Albert Einstein said it best: “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” That’s how Joshua Becker began his article A Simple Trick for Decluttering: Look at Your Home Like a Stranger, and it immediately got me thinking—wow, that’s brilliant.

We often do the same things over and over, expecting different results. But what if we flipped the script and tried something completely new? That could be the game-changer we need.

Think about it—we tend to clean up a little more when we know a stranger is coming over. And as guests in someone else’s home, we often notice things the homeowner probably doesn’t.

It’s not about being judgmental—it’s just easier to spot hidden clutter or mess when you’re not living with it every day. It makes sense.

Becker capitalizes on this concept of the unfamiliar—what if we could look at our own homes with those same fresh, outsider eyes? The challenge is simple but powerful. Imagine walking into your space for the very first time. What would stand out as cluttered, out of place, or overwhelming?

This exercise disrupts the mental autopilot that lets clutter fade into the background, helping you see your space—and your stuff—with a whole new perspective. Here’s what I learned.

When Clutter Becomes Invisible (And Why It’s Stressing You Out)

We’re hardwired to adapt to our surroundings. It’s called habituation, and it’s what helps us ignore unnecessary distractions—like the ticking of a clock or the hum of an air conditioner.

But when it comes to clutter, this adaptation works against us. The piles of mail, the random knick-knacks, and even that chair covered in clothes all become part of the background. You stop noticing them, but your subconscious doesn’t.

Studies show that clutter increases cortisol levels, the stress hormone, even if you don’t actively register it. Over time, this mental overload can lead to anxiety, irritability, and a general sense of overwhelm.

And the irony–the very things you’ve adapted to ignore are quietly draining your mental energy every single day. Breaking this habituation cycle is essential to decluttering effectively.

The Guest Trick: Seeing Your Home With Fresh Eyes

Becker says to pretend you’re a guest: imagine that an important guest is coming over, and you want to leave a favorable impression. He writes to imagine your boss, in-laws, or an old friend walking through the door.

Then, walk through your home, and you suddenly notice everything. That’s the power of perspective. Looking at your home as if you were seeing it for the first time can help you break through habituation and actually see your space again.

To try this trick, walk into your home as if you’ve never been there. What catches your eye? What feels off? Pay attention to areas that feel cluttered or chaotic.

Better yet, take a photo of each room. If you were listing your home for sale, would this be the photo you would use to show off your space? How does it make you feel?

Viewing your home in a new way, whether through the lens of a camera or as a guest, creates distance between you and the emotional attachments you have to your stuff.

The Psychology of Decluttering: Why It Works and How to Keep It Going

So, why does this strategy work so well? It interrupts your brain’s autopilot mode and forces you to engage with your environment in a meaningful way. By shifting your perspective, you become more aware of the things that no longer serve you, making it easier to let them go. It’s a simple yet powerful way to reset your relationship with your home. I love it.

Momentum is key. Decluttering isn’t a one-and-done event—it’s a mindset. To keep the progress going, schedule regular “fresh eyes” check-ins.

Once a month, revisit your home as a guest would. Make it a habit to let go of anything that’s overstayed its welcome. With consistent effort, you’ll not only reduce clutter but also create a space that feels lighter, calmer, and more intentional.

Theresa Bedford

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Theresa Bedford is a lifestyle and relationship writer with a passion for self-development and to live life to the fullest. She writes about relationships, mindfulness, and simple living. Her work has been seen on the AP newswire, MSN, Wealth of Geeks, Media Decision, and more.