Words by Ali Wenzke, Compass Realtor
Ali Wenzke on the set of “Live with Kelly and Ryan”
“Are you moving again, Ali?” I get this question whenever I tell people I am decluttering. The answer is no — not this time — but I am decluttering as if I were moving. And let me tell you: it feels amazing.
Whether you’re packing up for a big move or staying put for the foreseeable future, decluttering like you’re moving is a game-changer. After ten moves in eleven years, I’ve learned how to lighten up a home — and life — in a way that feels freeing, not frustrating. And the best part? You don’t need a moving truck to get started.
Visualize Your Dream Home
Before you touch a single thing, take a moment to close your eyes and walk through your home in your imagination. Picture every room at its most beautiful — neat, peaceful, and uncluttered. Breathe in the calm. This visualization gives you a goal. A mood. A vibe. Now open your eyes — it’s time to bring that vision to life.
Take “Before” Photos (Yes, Really)
Grab your phone and take photos of each space. We often tune out clutter, but the camera doesn’t lie. These pictures are just for you — no judgment, no shame. Think of them as a helpful tool to pinpoint areas you love and areas that need a little TLC.
While you’re walking through your home, keep a trash bag (and a recycling bag) in hand. Toss what you can as you go — junk mail, dried-out pens, the stack of magazines you forgot you had. Within ten minutes, your home will already feel lighter.
Declutter Like You’re Paying to Move It (Because Someday, You Might)
Even if you’re not planning a move, consider this: every item in your home has weight. Literally and emotionally. When we prepare for a move, we evaluate things differently — we ask, “Do I want to pay to move this? To pack and unpack it?” This mindset leads to better decisions than “Maybe I’ll use it someday.”
Books you’ll never read again? Clothes that don’t fit your style or life? That heavy TV cabinet you filled with T-shirts years ago? If it doesn’t bring joy, serve a purpose, or make the cut in your imaginary moving truck, let it go.
Ali Wenzke’s decluttering check list!
Make It a System (and Make It Fun)
I like to turn decluttering into a mini event. When I declutter with my kids, we set up “The Wenzke Bookstore” or “The Wenzke Toy Store.” We lay everything out, and the kids get to “shop” their favorites. You can do the same with books, dishes, or your closet. Keep what you love, donate what you don’t, and take the donation bags straight to your trunk. Don’t pass go. Don’t let them linger in your hallway.
Donation weekend with The Wenzke Toy Store!
Organize Like a New Homeowner
Once you’ve decluttered, take a fresh look at how your home is organized. Is your kitchen layout still working for you? I recently realized our utensils were on the other side of the kitchen from the dishwasher — not exactly ideal. A simple switch changed our entire kitchen routine. Ask yourself: if I were moving in today, where would I put this?
Stay Motivated with a Podcast or Audiobook
Need a little inspiration as you go? I love listening to organizing gurus like Peter Walsh, Minimalist Moms, or the Wannabe Clutter Free Podcast. Or, if you want a moving-specific boost, check out The Art of Happy Moving — my audiobook filled with practical tips and good vibes. Hearing someone cheer you on can make even a pantry purge feel like a party.
You Deserve to Live Like You Just Staged Your Home
You know that feeling when you’ve staged your home to sell and think, “Why didn’t I always live like this?” Guess what — you can. Decluttering like you’re moving will give you the peaceful, organized home you deserve. Less stuff, more joy, and a sense of calm that’s totally worth the effort.
Happy decluttering, North Shore mamas — you’ve got this!
*Ali Wenzke is one of Chicago North Shore Moms amazing local realtors. Learn more about the awesome Ali Wenzke in Chicago North Shore Moms Meet a Mom Spotlight.
