Decluttering for Different Personality Types

Find Your Organization Style

Not sure which organizing style fits you best?

Take the free quiz: What’s Your Decluttering Personality?

Ever wonder why some people thrive with color-coded bins while others feel paralyzed by the idea of organizing anything at all?
The truth is, decluttering isn’t one-size-fits-all — and that’s actually a good thing.

If traditional decluttering advice hasn’t worked for you, you might start thinking, “Maybe I’m just not an organized person.”
But the real issue isn’t you — it’s the mismatch between your personality and the method. Trying to declutter like someone else can lead to guilt, burnout, and a house that still doesn’t feel like it’s working for you.

Take the Quiz

Let’s ditch the shame and find your unique organization style.

Here are four common personality types and how each one can declutter with less stress and more success:

The Visual Organizer

You need to see things to remember you have them.
Out of sight = out of mind.
Try:

• Clear bins, open shelving, or labeled baskets.

• Command centers and wall hooks for visibility.

• Avoid deep drawers and opaque boxes — they’ll become black holes.
  

Mindset Shift:
You're not “messy” — you just need visual cues to stay on track.

*Personal Note:
I actually fall into this category — with a twist. I’m a visual person, so I need to see things to remember them. But I’m also a minimalist at heart, which means I don’t like visual clutter. So I’ve had to find a balance — using labels, clean open shelving, and dedicated “zones” to keep things both visible and tidy. It’s a reminder that you can blend styles to make organizing work for you.

The Minimalist-at-Heart

Clutter makes you feel anxious and overstimulated.
You thrive in calm, open spaces.
Try:

• One-in, one-out rules for new items.

• Hidden storage and clean surfaces.

• Simple color palettes and fewer decor items.
  

Mindset Shift:
Simplicity isn’t boring — it’s your form of peace.

The Sentimental Keeper

You form emotional connections with things.
Letting go feels like letting go of memories.
Try:

• Take photos of items before donating.

• Keep one “memory bin” per person.

• Ask: “Would I keep this if I didn’t feel guilty?”
  

Mindset Shift:
You can honor the memory without holding onto the item.

The All-or-Nothing Thinker

You want it done perfectly — or not at all.
Starting feels overwhelming because you don’t know where to begin.
Try:

• Set a 10-minute timer and start anywhere.

• Focus on progress, not perfection.

• Use checklists to stay on track.
  
  

Mindset Shift:
Small wins are success. Perfect doesn’t get the job done — consistent action does.

Ready to simplify in a way that matches you?

Take the free quiz: What’s Your Decluttering Personality?

When you understand how you work, organizing becomes easier, faster, and actually enjoyable.

*This week, pick one area of your home and try organizing it in a way that matches your style — not someone else’s.