A Fresh Take on Simplicity, Function, and Letting Go
As featured in Homes & Gardens
Your 30s are often a time of transformation — and for me, that couldn’t be more true. I launched a business, moved cities, fell in love, started a family, and moved homes multiple times. With every move and every life shift, I found myself reevaluating not only what I brought into my space — but what I was willing to let go of.
In a recent piece I wrote for Homes & Gardens, I shared some of the biggest things I’ve chosen to declutter in my 30s — and the surprising emotional clarity that followed.
👉 You can read the full article here.
But today, I want to go a little deeper. Because decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of things — it’s about redefining what matters, and creating a home that reflects who you are now, not who you used to be.
The Real Cost of Clutter
There’s a hidden cost to holding onto too much: time, energy, and peace of mind. Every drawer you avoid opening, every closet you dread dealing with — those are tiny stressors adding up in the background of your daily life.
In my 20s, I held onto things “just in case.” In my 30s, I’ve learned that space is more valuable than stuff. Letting go isn’t about loss — it’s about freedom.
A Few Things I No Longer Feel Guilty Letting Go Of:
- Old beauty products
I used to keep drawers full of hair masks, half-used skincare, and random samples. Now? I’ve found what works for me, and I stick to it. Less clutter, more consistency. - Excess gift wrap and decor
I used to love the idea of having a whole wrapping station. But realistically, I grab brown paper bags, flip them inside out, and keep it simple. No bins of seasonal ribbons taking up space. - Childhood memorabilia
This one was tough. But instead of keeping bins of old drawings and schoolwork, I turned my favorites into a gorgeous keepsake book with Plum Print. It’s more meaningful and much easier to enjoy. - Clothing that doesn’t fit my lifestyle
My wardrobe has changed dramatically since becoming a mom and running my business. I stopped holding onto “someday” clothes and started curating a closet that supports my actual daily life. - Extra coffee mugs (yes, even the cute ones)
We all have our favorites — the rest just take up shelf space.
The Emotional Side of Decluttering
Every item we hold onto has a story. Some make us feel warm and nostalgic, but others bring guilt, pressure, or overwhelm. Learning to separate sentiment from obligation is one of the most powerful skills I’ve gained in my 30s — and it’s something we help our clients with all the time.
What This Means for You
Whether you’re in a similar season of change or just feeling the weight of too much stuff, know this: you don’t have to do it all alone. At Ready Set Organize, we help people declutter not just their homes, but their minds — creating systems that work for your life and space.
We bring:
- A calm, supportive presence
- All the right organizing products (no guesswork!)
- A customized plan to make your space work for you
Let’s Make Room for What Matters
If you’re ready to declutter but don’t know where to start — or if you just need someone to take the overwhelm off your plate — we’d love to help.
📍Based in San Diego
💬 Click here to contact us or send us a DM on Instagram @readysetorganize
Let’s clear the clutter and create a space that supports your next chapter.