Post-Holiday Decluttering: Why You Should Give Yourself Permission to Rest
Welcome to today’s blog, inspired by a recent live episode of my podcast, recorded with you all in mind! If you’re joining from the podcast, don’t forget that I love to record these episodes live on Instagram and Facebook to create a space for real-time conversations about how to declutter after the holidays. It’s a co-creative process, and that connection with you is everything.
So, we’re diving into post-holiday decluttering today—yes, that time of year when the toys are everywhere, the gifts are stacked up, and the overwhelm creeps in. I know you might be thinking, “I need to declutter right now!” And guess what? It’s okay if you want to, but I’m here to tell you it’s also okay if you don’t. Yes, you heard that right. I’m giving you full permission to take a breather, enjoy your space, and rest.
The Case for Resting After the Holidays
While I talk all year about the importance of decluttering, there’s something special about this time of year that deserves a break. You’ve been through the holiday hustle—planning, hosting, gift-giving—and now it’s time to relax and enjoy your family and home. If you’ve been decluttering throughout the year, you’re in a good spot. You’ve done the work, so let this be your time to just be.
This year, especially after everything 2020 and 2021 have thrown at us, it’s crucial to recognize that rest is essential. We’re living through times filled with unpredictability and uncertainty, so it’s okay to step back and recharge. I’ve been preaching pre-holiday decluttering since November because I genuinely believe in preparing early. But now that the holidays are over, I’m saying: breathe. You don’t have to declutter right this second.
The Influx of Holiday Gifts: To Declutter or Not?
I’ll admit, the idea of receiving a bunch of new things and immediately feeling like you have to get rid of old stuff can feel off. It’s like, we just spent time giving and receiving, and now we’re supposed to turn around and toss things out the next day? It feels a little jarring. I relate this to the Thanksgiving and Black Friday paradox—where we spend a day being grateful and then wake up at 4 a.m. to buy more stuff. Let’s aim for balance.
If you decluttered before the holidays, there’s a good chance you made room for the new things, so why not take this time to enjoy them? It’s okay to wait a few weeks before deciding what stays and what goes.
Reflect on the Holiday Season
Before diving into decluttering, I encourage you to think about how this holiday season felt for you. Did you overspend or feel overwhelmed by gifts? Were there things you loved and things that stressed you out? Use these reflections to guide how you want to approach the next holiday season.
The best time to plan for the next holiday season is right after this one. I’ll remind you again next November, but start laying the groundwork now. How do you want next year to feel? Begin thinking about how decluttering and intentional living can help you create that holiday experience.
Why Toys Shouldn’t Be Your First Decluttering Priority
If you’re feeling like the toys are taking over, I get it. Toys are often the first thing moms want to declutter, and for a good reason—they’re everywhere! But I actually think toys shouldn’t be your first target. Here’s why:
- It’s Not Fair to Blame the Kids: Your kids didn’t buy those toys, and they aren’t the ones responsible for organizing them. As the parent, you hold that responsibility. Blaming them or their stuff isn’t addressing the root of the problem.
- You Need Experience in Decluttering First: Decluttering is a skill, and before you tackle your kids’ toys, it’s important to have a good handle on your own belongings. Many of the reasons kids are resistant to decluttering—feeling overwhelmed, wanting to keep things they like—are the same reasons we, as adults, struggle too.
- Lead by Example: Decluttering is more effective when you lead by example. Instead of jumping straight to the toys, start with areas of your home that are within your control. Show your kids what it looks like to take ownership of your things, and they’ll be more likely to follow your lead.
Avoiding the Quick Fix: Address the Root Issue
Here’s a tough truth: If you’re overwhelmed by clutter, the root issue isn’t the toys, it’s you. You’re the leader of your home, which means the responsibility for what’s inside your house falls on your shoulders. If you want sustainable change, you need to address the deeper issue of how clutter is being managed in the entire home, not just the toy bin.
I know it’s tempting to start with toys because they’re the most frustrating, but if you want long-lasting results, start with your own things. Gain the skills, build the habits, and involve your family in the process.
When It’s Okay to Declutter Toys
That said, if you’re itching to declutter toys right now, focus on the obvious stuff—broken items, things with missing parts, or toys your kids haven’t touched in years. You don’t have to involve your kids in every single decision. If it’s trash or something they genuinely won’t miss, it’s okay to make the executive decision to let it go.
Wrapping It Up: Rest, Reflect, and Declutter (When You’re Ready)
To sum it all up, I want to encourage you to rest and enjoy your home after the holidays. Reflect on what worked for you this holiday season and what didn’t, and start thinking about how you can prepare for next year. When you’re ready to declutter, start with your own things, lead by example, and make this a family process.
I’ve got a full Toy Decluttering course for you in this 11 course decluttering bundle to help guide you through post-holiday decluttering, so don’t worry—there’s support coming your way when you’re ready to dive back in!
Until then, give yourself permission to take a break. You deserve it.
