Simplify Your Home Before the Holidays

The holidays are just around the corner — and if your home is starting to feel a little chaotic, you’re not alone. Between hosting guests, planning holiday meals, and keeping up with daily life, it’s easy for clutter to sneak up on you. Here are some tips to simplify your home before the holidays.

Step 1: Start With a “Company-Ready” Zone

You don’t have to declutter the whole house at once. Begin with the areas your guests will see most — like your entryway, kitchen, and living room.

• Start now so you are not rushing to get ready for guests. 

• Check for obvious things that you don’t really use anymore to donate and put items that don’t belong in that space away in their proper spot.

• Focus on one area at a time.

Pro Tip: Set a timer for 15-20 minutes per room — you’ll be amazed how much you can clear when you stay focused.

Step 2: Lighten the Load in Hidden Spaces

Before the holidays hit full swing, take a quick sweep through closets, cupboards, and pantries. Donate unused coats, unused pantry items, or duplicate kitchen gadgets. 

Step 3: Simplify Your Seasonal Decor

You probably have collected a ton of holiday decor over the years. As you are decorating, choose the pieces that really bring you joy and let go of the rest. This creates a calm, welcoming space where you and your guests can relax. Donating holiday decor before the holiday will give someone else an opportunity to enjoy it. 

Step 4: Create One “Calm Zone” for Yourself

Even if your house is full of guests, make sure you have one area that stays peaceful — your bedroom, reading nook, or even a spot at the kitchen table for tea. This becomes your little retreat when you need a moment to recharge during the busy season. 

Step 5: Make Space for What Matters Most

The holidays are about connection, not perfection. By simplifying now, you’re making room — both physically and mentally — for the things that truly matter: good food, great company, and lasting memories.

Ready to Simplify in a Bigger Way?

If simplifying your home feels amazing, imagine how freeing it would be to right-size your space entirely. Whether that means moving to a one-level home, finding a smaller place with less upkeep, or finally getting that lake home you’ve dreamed of — I can help you take the next step.

I’m Myra Jensen with BRIX Real Estate and NW Metro Life.
I help homeowners across the Twin Cities NW Metro simplify their lives and find homes that truly fit. Give me a call to discuss your plans!