What is clutter? Is it just the stuff that piles up in your home, or is it something more? I’ve come to think of clutter as a barrier—a physical, mental, or emotional block that stands between you and the life you want to live. It’s not just about disorganized drawers or stacks of paper; clutter can also show up in the form of racing thoughts or lingering negative emotions that prevent you from being present in the moment.

As a mom striving to create a cozy, intentional home, I’ve found that removing clutter in all its forms is key to simplifying life and focusing on what truly matters. Carl Phillips’ 22 Ways to Simpler Living provides practical insights and inspiring quotes that have helped me approach clutter differently—not as something to simply get rid of, but as something to release, creating space for ease and joy.

Here’s how I’ve learned to identify and remove physical, mental, and emotional clutter to embrace simpler living.

What Exactly is Clutter?

Clutter is more than just “stuff.” It’s anything that blocks us from living in the present or connecting fully with the people and moments that matter most.

• Physical clutter: The items that pile up in our spaces, making it harder to feel at ease.
• Mental clutter: Thoughts that distract us or drain our energy.
• Emotional clutter: Feelings or unhelpful narratives that weigh on us.

Let’s explore how to tackle each type of clutter to create a simpler, more intentional life.

1. Removing Physical Clutter

Physical clutter often feels like the most obvious type to tackle. It’s the piles of mail on the counter, the toys scattered across the floor, or the half-finished projects that create visual chaos. For me, physical clutter isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a source of stress that makes it harder to relax in my own home.

Tips to Tackle Physical Clutter:

• Follow William Morris’ Rule: “Have nothing in your houses that you do not know to be useful, or believe to be beautiful.” This quote has been a guiding principle for me as I simplify my home. When deciding what to keep or release, I remind myself to focus on creating a space that feels calm, warm, and intentional.
• Try the Five-Minute Tidy: This simple technique is a game-changer. I set a timer for five minutes and focus on clearing one area—like the kitchen counter, the living room floor, or a cluttered shelf. One of my favorite ways to use this is for quick toy pickup! My daughter and I make it a fun game, gathering toys into bins or designated spots, which keeps things manageable and prevents overwhelm.
• Ask Reflective Questions: Carl Phillips challenges us to consider: “Is more really working for us? How much more do we really need?” These questions remind me to embrace minimalism and resist the urge to accumulate unnecessary items.

2. Releasing Mental Clutter

Mental clutter can be even more draining than physical clutter. It’s the racing thoughts, lingering worries, or constant distractions that pull us out of the present moment. As a mom, I often find myself replaying work tasks in my mind even when I’m trying to focus on family time.

Tips to Clear Mental Clutter:

• Write It Down: One of the simplest ways I clear mental clutter is by writing down thoughts or tasks that are weighing on me. At the end of my workday, I jot down any lingering ideas or to-dos so I can release them until the next day. This practice creates a clear boundary between work and home life.
• Reevaluate Technology Use: As Phillips suggests, “Re-examine how and why we use technology.” I’ve found that setting a timer for social media helps me enjoy it in moderation without letting it take over my day.
• Prioritize Small Pleasures: Creating moments of joy—like savoring a cup of coffee or going for a family walk—helps me stay present and appreciate the beauty in everyday life.

3. Letting Go of Emotional Clutter

Emotional clutter often stems from unprocessed feelings, negative self-talk, or societal expectations of who we should be. For me, exploring my own values has been key to letting go of the “shoulds” and focusing on what truly matters.

Tips to Address Emotional Clutter:

• Acknowledge and Process Emotions: Movement is one of my favorite ways to work through difficult emotions. Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or even just stretching, physical activity helps me release tension and reset.
• Tune into Your Core Values: As Phillips shares, “Tension is who you think you should be. Relaxation is who you are.” Reflecting on what matters most to me—not what others expect—has been instrumental in letting go of emotional baggage.
• Prioritize Nourishment: Phillips also highlights the connection between eating well and emotional clarity. Simple, wholesome meals have become a cornerstone of my routine, helping me feel grounded and cared for.

Living a Life with Less Clutter

As I’ve worked to remove physical, mental, and emotional clutter from my life, I’ve noticed how much lighter and more present I feel. Simplifying isn’t just about creating a tidy home—it’s about creating space for joy, connection, and contentment.

Carl Phillips captures this beautifully:
“Eliminating excess means living a life that can be slightly unconventional by modern standards… perhaps you intentionally create space in your diary and life so you can breathe a little.”

That’s what I want for myself and my family: a life that feels intentional, spacious, and full of meaning.

Final Thoughts

Clutter, in all its forms, can weigh us down and distract us from what matters most. By taking small, intentional steps to clear physical spaces, release mental distractions, and let go of emotional baggage, we can create a simpler, more joyful life.

What types of clutter are you working to remove from your life? I’d love to hear how you’re simplifying and creating space for what matters most!

“Doing less gives us the space we need to fill our lives with what and who is most important to us. It also gives us space to just be.” Carl Phillips