Cupboards Full of Joy (and nothing else): easy cupboard organization

You know that feeling when you open a cupboard and something falls out at you? A lid with no container, a tangled mess of cords, maybe a water bottle that you got free from a conference five years ago (and don't even like)? Yeah, I’ve been there too.

But here’s the thing I’ve learned—both in my own home and in helping others declutter: the goal isn’t just to have “organized” spaces. It’s to have spaces that make you feel calm, capable, and kind of delighted when you open them.

Let me tell you about a work session that I had with a client recently. We were working in the kitchen and started with a cupboard that was packed full of random items. After a major decluttering (garbage was tossed, donations set aside, and some items relocated), my client began refilling the cupboard - with things that she actually uses and actually likes. When she was done, she stepped back to admire her work. And exclaimed, "This cupboard is full of things I love!"

This didn’t happen because we found the perfect organizing system. It happened because we decluttered first. She let go of the extras, the “just in case” items, the things that made her sigh every time she reached around them. And what was left? Only the things she loves.

Decluttering isn’t about deprivation—it’s about elevation. It's about raising the bar for what gets to live in your home and take up your energy. When you start letting go of the things you don’t love, you make room for the ones you do.

And you know what? It’s so much easier to stay organized when you’re only keeping the things that truly earn their place.

So if your cupboards, closets, or drawers are overflowing right now, here’s your nudge: you don’t have to aim for "organized". You can aim for love. Start small—one shelf, one category, one decision at a time.

Ask yourself:

• Do I use this?

• Do I love this?

• Would I buy this again?

If the answer is no, it might be time to send it on its way. Because you deserve cupboards and closets full of joy (and nothing else).