New year, new me. It’s a phrase we hear a lot at this time of year, but many of us become anxious at the thought of making drastic changes. Especially ones we might have to implement immediately. Instead of trying to change everything at once, the best way to make changes is to start slowly with achievable tasks. Here are some creative tips from the experts to declutter, get organised and get on the road to the new you!

The 5 minute rule

Create a list of smaller tasks you would like to complete, and set yourself a time limit of 5 minutes to complete it. 5 minutes a day is less daunting than carving out an entire day from your schedule to declutter your ever growing wardrobe. Start with dresses today, shoes tomorrow, and keep going until your list is complete!

The 12-12-12 challenge

This challenge is a great way to organise 36 items in your home or office all at once. The idea is that you’ll find 12 things to throw away, 12 to donate, and 12 to stay in some capacity. Get the family involved by making it a game for your kids or partner to see you can finish first.

Tackle your closet 

Oprah brought a great tip to life when she explained the greatest hack for wardrobes, ever. Hang all your clothes facing in the one direction and once you’ve worn an item place it back in the wardrobe but facing the opposite way. In 3 months time evaluate the items that are still facing the original way. If you haven’t managed to wear them in the past 3 months, maybe consider donating them.

Use the space you have

We all have that ‘spare bedroom’ that’s really just a room full of junk. Why not make use of it, and turn it into a home office or library? If it’s big enough, and you have the budget, treat yourself to a walk-in wardrobe for ultimate organising goals and #lifegoals.

Make more space

Part of the problem can be actually having the space to store everything in a neat and tidy way. Try some extra containers that you can stack neatly in the unused corner of your closet. Buy an adjustable rod to add extra hanging space, and consider even pushing a chest of drawers into your closet (if you have the room) to free up some bedroom floor space.

Lose the emotion 

There’s no point in keeping that dress that doesn’t fit you anymore. It doesn’t matter if that was the first dress you ever kissed a boy in, or if you wore it to your first date with your last boyfriend. It’s just taking up space. If you really want to keep it, pop it into a vacuum package with other items to which you’re emotional attached. Store them out of the way, and free up some space for useful things.

If you think you’re ready to enter the big league, try reading The Life Changing Magic of Tiding Up by Marie Kondo. She teaches you how to master the Japanese art of organisation and decluttering in a simple way with detailed guidance. Before you know it, you’ll enjoy tidying and be ready to start the new year off right!