Why this decluttering expert wants you to 'be fussy' at home

We accumulate a lot of stuff throughout our lives. We're sold the idea that the more stuff we have, the happier we will be — but studies have shown the opposite to be true.

Downsizing is key. But the thought of decluttering often stands in the way of action. We reached out to decluttering expert, Jo Carmichael, for her tips to make the process as easy and effective as possible.

Jo spends her days decluttering homes and is here to make your downsize a reality. Jo has seen the difference downsizing and decluttering can make firsthand. The flow-on effects to productivity, satisfaction and lifestyle are huge.

Here are Jo's five steps to a successful declutter and downsize:

1. Spark Joy

The classic decluttering philosophy by Marie Kondo says that you only keep items in your home which spark joy. If you don't love it, don't keep it. This is absolutely essential when trying to downsize. Suddenly, you simply don’t have the space to keep things that you don't really need and want.

2. Be ruthless

It's easy to become overly sentimental when downsizing and decluttering. Instead, put yourself in a pragmatic headspace and get a less emotional friend around to help you make good decisions.

3. Everything needs a home

When deciding on what stays and what goes during downsizing, think about your new space. Do not keep anything that does not have an obvious and practical home. This is the easiest way to avoid clutter building.

4. Be fussy

Pick a simple colour scheme or visual style and only keep things that really fit within that. Treat your own belongings as a store and only keep what you would buy again right now. Edit your own things.

5. Back to basics

What do you NEED? Think about the absolute essentials you need in your home to be functional and joyful. Prioritise those items.