As an editor focused on organizing tips, I've found that many of our space issues stem from the need to downsize our belongings.
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known as 'The Minimalists', promote a lifestyle of simplicity. Their 'out in the open' decluttering approach is straightforward. After participating in their 30-day Minimalism Game and parting with over 300 items, I decided to try it myself.
Last night, I focused on my living room, which was long overdue for some decluttering.
Understanding the 'Out in the Open' Decluttering Method
If you're planning to declutter your small living room this weekend, this simple trick helps you visualize what can be discarded and encourages you to tidy things up.
Explaining the Decluttering Rule
In a video, Millburn points out that we often hide items in drawers and closets instead of displaying them. He recalls how he and Nicodemus emptied their studio closet to introduce the 'out in the open' principle.
They brought everything into view, emphasizing that this process compelled them to confront their belongings.
My Experience with the Method
I applied this rule to my mid-century wooden TV unit, a notorious spot for clutter. This unit serves a dual purpose, also storing dining supplies since it's close to my dining table. I often use it for quick access to extra placemats, napkins, and candles.
These items would otherwise clutter my kitchen storage, but they are handy for entertaining. Additionally, the unit houses various bottles of wine and spirits, along with miscellaneous clutter.
It's my only enclosed storage solution in the living room; aside from this, I have open shelving, which I adore despite its impracticality. Open shelves require more discipline to maintain because they often contain curated decor instead of simply hiding items. The top drawer of my TV unit is all too easy to fill with clutter, a habit I've developed.
Initially, I felt overwhelmed as I hadn't addressed this drawer since moving in. I chose to tackle it one section at a time to avoid getting discouraged.
Out came dozens of notebooks, assorted paper waste, two old iPhones, a box of envelopes, and many 'new home' cards, keeping only a few favorites.
There were also unidentifiable cords, three vintage Bovril jars I cherish, two packs of playing cards, two pens, and some adhesive remover spray I intended to use on the TV screen. Craft supplies like colored card and wallpaper samples were also present.
Final Thoughts
Seeing everything laid out helped me understand that my messy TV unit stemmed from not having designated spaces for my items. For example, my notepads and craft supplies clearly belong in my home office, possibly in a compact cabinet or a corner bookcase from Wayfair. A wooden drawer unit at Wayfair would be perfect for less attractive office supplies and allows for some decorative displays.
Similarly, I'd like to keep playing cards together with my other games in the TV unit for easy access during game nights this fall.
Aside from a few old bills and a manual for my headphones, there wasn't much that needed to be discarded. I reorganized the drawer to house only items related to hosting and found temporary homes for the rest. While there's still much to sort through, I've made a solid start.
After making progress, I feel inspired to tackle other cluttered spaces I neglected after moving. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the lack of space, I plan to categorize items and determine the best spots for them. It's a gradual process, but it's helping me feel more in control.
