Uncluttered: Free Your Space, Free Your Schedule, Free Your Soul

by Courtney Ellis

How can we sift through the busyness, the mess, and the stress to uncover the abundant life God offers? Uncluttered is not a formula about what "stuff" you need to give up. It's about slowing down long enough for God to remind you of his truth and what it means to be his child. Through heartwarming, relatable, and hilarious stories, Courtney Ellis shares her journey from a life of stress, stuff, and exhaustion to one of peace, space, and fulfillment.

You'll learn practical tips for paring down your possessions, simplifying your schedule, and practicing the ancient art of Sabbath (even if you are a parent!)

Uncluttered covers 12 relevant Christian lifestyle topics such

Applying Spiritual Disciplines

Practical Lifestyle Tips

Uncluttered ushers you towards a lifestyle of holiness and joy in the Lord. Author Courtney Ellis' sharp wit, clever humor, and profound insights will not only take you on an exciting journey through her walk with the Lord but will also lead you to uniquely experience yours. Find out what happens when you simply put God first.

Genres: Audiobook, Nonfiction, Self Help, Christianity, Christian, Christian Living, Theology

220 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2019

About the author

Author, speaker, and mom of three, Courtney Ellis serves alongside her husband as a pastor in southern California. Born in the northern woods of Wisconsin, she graduated from Wheaton College, Loyola U of Chicago, and Princeton Theological Seminary. Her books include "Uncluttered: Free Your Space, Free Your Schedule, Free Your Soul," "Almost Holy Mama," and "Happy Now: Let Playfulness Lift Your Load and Renew Your Spirit."

Courtney's passions are to find freedom through practicing Christian simplicity, to give and receive hospitality, to play continually, and to live missionally while inviting others to do the same. She also loves candy and hates being told by her dentist that she should eat less candy.

Courtney's words have been featured in Fathom, Christianity Today, MOPS International, (in)courage, The Glorious Table, Huffington Post, The Mighty, Two Peas in a Podcast, Woven, More Than This, and more.

Find Courtney:

* Blog: www.courtneybellis.com
* Twitter: @courtneyellis
* Facebook: authorcourtneybellis
* Instagram: courtney_ellis_ellis

Reviews

[Heather Caliri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Often when I read a Christian book on a practical topic, I brace myself. At some point, I assume, the author will ask me to believe more, or pray better, even if they don’t say so in so many words. A Bible verse I have aspired to and never lived up to will appear in bold print. And with all that exhortation, the author handing out very well-meant but one-dimensional advice, I will sink lower in my chair.
UNCLUTTERED is different. First off, it’s funny, which I think should be a requirement for theologically based how-to books. Also, it’s wise in all the ways that uncluttering is hard or even impossible for some of us—those with young kids may not get a meaningful day of rest; those with chronic health conditions may take church very seriously and yet not be able to attend regular worship services. With her finger kept firmly on the pulse of reality, Courtney Ellis nonetheless paints an enticing picture of simplicity, quiet, rest, and open space.
Seeking simplicity has saved my sanity over and over; but I often haven’t known how to gently encourage others to try this upside-down discipline without shaming them for failing. Now I have a book to hand them, knowing they’ll laugh, feel less alone, and have a clear idea of how to take a tiny step forwards towards less stuff.

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found myself reading Uncluttered this winter, in a season of releasing distractions. My husband and I have stripped our lives down to basics a few times in our 17 year relationship, but the past five years of becoming parents, buying our first home, and hanging on for career rides added up to too much again. We were already experimenting with stripping down our family's calendar when I picked up Courtney's book, and I'd read Abraham Herschel's Sabbath last year and caught the vision (but not the backbone for follow through).

Courtney's practical nudges have resulted in recognizable change. We've actually been scratching the itch to shed layers of build-up after living in the same place for a while. I've finally made the switch I've talked about for years: moving my phone charging station out of my bedroom, away from my nightstand. As simple as it is, it's enough of a change to help me relax into better sleep and wake to healthier habits in the mornings. (My husband followed suit and pulled the TV out of our room as well.) I've beefed up my intentions and follow through in saying No more often. I've been reminded of the vision behind simplified hospitality. And we're talking about instituting a better Sabbath rhythm as an entire family.

