When it comes to organizing our spaces, sometimes we need more than just the simple question, 'Does it spark joy?'. A structured approach can motivate us to clear out the clutter without hesitation.
Enter the 12-12-12 decluttering method: identify 12 items to discard, 12 to donate, and 12 to return to their designated spots.
These decluttering strategies provide a framework, removing the emotional hesitation that can complicate the process.
Understanding the 12-12-12 Decluttering Challenge
We've discussed methods like the 'move out' approach, which prompts us to think about what we'd take to our dream home, and the 'ski slope' method, which organizes spaces into manageable zones.
If your storage is overflowing and you've been postponing tidying up, the 12-12-12 challenge may be just what you need to kickstart the process.
What is the 12-12-12 Decluttering Challenge?
Joshua Becker, the mind behind The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life, available for free with an Audible trial, introduced this challenge to simplify decluttering into manageable tasks. 'The concept is straightforward: find 12 items to toss, 12 to donate, and 12 to return to their rightful places. Repeat as needed,' he states on his site Becoming Minimalist.
This method turns decluttering into a quick game, with targets that can be accomplished in minutes, helping to avoid feelings of being overwhelmed. It promotes quick decision-making, which is vital when parting with sentimental items. Using a timer can also help create a sense of urgency, making the task feel lighter – after all, sorting through belongings can be draining.
Additionally, this method promotes mindfulness around our items, encouraging us to reflect on what genuinely enhances our living space.
Joshua Becker is a South Dakota-based author who has penned four books on minimalism. After discovering that living with less granted his family more time and freedom, he began inspiring others to explore minimalism on their journeys.
Minimalists' Take on the 12-12-12 Decluttering Method
'While 12 is a fun number, how about starting with just 1?' suggests Kelly Kandra Hughes, a psychologist with a focus on minimalism and decluttering.
'The 12-12-12 method suits those who are ready to declutter emotionally. However, for some, tackling twelve items in each category can be daunting. Begin with one and see how it feels. Maintain that for a week, then you might increase the number,' she advises.
'If starting with one works and you keep steadily decluttering, that's what truly matters, rather than chasing someone else's standard that may not fit your reality.'
Kelly Kandra Hughes, Ph.D., received her psychology doctorate from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. After leaving her academic career, she significantly downsized, aiming to assist others in their decluttering journeys without imposing her standards.
Suggestions for the 12-12-12 Decluttering Method
If you have a lot to clear and want quick results, consider a twist on the challenge: opt for 20 items to donate and 20 to discard. Alternatively, try what cleaning expert Prerna Jain calls the 'reverse countdown method', where you start small, typically with 3-3-3, and gradually increase your count.
'On day one, I look for 3 items to throw away, 3 to give away, and 3 to place back where they belong. Each subsequent day, I increase the count – 6-6-6, followed by 9-9-9, until I reach the final 12-12-12,' Prerna shares.
This approach is akin to the 30-Day Minimalism Game, but offers a more accessible entry point for decluttering novices. 'It fosters a sense of accomplishment and momentum as I ease into the tidying process,' she notes.
Additional tips include incorporating it into your weekly cleaning routine, focusing on specific areas rather than the entire home, and maintaining a donation box nearby. 'Make it a team effort. Everyone can declutter their own belongings,' suggests Eryn Donaldson from The Model Home.
Eryn Donaldson is the CEO of The Model Home, an organization specializing in decluttering and organizing various spaces across the DC metro area and Los Angeles.
Common Questions
What is the 3-second decluttering rule?
This straightforward rule encourages quick decision-making by allowing only three seconds to determine if an item stays or goes. It's useful when you have a few items to sort and struggle with making choices.
'The 12-12-12 decluttering method may seem small, but its effects can be significant,' notes Elizabeth Shields, Operations Manager at Super Cleaning Service Louisville. 'This method fosters organization and a sense of achievement. Letting go of items opens space for a revitalized environment.
Donating also benefits the community while reducing waste.'
