It’s really hard for some of us to let go of things, even though we KNOW all of our stuff and clutter is bringing chaos into our lives. I feel so conflicted and torn. My anxiety makes it hard to live with so much clutter, but then my anxiety also makes it hard for me to part with things. Ultimately though, I know the best thing for me to do is to simplify. Though it may be a challenge to let go sometimes, the end result will be so worth it and so much better for my mental health.
Roadblocks
When I started thinking about how I would tackle this project, I had to think about some of the roadblocks that have been in my way and preventing me from simplifying. Here are some of the biggest roadblocks I’ve found for struggling to get rid of things:
- Potential future use: But I might want to wear that shirt. But I might want to read this book… eventually. But I might want to use that 15 year old purse again. But this old notepad and these old markers might be great for a craft. And on and on. Feel me?
- Sentimentality: Someone gave me this. It evokes a cherished memory. Will I feel sad or guilty if I get rid of it?
- Money: I spent money on this. Did I get enough use out of it to justify that initial expense?
I know these roadblocks are mostly excuses. I know that once I get rid of some of the stuff that’s been weighing me down, a huge weight will be lifted off my shoulders. Once I have less stuff, I can organize it better and keep the house neater, so I need to just do it! So, how do I do it?
Benefits
I need to think of the benefits to simplifying. Thinking of the following benefits will really motivate me on this journey:
- A feeling of calm and peace by having less stuff surrounding me, and less to clean
- Less anxiety when I look around my house and see less clutter
- Less to clean and organize, which will result in more time to relax and enjoy
- Less to pack up and move, since we’d like to move in a few years
These are all the things that I like to think about when I get in the cleaning and simplifying mode. I need to keep these thoughts at the forefront of my mind when I get to work so I can stay motivated for the long run.
So there we have it! Now it’s time to really dig in…. wish me luck!
First up, I will be simplifying the kitchen because I don’t really have many sentimental attachments to my kitchen appliances and utensils… phew! I’ll be back with an update once it’s done.
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