Most notably, I've been spending more time in awareness of God's voice in my life. Stillness and smallness has room to thrive when I create more space.

As Courtney shares, "An uncluttered mind—freed from digital distraction, unhealthy preoccupation with possessions, and an overburdened schedule—will begin to awaken to spiritual realities all around."

[Ann Bergen · Rating 5 out of 5]

For years I have wanted to simplify my life, my home, and par down my possessions. With our children now raised, my husband and I have talked longingly of downsizing, but the dilemma of years of accumulating bigger and better has left us with the problem of what has felt like simply too much stuff to go through. Much of the time I’ve blamed my over committed schedule that has kept me from truly organizing my life and decluttering. Not long into my Uncluttered book binge did I discover it wasn’t my schedule or my accumulated clutter that’s been the enemy, it’s my resistance to discern between the good and the best in my life. Yikes! This could be a challenge. A few chapters in, I started small and tackled my disheveled closet. Eight donated bags later, my closet sparkled and my outlook felt brighter. A few chapters more, I began to take a hard look at my frantic schedule. What is really necessary? Where and what do I need to say no to? By the time I approached Uncluttered’s end, I was sold on reclaiming a weekly Sabbath practice that my overbooked and weary soul has so desperately longed for. What once started as a journey into managing my time and “stuff” has quickly turned into a renewed spiritual adventure to reconnect in a deeper and more personal way to the God I love. Am I willing to live with and do less so God can do more and love more through me? Yes please! And thank you Courtney for reminding me of what my mother taught me years ago; that less really is more.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

You know how it feels to go on vacation with only a suitcase full of belongings and the thought of beautiful days of simplicity and relaxation ahead because you've left all of your other possessions behind? Traveling light is a glorious thing. Wouldn’t it be nice to live that way? Time to focus on priorities. Time to listen. Time to hear. Time to discover. This book by Courtney Ellis is the answer.
In a humorous and gentle storytelling narrative, Uncluttered reveals how to change your life and your family's by facing the overabundance in life that is exhausting us and robbing our souls of freedom.
The author's style is refreshing and easy to read. I didn’t put it down until it was finished. Now all that’s left is my part to apply these life changing principles!

[Laura Wipperman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Courtney EllisUncluttered: Free Your Space, Free Your Schedule, Free Your SoulI expected to read a book about de-cluttering to help me simplify my life and free up some space. But enrich my faith walk? Unlock my "sacred yes"? Yaassssss! Thank you, Courtney Ellis for writing with such style and grace, for helping me see that removing is actually adding (Hey, I am no math major, so this actually makes sense, right?). Ms. Ellis teaches us that by getting rid of the clutter in our lives, we can add such richness in our spirit and closeness in our relationships with our Father and with one another.

I love it when I can read a book, and be inspired to DO something! What a feeling of accomplishment to read the chapter on hospitality and then plan a simple dinner for friends and find freedom in the un-fancyness of the menu, find comfort in the conversation and fellowship, find no stress in trying to clean, spruce up the house, get out the good china, etc. Courtney taught me I can serve hot dogs and feel good about that. Because it's not about the menu or decor - it's about the relationships, right?

Another chapter in Ellis' book, the one about generocity, Courtney explains how, by generously giving, we can free ourselves from the clutter of worrying about whether we have enough. She writes that if we cling to what we have, we can't be open to the idea of trusting in God that He knows what we need and always provides. If we can adopt His spirit of abundance, we can freely give. How that calms my heart and warms my soul.

Reading Abundance, by Courtney Ellis, freed allthethings in me! And with such light, easy humor! I needed a read like this amid the craziness of the holiday season. No more crazy! I will be uncluttered by next Thanksgiving!

