MAGIC YOUR MINDSET

✢ THINK IN REVERSE ‘What we call “backward chaining” is an effective way to start a process like decluttering,’ explains Linda. ‘Envisage the last thing you’ll need to do to achieve the perfect result, then gradually work backwards, task by task, until you are at the starting point. This helps you to visualise the path ahead.’

✢ SET YOUR SIGHTS A quick look at Pinterest helps even the most reluctant declutterer aspire to a beautifully curated bookshelf, a simplified closet, or a stylish home office, so create a few boards for inspiration. None of us is living in a show home, but it helps to aim high!

✢ FIND YOUR MOTIVATION This could be something as simple as buying pristine stationery for your desk, getting new clothes hangers or smart storage boxes – or something more ambitious such as creating a home study from a spare bedroom.

✢ MAKE IT MANAGEABLE ‘Don’t think you have to do everything at once – you’ll simply get stuck,’ advises Linda. ‘Think of each task in small chunks. Rather than planning to totally reorganise the kitchen, for instance, start with the cutlery drawer and go from there.’ It can also help to set an alarm for each task so you know there’s an end in sight.