We know that Amaliah is like a Big Sis and sometimes our DMs have been filled with requests for advice on a range of life issues including relationships, friendships or work troubles.
We have started a new segment where we field dilemmas from the community and answer them as frankly as we can with love, truth and honesty.
Need some advice on a dilemma? Send them all here!
Dear Aunt Maya,
I am overwhelmed by the amount of clothes and things I have and I don’t know where to begin to tidy up. It started in Covid, I was ill and so generally couldn’t keep up with tidying up and where previously, I had a cleaner, they couldn’t come during Covid. The house is clean, I keep most of my home clean but my bedroom is a different matter – clothes are piled and I’ve gotten into a bad habit of buying more when I need something to wear instead of sorting things. I have piles and piles and not much storage. I know this sounds like a basic problem and all I have to do is tidy, but for some reason, I am unable to, I’m so overwhelmed where to start so I avoid being in the room. I work and then sit in other cleaner spaces in my home and then go to sleep. I am a clean person, please don’t think this, but this is an area of failing and I want to change and improve but don’t know how to do it alone. Now we are out of Covid, I am too embarrassed to bring a cleaner or someone to help. I also can’t continue like this. I really need some motivation, help and advice. Thank you
Maya Areem Responds:
Salam alaykum,
I hope you’re well inshaAllah.
Thank you for writing to us and for sharing your dilemma here.
Firstly, remember that you have control over your environment, just like you do with the rest of your house. Have faith in your abilities and believe that you can overcome this challenge successfully.
Secondly, try not to worry too much about seeking professional help. It’s their job to assist you, and they will be more than happy to help without judgment. Reach out to professional services that specialize in decluttering and organizing to get expert guidance and support.
However, if that is not an option right now, consider enlisting the support of a trusted friend. Explain your situation and ask for their help in decluttering and providing emotional support. Having a friend by your side can make the process less overwhelming and provide encouragement along the way. With the right friend, this can even be fun!
Now, let’s break down the process into three manageable steps:
- Sort through your clothes and separate them into keep, donate/sell, and discard categories. This will help you declutter your wardrobe and create space.
- Tidy up the surfaces in your bedroom and remove any unnecessary items. Clearing surfaces will make the space feel cleaner and more organized.
- Organize your wardrobe using only the space available to you.
Reward yourself for your progress and effort after completing each step. Allow yourself to feel the relief and satisfaction that comes with accomplishing each step.
May Allah grant you ease!
Love + duas,
Aunt Maya
If you would like some wisdom from Aunt Maya, send in your problems here! Please note Aunt Maya may consult the opinion of others from time to time and ask the Amaliah community for their advice too. Aunt Maya is not a licensed therapist or mental health professional.
