When grief strikes—whether it's the loss of a loved one, a relationship, or a dream—it can feel as though your whole world has been turned upside down. Sadness, regret, guilt, anger, and even unforgiveness can build up, making it hard to think clearly or function day to day.

One thing I’ve learned through my work as a Grief Specialist is this: clearing out physical clutter, calming your thoughts, and tending to your emotions can help you find your footing again. It doesn’t mean forgetting your loss—it’s about creating space for healing and hope.

Let’s gently explore how decluttering your environment, your mind, and your heart can support you in moving forward with purpose and compassion.

Why Clutter Makes Grief Feel Worse

Grief often shows up in both our inner and outer worlds. When life feels heavy, our homes can become chaotic, our minds foggy, and our hearts overwhelmed. Shopping might temporarily soothe the pain—but often adds to the clutter and emotional weight.

I once worked with a client who didn’t realise that grief is not only painful—it’s cumulative. She felt exhausted, lost, and admitted she sometimes struggled to keep going. But through our sessions, she began to rediscover her peace and purpose. With small steps, she began to take better care of herself and intentionally created moments of joy and love for her family.

Step 1: Decluttering Your Physical Space

A messy space can make everything feel harder. But clearing your surroundings—even just a little—can give you a sense of calm and control. Here’s how to start gently:

🧹 Begin with One Small Area

Choose one area—perhaps your desk, wardrobe, or bedside table. Focus on what will give you the biggest sense of relief once it’s tidy. Don’t try to tackle the whole house; it’s too much when you’re grieving.

🧹 Visualise Your Ideal Space

Picture how you’d like the space to look and feel. This helps guide what stays and what can go.

🧹 Declutter in Layers

Dana White (shared on Mel Robbins’ podcast) suggests decluttering in stages:

• First, throw away obvious rubbish.

• Next, put away items that already have a home.

• Finally, decide what stays, what can be donated, and what no longer serves you.

If you’re not sure, create a “quarantine box” for items you’re hesitant to part with. If you haven’t needed them in 3–6 months, it may be time to pass them on.

🧹 Find New Homes for What You Keep

Ask yourself, Where would I look for this first? Then store it there. Label drawers or boxes if that helps.

🧹 Let Go with Kindness

If you’re someone (like me) who sees potential in everything, it can be hard to let things go. Donating to a favourite charity shop might make the process easier, knowing your items will bless someone else.

Step 2: Clearing Your Mind

When you’re grieving, your thoughts can become cluttered and overwhelming. Try these simple tools to create a bit of mental space:

🍃 Sit in Stillness

Spend a few quiet minutes each day simply noticing your thoughts and feelings—without judgement. Breathe gently and allow the noise to settle.

🍃 Write It Out

Journalling can be a powerful way to organise your thoughts and process emotions. It helps reduce the inner chaos and brings clarity.

🍃 Check Your Self-Talk

Notice thoughts like “I’ll never feel better” or “I’m not good enough.” Ask:

• Is this really true?

• What’s one thing I can do today to move forward?

• Can I replace this with a more helpful thought?

🍃 Feed Your Mind Well

Find quotes, affirmations, or books that uplift and encourage you. What you feed your mind influences how you feel.

Step 3: Making Space for Emotions

Grief brings a mix of emotions—sadness, anger, confusion. It’s okay to feel them all. Suppressing your feelings only delays healing. Here are some gentle ways to tend to your heart:

💟 Feel What You Feel

Whether you cry, sit quietly, or vent in a journal—give yourself permission to feel. There’s no right or wrong way to grieve.

💟 Talk It Through

Speak with someone you trust—a friend, colleague, or a trained Grief Specialist. Being heard and supported makes a big difference.

💟 Choose Gentle Self-Care

Take a bath, go for a walk, drink your favourite tea, or spend time with someone kind. These small acts remind you that peace and comfort are still possible.

💟 Be Patient with Yourself

There’s no deadline on grief. You may not be able to change what happened, but you can choose how you respond, what you focus on, and how you care for yourself.

Moving Forward, One Step at a Time

Grief can leave us feeling stuck and surrounded by mess—inside and out. But small steps towards decluttering your space, calming your mind, and processing your emotions can gently guide you back to yourself.

You don’t need to have it all figured out. Progress doesn’t have to be perfect. Just kind. Just honest. Just consistent.

You are not alone. And you don’t have to do this alone, either.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're wondering how well you're really coping with grief, I invite you to read my article and take the free Self-Assessment Quiz:

👉 Is Unresolved Grief Holding You Back?

Or download your free guide: 10 Common Mistakes When Handling Your Grief.

You can also book a free discovery call if you’d like personalised guidance on your journey.

👫 Join our free Facebook community for support, resources, and connection:

Handling Grief Facebook Group

You’re doing better than you think. Keep going.