The concepts of 'decluttering' and 'tidying up' may seem straightforward at first glance, but when faced with a mountain of belongings and packed storage, knowing where to begin can prove challenging. Having a clear vision of your desired outcome is crucial.
Professional organizers suggest that a vision board can be the perfect solution to this dilemma. Here's how a vision board can aid your decluttering process, step-by-step instructions to create one, and its motivating benefits to get inspired to declutter.
How a Vision Board Supports Decluttering
Visualizing your end goal isn't a new strategy in the decluttering world. Professional organizers consistently recommend this approach to help individuals persevere through the process of clearing out their homes and even letting go of sentimental items.
However, it can be tough to truly envision your ultimate goal, which is where a physical vision board becomes invaluable, guiding your decluttering efforts and preparing you for a successful decluttering session.
'A vision board serves as a visual depiction of your objectives and desires in a particular context. While it may not resonate with everyone, for clients who process information visually, it can be a powerful tool to stay focused and make informed decisions during decluttering and organizing,' says Audra George, a professional home organizer and owner of Pretty Neat: An Organization Solution. 'It literally provides them with a reference point for their space that they can consult when making choices.'
With over 12 years of experience helping clients, Audra is passionate about assisting others in organizing their homes and streamlining busy family lives.
Creating a vision board before diving into decluttering and cleaning has numerous advantages, as noted by Stephanie Deininger, a professional organizer and owner of The Organized Flamingo. Not only does it offer smart storage ideas for what you choose to keep and inspiration for displaying it, but it can also assist in budgeting, Stephanie explains.
'This tool is great for estimating the cost of the items depicted in the pictures. Just remember, your space is unique to you and should reflect your life, rather than resembling someone else's space,' she emphasizes.
Stephanie has spent over 20 years helping individuals and organizations get organized. She is also a member of NAPO National and NAPO Colorado Chapter (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals).
Creating a Vision Board for Decluttering
Making a vision board is somewhat akin to creating a mood board for your home design; instead of gathering images of fabrics and furniture, you collect pictures of tidy, organized spaces that will inspire you to clean and declutter.
1. Choose Between a Physical or Digital Board
Ensuring that you regularly view your vision board is crucial to its effectiveness; otherwise, it defeats its purpose.
For some, crafting a physical board or printing it out to display in the decluttering area can be beneficial. Others may prefer creating a digital board to use as their phone wallpaper for convenience.
Whichever method you opt for, both can be equally motivating, according to Beth Lennon, a professional organizer and owner of Destination Decluttered: 'Whether it's a digital vision board or a traditional collage of photos, these visuals help you maintain focus on your goals throughout the decluttering process.'
As a decluttering life coach, Beth grew up in a home filled with collectors, antiquers, and creatives, all while navigating her own challenges with ADHD. She understands the thrill of the hunt and the overwhelm of dealing with excessive clutter.
2. Keep It Straightforward
Organizer Audra George cautions against allowing the vision board creation process to extend longer than the decluttering itself. She suggests initiating the process by jotting down your goals and sourcing images that embody your vision for the space. 'Keep it simple,' she advises.
'Set a specific timeframe for gathering your dreams and aspirations,' she recommends. 'Don't let this slow down your decluttering and organizing efforts.'
3. Choose Images That Inspire You
Similar to designing a home that reflects your personality, select images of organized spaces that resonate with you. Don't overthink why you're drawn to each image; simply save them. You'll likely discover an underlying theme.
'Curating inspiring photos for your vision board helps you connect with your current self, stay focused on your ideal future, and recognize what from your past may no longer align with the life you desire,' explains Beth Lennon, professional organizer.
After gathering your images, identify common themes. You might notice a trend towards organized closets by color, specific storage baskets, or kitchens filled with uniform glass jars for decanting food items. These insights can inform your goals and energize you to get started.
Snack Glass Canisters: View at C2B
These handblown containers represent the kind of aspirational storage you might feature on your vision board. They come in various sizes and offer a modern twist on a pantry essential.
4. Refer to Your Board Throughout the Process
If you glance at your vision board once and forget about it, it won't be effective, warns Audra George, a home organizer. Instead, keep it in view as you work, which will help you make more thoughtful decisions.
'When deciding whether to keep or discard an item, consider whether it brings you closer to your vision and goals. As you declutter, you'll gain clarity on the space you have and how to implement your goals effectively,' she adds. 'Remember, your space may never look exactly like the pictures you see; practicality is crucial in real-life settings.'
FAQs
What is the psychology behind vision boards?
Vision boards function as powerful visualization tools that can inspire you to pursue your goals. Placing a vision board in a location where you see it regularly acts as a constant subconscious reminder of your objectives, enhancing motivation and openness to opportunities that align with your goals.
How often should you consult your vision board?
For a vision board to provide the desired motivational effect, it should be positioned where you can view it at least once a day. This could be in your workspace, bedroom, or kitchen, or as a digital background on your phone or computer.
'Using a vision board can be a valuable strategy for decluttering, as long as it serves as a source of inspiration rather than a tool for comparison,' concludes home organizer Stephanie Deininger. An essential lesson in decluttering is recognizing that every space is unique, and a lived-in home may not always appear spotless.
Utilizing a mood board can also boost your motivation to clean if you need an extra push.
