Overcoming the Shame of Asking for Help with Decluttering Your Home

When people consider decluttering their homes, they often feel overwhelmed and anxious. They look around, unsure of where to begin, and may avoid the task altogether because it seems too difficult to manage. Facing the mountain of belongings that have accumulated over the years or dealing with sentimental items can be challenging. Many of us hold onto things for various reasons, but everyone reaches a point where they realize it’s time to take action.

As clutter accumulates, it can cause feelings of shame, making it difficult for individuals to reach out for help. But let me tell you, shame is hindering you from freedom. Here’s how you can overcome the shame of asking for help and embrace the support you need to get your life back on track!

Recognize That You’re Not Alone

First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that many people struggle with clutter. In today’s consumer-driven society, it’s easy to accumulate items that eventually become burdensome. Another common cause of clutter is for people who have lived in the same house for many years and don’t have a habit of going through their belongings. When you have jobs and kids and are living life, going through the drawers in your house is not a top priority. So, remember that clutter is a common experience for many people, not a personal failure. Clutter does not indicate that you are a bad housekeeper or lousy mom just because your cabinets are overflowing or your kids lack organization systems in their rooms. Life moves quickly; before you know it, your house feels chaotic and out of control. It’s easy to become overwhelmed, especially when you don’t know where to start to make things better. You are not alone in feeling this way!

Understand the Benefits of Asking for Help

Decluttering can be an emotional process because it involves memories and attachments. Asking for help makes the task easier and provides emotional support. A friend or family member can give you new ideas, help you make choices, and encourage you during any tough decisions. Getting support can also hold you accountable and make completing tasks a lot easier. The process feels significantly less burdensome when you have someone coaching you or talking you through things.

Shift Your Perspective on Help

Instead of thinking that asking for help shows weakness, see it as a sign of strength and self-care. It shows you understand that you can’t do everything on your own. Everyone needs help sometimes, and reaching out can lead to the freedom you desire in your house and your mind!
Think about the last person you helped. You probably didn’t think anything judgmental or critical of the person. When you ask for help, it shows self-awareness of your problem, and people are less inclined to think something bad but instead sympathize with your weakness.

Choose the Right Person to Ask

When it comes to asking for help, think about who in your life would be most understanding and supportive. This could be a trusted friend, family member, or even a professional declutterer and organizer. Choose someone who respects your space, encourages your efforts, and won’t make you feel bad about your current situation.

If reaching out to a professional is your only option, consider that THIS IS THEIR JOB! You don’t need to feel shame or embarrassment with a professional because they literally need you to stay employed. I always tell people it is like visiting a doctor for something extremely vulnerable. The doctor doesn’t think twice about why you are there; they deal with this daily. The same is true for a Declutterer or Organizer!

Set Clear Expectations

Before you start decluttering, discuss your goals with the person helping you. Make sure you both understand the project’s scope, set a timeline, and address any sensitive areas. This will ensure you are both prepared, creating an atmosphere of purpose and direction. If you have an off-limit zone, don’t be afraid to say, “I’m not ready to deal with this area yet.” You can always come back to certain things as you work through areas of your house.

Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

As you declutter your home, remember that it’s about progress, not perfection. If you are working through your entire house, it will take some time. Working room by room will create a sense of accomplishment, and you should celebrate those small victories! As the stuff starts to leave the house, you should feel the burden of shame leave your shoulders!

Embrace Self-Compassion

Finally, practice self-compassion! Everyone has moments of struggle and chaos in their lives. Be kind to yourself, and don’t let the feelings of shame prevent you from seeking help. Remind yourself that you can do hard things! Asking for help is a sign of courage, not weakness. I know it’s easier said than done at times, but allowing shame to fill your mind is what truly causes weakness.

In conclusion, seeking help to declutter your home is a brave and practical step anyone can take. By acknowledging that you’re not alone and accepting help, you can overcome the shame that often comes with this process. You want to live in a space that reflects your values and supports your mental well-being, so stop waiting and ask for help today! A clutter-free environment will transform your life and allow you to live in freedom.