How to Set Personal Organizing Rules (and When to Break Them!)
One of the biggest challenges in decluttering is deciding what to keep and what to let go of. It’s easy to get stuck in decision fatigue, staring at a pile of belongings, unsure of where to start. That’s why I always recommend establishing clear organizing criteria before you begin sorting.
Setting Your Own Organizing Criteria
Creating simple decluttering guidelines makes the process so much easier. Here are some examples of how to set limits:
Clothing – “I’m only keeping these sizes” or “I will only keep what fits on this section of my closet rod.”
Dishes – “Ten coffee cups, that’s it!” or “Only the barware that fits in this cabinet.”
Books – “I’m keeping this many shelves’ worth” or “Only books published before (or after) a certain date.”
Whatever makes sense for you—define it, write it down, and keep it visible while you sort. Make a note in your phone or post it on a sticky note or a sheet of paper so you can stay on track.
Then, go through your items. Anything that meets your criteria? It stays—as long as there’s space for it. Anything that doesn’t? It goes. Simple, right?
Well… mostly.
When It’s Okay to Break the Rules
As professional organizers, we always encourage people to stick to their decluttering plan—but we also know there are moments when you need to give yourself grace.
Here’s an example from my own life:
I once sorted my scarf collection using very specific organizing guidelines. I decided how many scarves could fit in my designated space and even categorized them by fabric type—cotton, linen, silk, wool. But then I came across one special scarf.
It was my mom’s. She wore it often, and I loved seeing her in it. It wasn’t the “right” fabric, but it felt wonderful to wear. It had my favorite color, my mom’s favorite color, and even colors my sisters and close friends love. Every time I put it on, it made me happy.
So, I kept it.
And that’s the point—sometimes an item has sentimental value beyond logic. Sometimes, it’s okay to bend the rules for something that genuinely brings you joy.
Structure First, Flexibility Second
If you’re struggling with decluttering, I always recommend starting with firm organizing criteria. Give yourself some structure—it helps keep the process from feeling overwhelming. But as you go, be kind to yourself. You’re allowed to make exceptions for things that truly matter.
By creating guidelines and giving yourself permission to adapt, you’ll be able to make decluttering decisions with more confidence—and less stress.
If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Visit pinkyjackson.com to schedule a free assessment. We would love to help you with our Onsite Organizing services if you are in the Louisville, KY area or our Virtual Organizing services if you are more remote or prefer to work online.
Pinky Jackson is an Organizing Expert and Decluttering Specialist. She and her team organize homes & small businesses in Louisville, KY. For more information about Pinky’s pricing & services or to schedule your free assessment, go topinkyjackson.com
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