[Elizabeth Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Decluttering is in vogue these days. Well, this is NOT a book about how best to reorganize your closets. This is a Christian faith-based approach to taming our physical spaces, yes, but also our calendars and the mental noise surrounding us in order to clear the way for a deeper, more fulfilling spiritual and family life.

Courtney Ellis is a pastor and mother of three small children; she knows about jam-packed schedules and messy living rooms, which lends legitimacy to her message. Her writing is easy to read, no-nonsense, and replete with amusing personal anecdotes and references to writings from many authors—from C.S. Lewis to Mo Willems and Eugene Patterson to Laura Ingalls Wilder. She is likeable and relatable, which makes me inclined to try following her advice.

The first section of the book lays out practical steps for reducing clutter in our homes, schedules, and high-tech devices. The next section advises how to then live more simply, more like how God intends us to live. If there is less earthly “stuff” surrounding us, there will be more room for God. There are chapters on sabbath, worship, and listening to God’s voice, for example. Guidance on finances and parenting is also given.

I’ve taken the core message to heart—which might be summed up TRUST GOD—and although I don’t expect I’ll be able to follow her specific examples to the letter, I definitely feel inspired to make some positive changes.

I heartily recommend this book and look forward to more from this new author.

[Mary Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you first pick up "Uncluttered," you may think it is like other books on the market that encourage us to improve our lives by getting rid of excess stuff. Keep reading. Author Courtney Ellis has a much deeper and more meaningful agenda. The space we clear from clutter and the time we free from busyness makes it possible to focus on God and appreciate our many blessings, large and small. We can all do better at fulfilling our higher purpose.

Ellis illustrates her points with believable and humorous stories from her own life as a pastor, wife and mother of small children. Her family has spent a year putting these concepts into practice. You may think that "keeping the Sabbath" is an antiquated notion, But unplugging from social media (and starting the day with donuts) has worked for the Ellis household.

She also supports her thinking with excerpts from notable Christian writers and Scripture. This is a well-thought-out, engaging book.

I was fortunate to have access to an advance copy. The title will go on sale on February 1.

[ToniaS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Honest, funny, realistic, humble and helpful are the words that I think best describe this wonderful book. Not only was it an entertaining read, with so many personal and funny stories from the author's own life woven throughout, but it has been genuinely helpful and encouraging to me as I tackle some of the de-cluttering and organizational tasks on my to-do list. Unlike other how-do books that focus on the subject of de-cluttering, "Uncluttered" goes much further than offering tips on how to pare-down our material belongings. It gently guides readers to re-prioritize the important things in life. The result is not only a tidier home, but so much more...A more restful mind. A peaceful soul. More time and energy for our loved ones and the activities that bring us real fulfillment. It's a quick and worthwhile read for anyone who feels like they're bogged down by STUFF, or like you never have enough time for the things/people you love. "Uncluttered" will help bring balance back to your life.

[Megan Byrd · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been feeling the need to simplify my life. It started with wanting to have a more relaxing, less rushed Christmas but has bled into a desire for simplicity at all times. I read the title of this book and thought it was the perfect time to have it in my hands and read through the principles outlined in the book for uncluttering my life and soul. I was correct. Courtney walks through her experiences of uncluttering different areas of her life - her closet and home, technology, her schedule - in order to make room for more important things - Sabbath, hospitality, hearing God, generosity - and offers us the same opportunity to find more peace and joy through less. A challenging yet practical book for getting rid of the unimportant in order to make room for the necessary. A wonderful read for all of us who feel too busy, stretched too thin, or who know there must be more to life than more stuff.

[Laurie Jacobsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Written from the experience of a young mother, this book offers valuable insight as to how our lives have spun out of control...we are constantly addressing mostly unimportant minutiae with the result that we miss so many of the meaningful joys of life. So, as we are hurtling along at warp speed 24/7, how do we regain control of our lives so we are able to nurture our relationships, savor life's joys and live a truly faith centered life? Ellis humorously, yet realistically, breaks it down for us with very practical steps, chapter by chapter. I wish I had read this book when I was a young mother. Though I'm an empty nester now, I have been deeply impacted by Uncluttered....there is so much packed into this book that I look forward to applying. I will definitely be reading it again! And I will also be giving a copy to each of my two daughters who will soon be starting their own families! Kudos to Ellis for how she, with love and wit, provides strong impetus to unclutter!

