When Getting Organized Feels Like Too Much
Crisp white empty box sits on a table
If you’ve resolved to get more organized and you’re already feeling overwhelmed—or maybe just unsure where to begin—you’re not alone. I hear this all the time, and I want you to know something right away: that feeling doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. It usually just means you’re trying to think too far ahead. Organizing involves a multi-layered plan that often changes as your needs & resources become clarified. It’s a series of decisions, actions steps, and phases. Choosing the right process for this moment in your life can change everything.
Finding the Right Phase for Right Now
When someone is starting for the first time, or starting again after a long break, I like to slow things down and ask a simple question: What phase of organizing would serve me best right now? For many people, the answer is decluttering—plain and simple. Letting go of things you don’t like, don’t use, don’t need. Items that are expired, broken, chipped, or just extra. That phase alone can bring so much relief. If it’s been more than six months since you’ve done that throughout your home, it may be time to revisit it. And sometimes—even if it’s only been a couple of weeks—it’s okay to do it again. Life changes, and our homes respond.
Letting Decluttering Be Enough
Decluttering is a beautiful place to begin because there is very little you need to do, buy or plan to make great progress. You just need to reserve time on your schedule (or take action when you feel inspired to get started) and grab whatever bags of boxes you have on hand to collect items that you can release. You don’t have to solve everything. You don’t have to think about bins, labels, or color coordination yet. Those things can come later—and yes, they are wonderful. I love them, and I love creating those systems for my clients. But they’re not the first step when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Giving yourself permission to stay in this phase helps you avoid that harsh inner voice that says you’re behind or not doing enough. You’re simply doing this part right now, and that is more than enough.
Releasing the Pinterest Pressure
If part of your stress comes from feeling like your home doesn’t look like something you’d see online, I want to gently reassure you—that’s okay. Truly. Even some of those homes don’t look like that all the time. Organizing isn’t about creating a picture-perfect space. It’s about creating a home that supports you, where the volume is manageable and the choices feel lighter. Progress matters far more than perfection.
Every step you take—every bag donated, every drawer cleared—is meaningful. Those small moments add up to a home that feels calmer and more livable. Organizing doesn’t need to be rushed, and it doesn’t need to be flawless. It just needs to meet you where you are right now.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Kelli McClintock @kelli_mcclintock
