Declutter for Lent Challenge | 40 Days to a Renewed You
I designed the Declutter for Lent Challenge because Lent is a season of reflection, simplicity, and renewal. It’s a time to pause, reconnect with your values, and create meaningful change in your life.
One simple yet transformative way to embrace this period is through decluttering. By clearing out the physical and mental clutter, you align perfectly with Lent’s themes of sacrifice and growth.
I decided to declutter two items daily for 40 days because this is manageable. Like you, I am wicked busy at this time and I know 2 items a day will bring me the same profound results it did last Lent.
The only rule is to be consistent! If you have to miss a day – make up for another day. You decide any other rules you want to abide by
Why Decluttering During Lent Is Transformative
Decluttering isn’t just about tidying up your space; A clutter-free home fosters a decluttered mind. Lent is the perfect time to declutter because, again, Lent offers the time for reflection, and decluttering pays tribute to the simplicity, and renewal called for during Lent.
The Connection Between Lent and Simplification
Lent emphasizes sacrifice and renewal, inviting you to reflect on your life and let go of what no longer serves you. Similarly, decluttering is about simplifying and finding clarity. By removing the physical clutter, you’re creating space—both literally and metaphorically—for spiritual growth. It’s a symbolic act that clears away distractions so you can focus on what truly matters.
Mental and Emotional Benefits of Decluttering
I am constantly amazed folks can function in cluttered spaces. I can’t. If you can – more power to you! Clutter and messes stress me out. That’s because clutter can overwhelm your mind. Removing just two items a day for Lent can make a huge difference in how you feel.
As you let go of unnecessary items, you’ll also feel lighter, because you are creating a calmer, more peaceful mindset. During this reflective season, that peace becomes even more meaningful.
Physical and Practical Benefits of Letting Go
Decluttering has real-life benefits too. Freeing up space in your home makes it easier to find what you need and you will find it easier to relax in your beautiful home. Whether you live in a room or a palatial home – this is your nest! Let your space align with who you are.
Plus, letting go of unwanted items you no longer use is freeing! If you donate these goods someone else will get to enjoy them. Isn’t this what Lent and Alms are all about?
It’s empowering to realize material possessions don’t define you. It’s what you do with your space and time that counts.
Grab your free Workbook and get started! This 60-page workbook includes Tips and Tricks on starting and a list of ideas of items to declutter in all your various rooms. Also, track the items you discard!
When you get the free Workbook You will also receive a link to our private safe Declutter For Lent Facebook page. This is where all the free support is! This is a great way to hold yourself accountable.
How to Succeed in a 40-Day Decluttering Challenge
Sticking to a daily habit for 40 days may sound intimidating, but with a clear strategy, it’s entirely achievable. Focus on small, consistent steps, and watch the transformation unfold.
Keep it simple! Find a small area or drawer to declutter. How about the kitchen countertop? If it is a huge counter pick a small area one day and another area the next. When your flat surfaces are free and clear of clutter the whole room looks different!
Setting Your Decluttering Goals
Start by identifying areas of your home that need attention. Whether it’s the kitchen, a crowded closet, or that dreaded junk drawer, picking specific zones helps you stay intentional. Write down your goals, so you have a clear map of what to tackle over the 40 days.
Establishing Simple Rules to Stay On Track
Rules keep your challenge simple and effective. Aim to remove whatever is manageable for you. You can donate, recycle, or discard in the trash. I suggest setting up 3 heavy-duty trash bags and labeling them Donate, Trash, Sell. If other labels make more sense to you roll with it.
This is your challenge. Make it work for you!
Building Habits and Overcoming Obstacles
Create reminders to stay consistent, like setting an alarm on your phone or using a sticky note with your daily goal. Accountability partners, like friends or family, and our Facebook group can keep you motivated. Don’t forget to celebrate small wins—it’s the ‘quick wins’ that build momentum.
Practical Tips for Decluttering for Quick Wins!
A manageable approach can make all the difference. These practical methods will help you stay committed and find joy throughout the process. Well, maybe not joy in the process, but certainly joy in your new clean space!
Start Small! The Beauty of Easy Wins
Start with simple items—like expired coupons, old receipts, or socks without a match. These small wins will boost your confidence and motivate you to take on bigger challenges. The more you realize how quick and effective it is, the more encouraged you’ll feel.
Declutter with Purpose & Question Each Item
When decluttering, ask yourself, “When did I last use this?” or “Why am I keeping this item?” These questions help you decide what’s truly worth keeping. If an item no longer serves a purpose or adds value, it’s time to let it go.
Maintaining a Clutter-Free Lifestyle Post-Lent
Your Lent decluttering challenge doesn’t have to end after 40 days. Maintaining the habits you’ve developed will keep your space and mind clutter-free for years to come.
The Power of One-In-One-Out
Here is a great rule! For every new item you bring into your home, let go of one old item. This habit prevents clutter from building up again and keeps your space balanced. Even if you don’t do this every single time it is a great goal to work towards.
Regular Decluttering Rituals
Add decluttering to your routine. Seasonal purges or quick weekly clean-ups can help you stay on top of clutter and enjoy the order you’ve worked hard to achieve.
Mindful Consumption to Avoid Clutter
Decluttering isn’t just about letting go—on the contrary. Decluttering is about surrounding yourself with the things you love. When things are purposefully placed rather than mixed in with clutter you will enjoy them and your home more.
It’s also about being intentional with what you bring in. Begin the decluttering before you click on the ‘Buy it Now!’ Button. Make thoughtful purchases and avoid impulse buying. By focusing on quality over quantity, you’ll keep your home filled with items you truly value.
Your 40-day decluttering challenge can be the start of something transformative. Each item you let go of during this season is a step toward simplicity, renewal, and clarity. With as little as discarding one or two items a day, you’ll experience how small changes lead to incredible results—physically, mentally, and spiritually.
This isn’t just about clearing space; it’s about creating a life in alignment with what matters most. Ready to start? Join the free Lent decluttering challenge today! A safe, supportive Facebook group awaits you to keep you motivated and accountable.
Don’t worry about starting a few days late or maybe you stumbled into this challenge in July- start whenever and wherever you are!
Marj Bates is a life long ridiculously organized declutter-er and artist. Less is more are words Marj lives by in everything she does except collecting dogs. “Dogs are like potato chips! Can’t have just one.” says Marj. Marj wonders if growing up with a fanatically clean Jewish mom means her decluttering and organizational skills are in her blood.
For more Declutter Buzz & Freebies check out our safe and private Decluttering community on our Facebook page. We are a safe and private space of like minded folks tackling this all encompassing clutter thing once and for all. No shame allowed and always a few laughs!
To see more articles like this, please like and follow me. Thank you!