[Paul Belcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read through "Uncluttered" once, and I found myself bursting out laughing so many times. The author Courtney Ellis has an amazing whit and an even better gift for expressing that humor in writing. What comes through for me is a hilarious sort of Jim Gaffigan mumbling self talk that I find very engaging.

After reading "Uncluttered", I spent the weekend starting the process of cleaning out my closets and bookshelves. I was able to take six large garbage bags of clothing that I had not worn in decades to a resale shop and two large laundry baskets of books to the local library. I got a spontaneuos hug from a librarian, which doesn't happen every day.

Now that my closets and shelves are in better shape, I will start working on my schedule, social media and soul during my second reading of the book.

Respectfully Submitted By,

Paul Belcher

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is the perfect way to start out a new year or a new stage of life or anytime you need a jump start to get motivated to organize and unclutter your life. Courtney has a wonderful way of being both gentle and firm in her suggestions on uncluttering your home, mind, and spirit. After the first section of uncluttering your home, I felt a push to let go of clothing and possessions and examine why I have so much in the first place. I felt the same conviction to examine my time on screens and reevaluate how I use technology. Get this book if you are ready to unclutter your home and soul.
I received an advance copy of this book but all opinions are my own and were not influenced by the author.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have spent several years trying to simplify and unclutter my life. What I love about Courtney's book is that it combines inspiration as to the why, categories of clutter that we all can relate to, and specific things her family has done with stories of the difference it has made. This book gave me hope that I can take some new clear steps, and it's possible that my life will become less busy, more calm, and I can be more present in each moment of my life. I know so many people who are completely overwhelmed with life, especially parents. I hope many parents take the time to both read, discuss together, and make some changes. We don't have to live this way!

[Brooke Fradd · Rating 5 out of 5]

An honest, practical look at getting rid of those things in life which prevent us from fully worshiping God and living in His promise of abundant life. Ellis provides tips on how to declutter, as well as an understanding of why its a habit we so desperately need to adopt.

Her authenticity is evident as Ellis admits to the ways in which she and her family fall short, all the while giving practical examples of the changes they have adopted in their lives.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Susie Finkbeiner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book felt a whole lot like sitting in the comfy seats at a coffee shop, having a fun and deep conversation with Courtney Ellis. I appreciated the balance in the writing between humor and substance. Not an inch of it was heavy handed. Ellis infused her words with grace. I so appreciated this book!

[Rebecca Moews · Rating 5 out of 5]

When we put up our much loved artificial Christmas tree this season I had a panic attack. I was in between chemo and radiation for the evil cancer, and everything just seemed SO MUCH WORK. Putting up our nine foot tree was too much. I caved. Big time.

The decision to leave the bottom half of the tree in the box (later it was taken to the dump because I do not EVER want to make that decision again) and just put up 4 1/2 feet of lovely tree on a low table SAVED my season. I survived. I had joy. And I could take the whole thing down by myself in the time it took my husband to run to the grocery store.

On Christmas night I started this book. I read half of it before I finally fell asleep. I realized my panic attack and half-tree-decision was the result of what Courtney Ellis, in her book Uncluttered, has defined for me. I was suffering from Decision Fatigue. And it was not just about the Christmas tree.

I work full time and have a family and church that I love. And I have, right now, a battle going with that evil cancer. My life is so full of decisions, appointments, doctors, stress, exhaustion, distractions, noise, pain, relationships, needs, longings, fears, hungers, emotions, and so much else, that I no longer felt the peace that we all long for. I no longer had the joy in the small things. I could not hear the still small voice of God for the noise of what was going on around me, and IN me. The weird part is that I did not even know it. I am a happy person. I have lovely friends who have been an incredible support through this season. I have a wonderful family. I pray. I have a positive attitude. I didn't even realized I was in trouble until I saw it on the pages of this book.

