What if this job is just tooooo much?!?
This is how I felt when I first started minimizing. I had “trash” stored up from over two decades of careless consumption.
THERE’S HOPE.
Now, if you’re reading this, you’ve already taken the first step. That is, it all starts with the desire to declutter.
HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR YOUR NEXT STEPS AND WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU’RE FEELING OVERWHELMED.
1. tAKE A DEEP BREATH.
When we’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s easy to get discouraged. But the first step is to take a deep breath and remind yourself that you can do this. Turn to mindfulness exercises if you’re feeling really stressed out. Visit my collection of 2-minute mindfulness exercises:
2. REACH OUT FOR SUPPORT.
Decluttering can be a big project, so it’s always helpful to have someone to lean on. Reach out to a friend or family member who is also on a decluttering journey. Minimalism group pages and minimalism sites can also connect you to other declutter-ers for support and collaboration.
For the big jobs, you can also reach out to my good friend (and former roommate!!), Michelle Johnson, Konmari Consultant.
Plus, engaging with others is a good way to make this more fun. Que, #3…
3. MAKE IT FUN.
When we’re feeling overwhelmed, it can be helpful to approach the task using your sense of humor. Try to make decluttering a game by challenging yourself to get rid of a certain number of items each day, or by turning it into a competition with your friends or family. Have you seen my “Sustainable Storage Challenge”??
Making decluttering a game can make the process more enjoyable and help you stay motivated!
4. EMBRACE THE “CHUCK IT IN A BOX” METHOD.
If you’re feeling really stuck, simply grab a box, fill it with everything that’s bothering you, close it up, and deal with it later. Come back to it when you’re ready. It’s a simple, low-stress solution that can help you get back on track.
5. CELEBRATE YOUR PROGRESS.
Decluttering can be a long process, so remember to celebrate your progress along the way. Treat yourself to something special, or take a break and do something you enjoy when you’re feeling proud of the progress you’ve made. Remember my saying “Reflect, Appreciate, Celebrate” and read my post about it:
https://www.instagram.com/p/CpZLtXBOGz9/
REMEMBER, DECLUTTERING IS NOT ABOUT PERFECTION.
It’s about taking control of your space and creating a more organized, stress-free life! So, don’t be too hard on yourself. Know that it takes time. Get involved with others. Have fun with it!
And if all else fails, just remember the wise words of Marie Kondo: “Does it bring you joy?”
If the answer is no, it’s time to say goodbye!