself might feel daunting to some, especially those with sentimental attachments or collections. The daily commitment can also be a hurdle; Zaslow suggests celebrating progress rather than dwelling on missed days.
Leah advises that if a day is missed, individuals should simply pick up where they left off or double up on a more manageable day, rather than abandoning the challenge.
For those considering the challenge, organizers offer several tips. Zaslow recommends deciding in advance what to do with discarded items, such as donating to thrift shops or participating in local exchange groups. She suggests creating a fictional recipient, like 'Joe,' to help clients feel comfortable letting go of items they might otherwise keep.
Leah encourages participants to focus on the process and to have fun, perhaps by singing along to "Let It Go" from "Frozen." She notes that the quantifiable nature of the challenge can appeal to achievement-driven individuals but advises against being overly rigid.
Naylon advises focusing on progress over numbers, emphasizing that even removing a few items daily contributes to a less cluttered home. She recommends starting with easy-to-discard items like expired products or duplicates before moving to more complex decisions.
Leah suggests habit stacking, linking the decluttering task to an existing daily routine, and keeping a donation box readily accessible. She also proposes trying a shorter 7-day version if the 30-day commitment seems too daunting.
Lark suggests an alternative approach: clearing out a specific number of items from one category per day, such as 10 water bottles or 10 articles of clothing. Ultimately, she advises choosing a method that works best for the individual.
Both organizers stress the importance of a positive mindset and self-compassion, noting that the goal is to create a more manageable living environment, not to add stress to one's life.