When I started to read Uncluttered I realized I was missing something. I was missing the peace, the joy, the grace, and yes, the SOUND of His voice. It was all around me, and I was not able to recognize it, let alone really hear it.

Courtney puts a name to what is missing, and gives good, solid, practical advice on how to find it again. Slow down, listen, rest, turn stuff off, throw stuff away, go, say no, stop, unplug, call it enough, make less choices, invite God in. Making room in our lives gives us space to breathe, think, pray, enjoy, renew, stay, encourage, invite, spread out, think, open up, consider, and even sleep. It's not about a formula. It's about strategic choices (our own, not hers) that can ground us again, and give us not only a chance to hear God's voice but to have a REASON to hear God's voice.

It won't be easy, but Courtney makes it very clear that anything worthwhile is never easy. Our hearts are worth it. Our spouse is worth it. Our kids are worth it. Our friends and our co-workers are worth it. WE ARE WORTH IT.

Courtney will speak to your heart as she did mine, with humor and grace (no judgement), conversationally and completely open and vulnerable. She has walked this path already (and admittedly continues to struggle toward the goal) and is not asking anything of me that she has not already done.

When I read a book that is supposed to change me, or take a bible study that is very intense, I always ask myself, "What ONE thing can it take away from this? What ONE thing can I do/not do that will make the biggest change?" The really practical part with this book is that the answer to this question can be different for each one of Courtney's readers. For me, UNCLUTTERED is going to be my Word of the Year for 2019 because I don't want to breeze through this lesson. It's going to take me awhile and I am going to make it last.

[Joy Rodriguez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!

“No.-Is a full sentence” is my favorite line from “uncluttered”.
I am a busy nanny and gramma, sometimes from 5am-9pm. Courtney’s book uncluttered; helped me stop and remember: my foundation is time with God and my husband. Since reading the book; my home is neater(less stuff!) and cleaner and I am more relaxed. If all my time is scheduled-cluttered; my home and life cannot be what God and I need it to be. I now keep a devotional book at my nanny home to start my day with God, no matter how early my shift starts. And if I am scheduled all day with children; some of that time is at my home so the healthy dinner I want to make happens, and if possible; the meal is shared with my husband and the children. The book makes you think: how can I reshape my schedule and home to bring peace to all who dwell and share time there; starting with God and me. That is the model Jesus lived for us to follow. Thanks Courtney for clear points and examples we can all evaluate and make simple changes in our own lives.
One month after reading your book: I have more time and energy, I am calmer and more at peace, and my relationships are on a deeper level because when I am with those I love I am more fully in the moment. It’s still a challenge not to jump when a text dings; but I know it will take away from the moment I am in.

Joy Rodriguez

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked this. Listened to audio on hoopla. I’ve read lots of books and listened to endless podcasts on simplifying and decluttering during a season of life that included several big moves in quick succession. I really appreciated how she framed her experience as a spiritual discipline with a heavy emphasis on leading a quiet life so we have room to hear God’s voice and be aware of his work. Though some of her practices are not completely new for someone like me who has read a lot of Marie Kondo and Tsh Oxenrider, her unabashed orientation towards sabbath and hospitality with an appreciation for our faith’s heritage of early monastic practices made this a worthy read. I also appreciated her straight forward approach to the spiritual disease of consumerism and the implications of materialism from a Christian perspective instead of the more generic treatment offered by popular figures today. Would definitely recommend this as a starting point for a Christian who wants to read more about this.

[Katie Nix · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a working mom with three young kids, I usually avoid books about Sabbath and rest because they end up making me feel guilty and overwhelmed. However, Courtney Ellis’ book “Uncluttered” was a beautifully welcomed breath of fresh air to my soul. Her humor and stories made me feel like I was having coffee with an old friend who wanted to pat my back and tell me that I’m ok rather than lecturing me about my failing as a Christian and a mom. Courtney’s writing style is smooth and inviting, and her insights into finding peace and wholeness in our busy lives transformed my outlook and has brought a new level of joy to our family. You will be so glad to read this book, in between the laughter and the “ouch God, maybe you are right about this”, I promise your soul will be revived and refreshed.

