5 Overlooked Areas Holding You Back (and How to Clear Them Out.)

We often think decluttering is all about tidying up our spaces or getting our planner in order—but true clarity goes deeper. If you’re feeling stuck, scattered, or weighed down—even after tackling your home or routines—there might be hidden clutter draining your energy and focus.

In this post, we’re looking at 5 overlooked areas that need decluttering to create real breathing room in both your mind and your home—and simple ways to clear them starting today.

1. Digital Clutter: The Silent Overload

Your brain registers that endless flood of emails, files, and notifications, whether you realize it or not. Digital clutter adds up fast.

Quick Wins:

• Unsubscribe from 5 email lists today

• Set up folders for important docs (I’ve gone back to old school and print out things that are actually important and put them in a file folder so I can actually see them.)

• Delete old apps you don’t use

2. Decision Clutter: Too Many Open Loops

It’s not just physical stuff—every undecided task or project is “open” in your brain, taking up mental space.

Clear It:

• Make a list of 3 “nagging” decisions (e.g., Do I renew that membership? When will I schedule that appointment?)

• Commit to closing one of them this week

3. Obligation Clutter: Things You No Longer Want to Do

Overcommitting = overwhelm. Clutter isn’t always stuff—it’s also the commitments you’ve outgrown.

Declutter Step:

• Identify one obligation that drains you

• Set a boundary or begin the process of stepping back

4. Emotional Clutter: Stuff with Strings Attached

That box in the closet from a relationship that’s long over… the guilt trip about not using that expensive gadget… clutter often carries emotion.

Clear It:

• Pick 1 emotionally-charged item and let it go

• Journal: What am I making this item mean? Is it true?

5. Invisible Home Clutter: Out-of-Sight, Out-of-Mind?

Even tidy homes can hide clutter in drawers, closets, or behind closed doors, adding a subtle weight.

Declutter Step:

• Choose 1 drawer or hidden spot

• Set a 15-minute timer and declutter it fully

Final Thoughts:

Decluttering is never just about “stuff”—it’s about clearing space to breathe, think, and live fully. By tackling the physical, digital, emotional, and mental clutter in tandem, you’ll free up more energy and clarity than you thought possible.

Want guided support as you declutter your life and build lasting systems? Check out what we do here!