I Asked ChatGPT How to Live Like a Minimalist—Here’s the 20-Item Declutter Plan
Here's a simple yet powerful decluttering plan, designed by ChatGPT, to help you embrace minimalism with clarity and intention. Learn how to remove what no longer serves you and create space for peace, focus, and meaningful living.
- Tricia Quitales
- 6 min read
Minimalism is not about owning less but about making room for more of what truly matters. After asking ChatGPT for guidance, I followed a 20-item declutter plan that redefined how I view my belongings and my environment. Each step invites you to let go of unnecessary clutter and appreciate simplicity in every part of your life. By the end, living with less feels liberating, purposeful, and deeply fulfilling.
1. 1. Start with Your Closet

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Begin your minimalist journey by assessing your clothes. Keep only the pieces that you wear often and genuinely love. Donate or recycle the rest to free up space and clarity. A tidy closet creates a sense of calm and order each morning. Owning fewer items also makes choosing outfits effortless and stress-free.
2. 2. Tackle Your Shoes

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Shoes often take up unnecessary space when we keep pairs we rarely wear. Select versatile and comfortable ones that fit your daily needs. Let go of outdated or damaged pairs without guilt. Store the remaining ones neatly for easy access. Simplicity in footwear reflects thoughtful living.
3. 3. Clear Out Your Desk

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A cluttered workspace can drain focus and creativity. Remove unnecessary papers, broken pens, and unused gadgets. Keep only essentials that enhance productivity. A clean desk encourages better thinking and motivation. The clearer your space, the clearer your mind becomes.
4. 4. Sort Through Kitchen Cabinets

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Discard expired food items and duplicate utensils. Keep what you actually use and appreciate in your cooking routine. Simplify your kitchen tools to what truly supports your lifestyle. Clean shelves make meal preparation more enjoyable and efficient. A minimalist kitchen promotes calm and mindful eating.
5. 5. Declutter the Bathroom

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Get rid of old products, empty containers, and items you never reach for. Arrange your toiletries neatly in one or two accessible spaces. Keep only what you use daily and what makes you feel refreshed. A minimalist bathroom supports a peaceful morning routine. Order in small spaces encourages daily calm.
6. 6. Simplify Your Bookshelf

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Books hold memories, but not all need to stay. Keep the ones that inspired or educated you most. Donate unread or unneeded books to share knowledge with others. A smaller library highlights the volumes that matter most. Simplicity in reading choices helps you focus on true growth.
7. 7. Clean Out Your Drawers

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Drawers often hide random clutter that adds no value. Empty them completely and evaluate every item. Keep only what has purpose or meaning. Reorganize with dividers or small containers for order. Every time you open a drawer, you’ll feel a sense of calm instead of chaos.
8. 8. Evaluate Decorative Items

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Too many decorations can overwhelm the atmosphere. Choose pieces that bring joy or represent your story. Remove duplicates or items that no longer align with your taste. Minimal decor enhances space and beauty naturally. Let your home breathe with intentional simplicity.
9. 9. Organize Digital Files

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Digital clutter can be as stressful as physical clutter. Delete unnecessary photos, downloads, and documents. Create folders for essential files and back them up securely. Decluttering your devices improves focus and speed. A simplified digital space supports a peaceful mind.
10. 10. Simplify Your Wardrobe Accessories

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Reduce the number of belts, hats, and jewelry pieces you own. Choose a few quality items that complement your everyday style. Too many accessories can complicate your dressing routine. Store them neatly to prevent tangling and clutter. Simplicity in accessories brings elegance and ease.
11. 11. Sort Your Sentimental Items

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Emotional attachment makes this step challenging. Keep meaningful items that genuinely bring joy or represent milestones. Photograph others to preserve the memory without keeping the physical object. Sentimental minimalism teaches appreciation without excess. Memories live better in the heart than in cluttered boxes.
12. 12. Minimize Your Paperwork

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Scan and store important documents digitally when possible. Recycle old receipts, outdated statements, and unnecessary papers. Keep essential records organized in one secure folder. Reducing paper clutter makes finding things easier. A minimalist filing system saves time and space.
13. 13. Review Kitchen Appliances

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Assess which appliances you truly use. Let go of duplicates or one-purpose gadgets collecting dust. A minimalist kitchen is more spacious and efficient. Store everyday items within reach and donate the rest. Functionality over quantity brings lasting satisfaction.
14. 14. Streamline Your Pantry

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Check expiration dates and organize food items by category. Donate unopened goods you will not consume. Keeping a simple and visible pantry reduces waste. You’ll shop more intentionally and cook with clarity. A tidy pantry makes healthy eating easier.
15. 15. Assess Hobby Supplies

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Creative hobbies can lead to piles of unused materials. Keep what inspires you and what you genuinely use. Donate extras to community centers or schools. A focused hobby space boosts creativity and enjoyment. Minimalism in hobbies encourages deeper engagement with your craft.
16. 16. Organize Your Entryway

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Entryways often collect shoes, mail, and miscellaneous items. Keep only what you need for daily use. Add small storage, like hooks or baskets, to maintain order. A clean entryway creates a welcoming atmosphere. The first impression of your home should reflect calm and purpose.
17. 17. Review Your Subscriptions

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Cancel subscriptions you rarely use or no longer enjoy. This includes streaming services, newsletters, or monthly boxes. Simplifying commitments saves money and time. Your attention should serve what adds value to your life. Intentional consumption supports minimalist living.
18. 18. Declutter Your Wallet or Purse

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Remove old receipts, expired cards, and unnecessary items. Keep only essentials like ID, cash, and a few cards. A lighter wallet simplifies your daily routine. Cleanliness in small things reflects overall order. Minimalism should follow you everywhere you go.
19. 19. Reassess Furniture

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Too much furniture can make a room feel cramped. Keep pieces that serve a clear purpose or bring comfort. Remove or donate extras that clutter your space. Open areas promote calm and freedom of movement. Let simplicity define your living environment.
20. 20. Create a Maintenance Routine

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Minimalism is not a one-time project but a continuous habit. Schedule time each month to review and reset your spaces. Prevent clutter from building up again by staying intentional. Small efforts consistently keep your home balanced. Maintenance ensures that minimalism becomes a lasting lifestyle.