New Year is when we all like to resolve to make changes, i.e. get in shape, get more sleep, work on our relationships and business/work etc. But what about your home? When you de-clutter your environment, life becomes more functional, peaceful and enjoyable.
I recently sold my house and couldn’t decide what to do with all my “stuff” so I put most of it in storage and just kept the essentials and things that I really liked and moved into rented accommodation.
At first I was hesitant about “losing” my things but here’s what happened. After 6 months, I don’t miss those things, and I can’t even tell you what is in half those boxes. Therefore, in a few months I’m going to sell all that stuff or give it away and I feel a lot lighter for the decision.
So, what can you do to downsize and start the New Year a little lighter? Here are five ways that may work for you:
1. Create Space
Look around at your actual living space. Does it feel cluttered? Does it take a lot of time to clean all that stuff? Does the energy in the room drain you? Less is better. Try to declutter shelves and mantels. Select your favourite items, the ones that have the most meaning to you, and take everything else down. Stick your kids “best” artwork in a frame and change the pictures regularly rather than stick a whole lot on the fridge.
2. Put it away for now
Making changes can be hard. We all have some really nice things that are hard to part with. So, if you aren’t ready to give your precious things away, box them up and put them in storage or in the garage. Then tell yourself you can only take out the items you truly miss or need to use. If, after six months, you haven’t touched the items in the boxes, sell them or give them away. You obviously don’t need them.
3. Get rid of double Ups
These are items you have more of than what you need. Do you have many kitchen items, plates you have “inherited” from Aunt Betty and items you were given or you had to have at the time because it was a bargain. For example, glasses or coffee mugs. How many glasses or mugs do you need? What about bags, old clothes, kitchen appliances? It’s amazing the things we keep that we “might need someday.” I’m here to tell you that you won’t miss it when it’s gone.
4. Get rid of “old stuff.”
These are the items that you have around the house that you might not even know you have since you haven’t used them in years. Look in your makeup bag or drawer, your bathroom cabinet and your wardrobe. Are there items in there that can be sold or given away? What about those clothes that you will fit into someday? Keep what you really love and use.
5. Everything You Need You Have
My new mantra is “Everything I need, I have.” My home has everything I need, my family and a few possessions. Create peace and beauty with flowers or candles or music.
What else do I need, really? When I focus on the things I have been blessed with, the need for a lot of new stuff is unimportant.
So next time you want to buy that new must have kitchen appliance or on sale item you don’t really need think, “Everything I need, I already have.” Admire it, then put it back.
