Reducing clutter: A halt in my decluttering process
In a bid to lead a more meaningful life, an individual embarked on the Minimalism Game, a challenge designed to help declutter and simplify one's living space. The game, which involves discarding a set number of items each day, starting with one on Day 1 and adding one more each subsequent day, culminates in 30 items on Day 30.
However, the individual encountered a stall on Day 25, feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. This setback occurred during a night out with friends, particularly on Jono's birthday, when the individual consumed more alcohol than usual. The following week, the individual did not feel like addressing any problem areas, and productivity took a dip.
To regain momentum, the individual turned to various strategies. Breaking the process into manageable steps and maintaining a clear structure helped make the challenge less overwhelming. The individual focused on what truly added value or joy to their life, reflecting on belongings that served them positively and what could be let go to create space for more meaningful things.
Simplifying and prioritising elements of the process was also key. The individual reviewed their decluttering priorities, focusing on less important items first or grouping items by importance to avoid feeling overwhelmed or stuck. Engaging with others, such as family and friends, provided encouragement and accountability.
Clear replacement rules were also implemented. For example, if the individual acquired something new, they ensured an old item was donated, which helped sustain momentum after the initial challenge. The structured nature of the Minimalism Game also helped overcome sentimental attachment by breaking decluttering into daily challenges rather than one big task.
The individual's determination paid off. The dining table, a previous problem area, was kept clear for the first time. The donate pile in the hallway, which had grown large and required help to be transported to a donation center, was successfully dealt with. The individual did not buy hats, gloves, and scarves at a Christmas fair and donated a load.
The individual's journey towards a simple, meaningful life continues. They have spent less and questioned the purpose and value of purchases. The individual has closed all Halifax accounts, paid off a credit card, and reduced the amount owed on another. The individual has also rejoined Weight Watchers and has a plan to exercise more and swim more after the fattest part of the year.
Watching a show on Netflix called "Consumed," which is about families consumed by their belongings and challenged them to get rid of 75% of their stuff, made the individual feel better about their house and question why they had not finished the Mins Game. The individual's quote, "Love people and use things. Because the opposite never works!" encapsulates the essence of their minimalist journey.
The individual, who can be found on Instagram under the handle @samalderson_, invites followers to join them on their journey towards a simpler, more meaningful life. They provide the option for notifications whenever they post, keeping their audience informed and inspired.
In the journey towards a simpler, more meaningful life, the individual decided to focus on their personal finance as well. They clamped down on unnecessary spending, closing Halifax accounts and paying off a credit card. Furthermore, the individual aimed to improve their lifestyle and home environment by applying the principles of minimalism to their belongings, such as donating hats, gloves, and scarves to make room for more meaningful things.