[Mandy Stutenberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Uncluttered felt like having a conversation with a good friend - someone who really "gets" me and cares deeply about my well being. Ellis' writing is clear, refreshing, and oh-so-relatable. I found myself chuckling out loud one moment, and getting misty-eyed the next. This book comes at a time when many of us are trying to find ways to simplify our lives to help reduce stress and focus on what really matters. In Uncluttered, Ellis gently, humorously provides tangible and realistic suggestions to accomplish - and sustain! - a freer, less cluttered life. She artfully weaves in stats and quotes that encourage self-reflection and underscore the importance of aligning our values with the choices we make about how we live our lives. I've already been able to implement some of the ideas (e.g., leaving my phone in another room overnight instead of upstairs next to my bed, thinking critically about the impact of taking on something new instead of offering an immediate "yes") and have felt liberated. I'm ordering a couple of copies as gifts - I hope that the recipients will feel as great a connection as I did while reading, and find themselves similarly inspired.

[Connie Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

When a book makes you laugh out loud, and gets under your skin, you know it's a good one. Courtney Ellis' style of writing is so delightful that it's easy and enjoyable to read. But dig down further and she's got insight to life that burrows into your heart and makes you want to do something about it. I literally found myself going to a closet and un-cluttering after just two chapters! But it's her chapters on freeing up space for your soul to breathe that were most encouraging. Highly recommend this book. I'm actually ready to read it again, it's that good.

[Moriah Conant · Rating 5 out of 5]

This isn't another book just telling you to get rid of possessions. This book is filled with wisdom on paring down on what is in our lives AND reminds us of the reason why we want to unclutter- so we can better hear God's voice. Remembering that reason is our motivation is important because it helps us to have better follow through.
"UNCLUTTERED" is divided into two sections. The first is "The Freedom of Less" and it is filled with ideas about how to cut out the unnecessary. The second section is "The Grace of More". Sabbath, hospitality, generosity, and worship are all mindsets or habits to grow in.
This book is an enjoyable but convicting read. Courtney writes about slowing down and saying no as if she is in conversation with a dear friend.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you feeling too busy and stressed to take the time to read a book? Uncluttered is just what you NEED! Making intentional decisions to step off this never ending cycle of busyness and stuff in our lives is the only way to become free to enjoy those thing most important in our lives.

Even though I do try to cut out the clutter of material things by continuously giving away things, my schedule and life has become exhausting. Some things are not so easy to change juggling life with a large family (10 kids), but Courtney's helpful perspective restored more balance and space. She writes with humor, gentleness, and understanding, but also encouragement to dedicate space for deepening your relationship with Christ.

I fall into the trap of "getting things done" and am rethinking my expectations and priorities after reading Uncluttered. It takes intentional effort to unclutter your life, but the rewards are well worth your time.

Just like you, I could easily have said I was too busy to read this book, but in reality I was so busy I NEEDED to read this book! Implement the principles in this book and strengthen the relationships in your life, with your husband, children, friends and most importantly, Christ!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Uncluttered felt like having a conversation with a good friend - someone who really "gets" me and cares deeply about my well being. Ellis' writing is clear, refreshing, and oh-so-relatable. I found myself chuckling out loud one moment, and getting misty-eyed the next. This book comes at a time when many of us are trying to find ways to simplify our lives to help reduce stress and focus on what really matters. In Uncluttered, Ellis gently, humorously provides tangible and realistic suggestions to accomplish - and sustain! - a freer, less cluttered life. She artfully weaves in stats and quotes that encourage self-reflection and underscore the importance of aligning our values with the choices we make about how we live our lives. I've already been able to implement some of the ideas (e.g., leaving my phone in another room overnight instead of upstairs next to my bed, thinking critically about the impact of taking on something new instead of offering an immediate "yes") and have felt liberated. I'm ordering a couple of copies as gifts - I hope that the recipients will feel as great a connection as I did while reading, and find themselves similarly inspired.

