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Your Ultimate Fall Reset: Deep Cleaning & Goal Setting

This post is about Your Ultimate Fall Reset: Deep Cleaning & Goal Setting.

Fall has arrived, and seeing the beautiful hues as the leaves change color is my absolute favorite. And one thing I am looking forward to my ultimate fall reset, focusing on deep cleaning and goal-setting as I embrace the season.

This year, I experienced Fall in Dublin and Galway, Ireland; London, England; and across Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey. As a fall-loving Texan, I soaked it all up—our falls at home can be less than stellar—so it’s been a delight experiencing the season around the world. That’s a flex, right?

Over the past month, I’ve been on 11 flights, traveled to 2 countries, and visited 3 states. I’ve been away from home more than I’ve been in, and your girl is exhausted! While I’m grateful for the opportunity to travel, my couch and bed have been calling my name.

Cluttered Space

I remember stepping into my house a week ago, thinking, “I need another declutter session.” If you’re like me, you probably have items tucked away in your closets, telling yourself, “I’ll get to it next time.” And then, next time turns into years later. I know we talk about spring cleaning often, but fall is a great time for a fresh start as well. The slowness of fall is the perfect time for some deep cleaning, reflection, and goal setting. Let’s dive in!

The Decluttering Calendar / Deep Cleaning Tasks

First step, I’ve set aside the next 4 weeks with a structured, room-by-room decluttering plan and cleaning goals for your fall reset.:

  • Week 1: Bedrooms, Personal Spaces & Closets
  • Week 2: Living Spaces & Home Office
  • Week 3: Kitchen & Pantry
  • Week 4: Bathrooms, Laundry & Storage Areas

Often, my decluttering sessions are short-lived because I try to rush the process. I just want to be honest! I’m in a place where I am trying to eliminate hurrying for no reason and give things time. This 4-week process will help break things down and set realistic deadlines, allowing us to spend dedicated time with different parts of our homes. Please note, this is just encouragement should you want to save your coins and not hire professional house cleaners. I love having my home cleaned, but I also love doing it for my mental well-being too! My goal is to do better with a regular cleaning schedule so that I’m not doing these major decluttering sessions as often.

Pro Tip: When cleaning out your spaces, you might have things that are gently used or never been worn. Consider donating to a local thrift store or shelter or selling your clothes to places like Plato’s Closet or Uptown Cheapskate. I personally only use Uptown Cheapskate, and I will say, lower your expectations. But I have sold tons of clothes and made up to $500 total in a calendar year!

Clear Vision: Reflect, Review, and Set New Intentions

Alongside this decluttering process, I’ll take time to reflect on the past season and review any existing goals or resolutions. What went well? What could I have done differently? What has been improved since last year? I’ll note lessons learned and identify areas that need more attention. I encourage you to do the same. We don’t have to wait until January 1 to begin new goals.

My goal as I declutter is to spend that time reflecting, rather than jumping right into goal-setting. Once everything is decluttered, I’ll set 3-5 SMART goals to focus on in the coming months, each paired with actionable steps and deadlines to keep me on track. I may even establish new habits and routines to support these goals.

In my personal opinion, a clean home makes me feel so much better. I sleep better too. And if you’ve had a busy season like me, I hope this mini guide and reflection will help you pay special attention to your space. Remember, the cleaning process is a process, and you don’t have to rush it. Take your time, do what you can, and have a little fun with your favorite playlist in the background!

1. Envision or Reimagine Your Space

Envision:

Between school and traveling, I have fallen off with this. Anyone relate? Nonetheless, there’s no time like the present to get back to it. When you think about the rooms in your personal space, how do you want to feel? What will decluttering, cleaning, or even moving things around do for you mentally?

Example: When I walk into my home, I want it to embody peace. I want less clutter crowding high-touch areas. I’m all for the spa-like, tranquil feel. Decluttering will help me feel less frantic and rushed, and I won’t waste time trying to find things because everything will have its place.

Reimagine: Picture a typical day in your home: waking up in a clutter-free bedroom, preparing meals in an organized kitchen, or unwinding in a cozy, clean living room. This vision will guide your decluttering and organization decisions. Remember, there are things to keep and things to let go.

2. Fall Reset Reflection Questions

As you’re decluttering, think through some of these questions. You don’t have to write these down, but you can if that’s your thing. Allow these reflections to guide your mind prior to goal-setting.

  • Home Environment:
    • What is one thing in my home that brings me joy? How can I bring more of this energy into my space?
    • Which areas feel chaotic or overwhelming? How does that impact my mood or productivity?
  • Personal Growth:
    • What has this past season taught me about myself and my needs?
    • In what ways do I want my home to reflect my personal growth and well-being?
  • Self-Discovery & Authenticity:
    • Who am I becoming, and how does this align with who I want to be?
    • In what ways can I show up more authentically in my relationships, work, and personal life?

3. Goal Setting

Sometimes, goal-setting can feel daunting. Does it really work? On my end, I know that sometimes I think so deeply about the process that I forget there are baby steps to get there. Here are just a few prompts to think about:

  • Goals & Vision:
    • What are three personal goals I want to work toward by the end of the year, and what are the first steps I can take?
    • What would a balanced, fulfilling life look like for me? What small adjustments can help me work toward this vision?
    • Is there a passion or interest I’ve been putting off? How can I prioritize it in the coming months?

One goal of mine now that travel is winding down is to attend Pilates (including hot Pilates) twice a week. I truly love how it makes me feel. I’ve tried yoga, and it’s just not my thing. But Pilates brings me joy—and it’s intense. Oh, and it’s lifting the booty! HAHA.

The Path Forward

As we settle into fall, let this be a season to clear both physical and mental clutter, create a vision for your space, and set intentions that support the best version of yourself. Take time to embrace a sense of purpose in your home and personal life. Reflection, intention, and goal-setting can bring clarity and peace that make all the difference in how we experience each day. This fall, give yourself the gift of a fresh start—whether that’s in a newly organized space, a reimagined routine, or a renewed commitment to your goals. Here’s to your ultimate fall reset! 🍂

This post is about Your Ultimate Fall Reset: Deep Cleaning & Goal Setting.

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