The 5 things method

Caring for a loved one at the end of their life can be an emotionally and physically overwhelming experience. It’s easy to feel buried under the weight of household chores, especially when combined with the demands of work, taking care of children, and other responsibilities. The stress can build quickly, leaving little energy to manage daily tasks.

One method I found incredibly helpful during this challenging time is The 5 Things Method by KC Davis, LPC. This simple yet effective approach can significantly reduce clutter and make cleaning more manageable, even when life feels chaotic.

The premise is straightforward: in any room, focus on just five categories of items:

Trash
Dishes
Laundry
Things that have a place but aren’t in their place
Things that have no place

Here’s how it works:

Start by throwing away any trash. This quick step instantly clears some visual clutter.
Next, gather all the dishes and take them to the kitchen. (Important: don’t worry about washing them yet—just move them to the sink)
Then, pick up any clothes or linens and place them in a laundry basket.
For items that have a designated spot but are out of place, return them to where they belong.
Finally, collect items that don’t have an assigned place and group them together. You can decide later where they should go or whether they’re needed at all.

By breaking down the process into these five manageable steps, you can create order without feeling overwhelmed. This method doesn’t demand perfection—it’s about progress. It helps shift your mindset from “cleaning the whole house” to simply addressing specific, achievable tasks in each room.

This approach not only reduces clutter but also provides a sense of accomplishment, which can be a much-needed boost during emotionally taxing times. Even small wins, like clearing a counter or tidying a corner, can make your environment feel more peaceful and supportive, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—caring for your loved one and taking care of yourself.

Written By Robin L.