using small reg nail clippers, I never got the hang of reg ones. If you are careful not to cut the quick theses are good to use.
I've always cut my house cat's nails... some are a tad spicy, others protest.. some are ok with it. . I normally talk to them as I do their nails, and say we are almost done, talking in a quiet calm tone.
beware of flying nail bits...
"a couple of decades plus"= more than 3 decades lol.
warning: approx. 3:50 I got loud due to being close to the mic for added tips

I usually do them on the bathrm counter as its a good height for my back. on their backs resting against my chest cuddling them "sheep sheering style" seems to be the best option. I am able to do their nails fairly quickly which puts less stress on them. A towel for catching nail bits, and to make it more comfortable for them. I also wash them in a baby bath on there for the same reason.

you can also save time, and if you don't mind vacuuming up the bits by cutting their nails where they are. most scratch posts, tables or counters are the best heights for doing their nails. or try having them sit in your lap to do their nails... if that might be easier.

IF they are squirming I will change up the routine of what toes to do. sometimes going paw to paw other times feet, fronts, and dew claw( s) last, or 1 side then the other. If they are struggling with a certain paw or toe leave it to last.

IF they tend to kick try to start with the back feet. IF you have a really spicy cat you can wrap them in a towel so they can't kick or bite you directly. or wait till they are tired out from playing and wrap them up. If you are really having a hard time do just a couple of paws, and try another day w the other set.

yrs ago with our one cat I did it the hard way with the cat standing up. he would scream like I was torturing him, and bite at the clippers.
spray the nail clippers w rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to sanitize it when done.

play it by ear.