Decluttering: A Healing Path
Ever felt like you're lost in a maze of your own belongings? Overflowing drawers, forgotten items, and the chaos of too much stuff – I've been there. Today, I want to share how decluttering has become an essential part of my grief journey and how it might aid yours too.
Decluttering: Beyond Cleaning
Decluttering isn't just about tossing old concert tickets or sorting that box of tangled cables. It's about creating a peaceful space for yourself, especially when you're navigating the complexities of grief.
My experience with decluttering intensified after losing my dad, stepmom, daughter Libby, and my mom within a year and a half. Sorting through their belongings was overwhelming but also eye-opening. It prompted me to think about what I would leave behind and inspired me to adopt a minimalist approach.
Libby's Belongings: A Separate Challenge
Deciding what to do with Libby's belongings was another chapter in my decluttering story. I've talked about this in a separate video, which you might find helpful if you're struggling with a loved one's possessions:
Transition to a Tiny House
Moving from a five-bedroom house to a tiny house required a significant decluttering effort. This process wasn't just about necessity; it mirrored my desire for a fresh start and a simpler life. I realized that decluttering was more than just organizing physical space. It was about making room for my emotions and personal healing. It marked the beginning of my journey towards slow living, where I learned to value what truly matters.
Simple Steps to Start Decluttering
1. Start Slow and Small: Begin with a small area to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Embrace the process gradually.
2. Hold and Reflect: Touch each item and reflect on its significance. Be ruthless – if it doesn't bring comfort or joy, let it go.
3. Embrace the Space: Notice how decluttering creates more physical and mental space. Enjoy the calm and control it brings.
4. Regular Check-ins: Decluttering is an ongoing process. Regularly reassess what you need and what you can let go of.
Decluttering: More Than Just Cleaning Up
This journey is not just about tidying up; it's about reshaping your lifestyle. It can save you money, reduce anxiety, and promote a more peaceful environment. It's about stepping out of the consumerist culture and finding joy in simplicity.
To help you start your decluttering journey, I've created two free resources: a comprehensive room-by-room checklist and a 30-day decluttering challenge. These tools are designed to make the process more manageable.
Here is the video version of this post:
