As we move into 2024, this is a good time to clear out the old and get ready for the new by doing a little decluttering. The benefits of clearing space are many, both in the physical sense of making room and putting objects in order, but also mentally to release stress and anxiety. The trick is knowing how to get started.

Star Hansen is an author and organizational expert who has helped many people get their spaces in order. She recently shared her best tips and tricks with NPR in a story called “The decluttering philosophy that can help you keep your home organized.” Star says it starts with understanding your clutter.

Hansen says everyone’s clutter tells a personal story. “What becomes clutter and where your clutter accumulates can say a lot about what’s going on with you. If you have unwanted piles of stuff accumulating around your house, ask yourself: “What’s making this hard to get rid of?” she says. “A lot of times, the trip-up is from holding on to the past or wanting a different reality than the one we’re living in.”

Another important suggestion she makes is to get started is to focus on taking smaller bites at the clutter.

You can also work within short time constraints. Say you only have an hour to declutter your home this week. Hansen says to divide that time into 20-minute intervals. For the first 20 minutes, look for trash to throw away. The next 20 minutes, identify anything you want to give away or donate. Spend the last 20 minutes putting items back where they belong.

Learn the rest of her five tips by reading the rest of the story.