Where to Begin

Whether you've decided to just declutter or go full minimalist you will probably find yourself overwhelmed with where to start. The good news is you've decided to make a step that I guarantee will enrich your life in ways you didn't think possible. The hard news is it's going to be a long road. I started clearing out our unwanted and unused items about 3 months ago. We've made several trips to the Salvation Army and a few trash bags of things that weren't usable. I have a lot to go still. So, here's a few thoughts to get you started on your journey to less!

1. Pick a spot and stick with it

Decide what area of your home is bothering you the most. Once you know what you want to work on remove everything. For example, if its a shelf remove all its contents. From there you can separate into piles. A pile for what you're keeping, one for donating/selling, and one for trash. 

2. Keep what you actually use  

Remember this is a journey. This isn't about getting rid of everything and then discovering you actually need it. If you're unsure if you need an item pack it away for a few months. If you still haven't used it you probably don't need it. 

3. Don't fall into the "I might need it someday" trap

We've all done it. We have something we haven't even touched in eons but in the back of our minds we think we actually might use it someday. You will need to keep things that you might use in a different season so if it's summer don't get rid of all your shovels. You'll need those winter coats eventually. At the same time, you don't need several of each item.  Keep shovels but get rid of that dusty serving plate you've never actually served anything on. 

4. One day at a time

Living a minimalist lifestyle will take time. You will probably take over a year or more to get to where you want to be. Choose one spot at a time or set aside one day a month to "purge". You'll find that the more you do it the easier it becomes.

There's a few tips to get you on your way. I'll have more! Check out my Facebook page and join our 30 day challenge where you'll find accountability and get fresh inspiration!