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I opened this book I made a beeline for the chapter on schedule as I was drowning in commitments and on a path to "yessing myself to death" and I was able to immediately put into practice her suggestions. Courtney writes with humor, warmth, grace, and insight. Her book is both practical and theological. I appreciated that she wrote not just about what to take away, but about what the gospel offers in its place, which I think is what really distinguishes this from just another book about minimalism. In a way, actually, it's a book about maximalism: finding life in the right places. She deftly draws on Scripture to make her case for alternative practices that support living in true abundance. Her advice was not overbearing and I appreciated the places where she recognized that people are coming to her work with sometimes extenuating circumstances, so they needn't be shamed into change or into doing more than they can sustain. It read very much like, "I want you to succeed" not "follow this list." I thoroughly enjoyed this book.

[Lauren Flake · Rating 5 out of 5]

Personal, practical, witty, and wise, Courtney's story gives us the freedom to let go of excess and pride. She guides readers through the many layers of decluttering their closets, schedules, and lives to find deeper faith and surrender in the Creator.

[Cam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this thought-provoking book. The concepts of reducing distractions and focusing your attentions on the most meaningful aspects of your life are not new ideas, but they provide deeply important, foundational guideposts. It is always the right time to take stock of your life and re-order your actions and priorities such that what you do is the most aligned with your end goal.

Uncluttered is a book that knows its identity and luxuriates in it. It's not an academic or bible-focused work that lays out what the logical steps are from point a to point b and reviews the theological ramifications of various interpretations of the good book over the course of human history. Rather, it comes along side you like an old friend and says, "hey, here are a bunch of ideas that you somehow innately know are true, here's some practical advice on how you might make some progress, and oh, by the way, I have a LONG way to go in my own pursuit of these ideals." Ellis does a wonderful job of being encouraging without coming across as preachy or holier-than-thou. Her combination of humor and humility invite consideration of her message. If you want my opinion, you should read this book.

[Eric Gustafson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Uncluttered is such a great book! Anyone reading it will either eagerly or reluctantly agree that it is right on. We all know that the proliferation of “stuff” and busy-ness in our lives is stressing us out and stealing our joy. But the cool thing about this book is that we can come to believe that becoming uncluttered (and enjoying life more) may actually be possible for us.

As I read, I kept saying to myself, “I could have written this book!” Except that I couldn’t. Aside from the fact that I am not the engaging writer that Courtney Ellis is, I also have not as intentionally and comprehensively uncluttered my life or understood why it is so critical for spiritual and mental health to do so. It’s one thing to nibble around the edges of living in an uncluttered life, but it’s quite another to make it your family lifestyle and build habits into your kids that will give them a better life.

Courtney Ellis not only tells us why we must urgently unclutter our lives, but she also demonstrates how to unclutter our lives with many, many personal stories of her own struggles and successes. Even better, she shows us that an entire family can do it together and live to tell about it. And together agree that the uncluttered life gives them freedom and time for the things that matter most.

[Dana Herndon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so good! I love that Uncluttered is not just about getting rid of physical clutter but about clearing out mental and spiritual clutter as well. I highlighted so much! Courtney gives great advice and is so relatable.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was 48 hours from the time I opened the package with Uncluttered in it, to the time I finished the last page. Though somewhat contrary to the overall message of slowing down and simplifying, I gobbled up every page of this book. Ellis offers an invitation to live a life that is open to the freedom and joy that comes from clearing out our junk, our schedule, and our hearts and minds. By the end of the book I had three pages of lists of things that I want to start uncluttering in my life. From taking social media off my phone, to plans for simplifying my closet, to putting a night on the calendar every week to have people over. This book came at the perfect time as we’re heading into a new year and looking at what I want our priorities to be and how to shape our lives in ways that are more faithful, sustainable, and joyful. Also, Ellis is smart and wise and funny, so reading this book was not only enlightening but enjoyable on every page.