Declutter

  • Simple Living

    Jumpstart Your Simple Living Journey with These Easy Tips

    Have you heard about living more simply and been intrigued? Has slowing down your life been on your radar but you just don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry – I’ve got you because I have been there too. Life in this modern world is busy, it’s bright, it’s always on, and sometimes we don’t necessarily know how to begin to slow our lives down. 

    A common question, or statement, I hear when I talk about slow and simple living is that people feel they can’t do it because they have a 9-5 job or they live what they consider to be a busy life. They have this idea of what it is ‘supposed’ to look like and feel like it’s completely unattainable for them.  Slow and simple living isn’t about never being busy, or not having those demands that sometimes seem like a lot. Instead, it is about finding ways in our already established lives to create slow and simple rhythms that help us create a more intentional life for ourselves. 

    What if I told you that whatever your life looks like there are things you can do to start to put slow and simple living in motion? These go-to slow and simple living tips will help you re-evaluate what busy means to you and help you implement areas of slowing down and simplicity in your life. Whatever that looks like in your life, these tips will help you live more intentionally, starting today.

    Leave hustle culture behind

    Leaving a multi-level marketing company and the onset of the global pandemic provided the perfect opportunity for me to reassess my life and fully embrace the art of slowing down. While the pandemic brought about immense challenges, it also granted our family the chance to reconsider our priorities and the way we choose to live. It was during those initial lockdown days that I first delved into the world of slow living. As we adapted to a life where work took place within the comforting confines of our home, I often found myself standing on my balcony, gazing out at a world in turmoil, and pondering the mysteries of the outside world. This practice still resonates with me today.

    Many aspects of slow living had already found their way into our lives, but this period marked the beginning of a profound transformation. As the world gradually reopened, I realised that I was in no rush to return to the fast-paced routines of the past. The significance of many things had shifted in my perspective, and I found solace in embracing a simpler, more intentional way of life.

    When you finally feel ready to leave hustle culture behind and embrace a slower, more intentional way of living, you can start by identifying your why. Ask yourself why you want to make this change and what truly matters to you. Is it more time with your family? Do you want to pursue a passion? Or do you just want to create a better balance in your life? When you start to pinpoint your motivations you will have a better idea of how to make decisions that align with your values. Your why will then become your anchor in this busy world, constantly reminding you of the path you want to take toward a more fulfilling and meaningful life.

    Declutter your space and mind

    When we think about decluttering we often think about tidying up and minimising our physical surroundings, but it is also a powerful practice that can extend to your mental landscape too. When you clear out the excess of the physical possessions that no longer serve you, you create room for mental clarity and peace. The act of decluttering becomes a metaphor for letting go of mental burdens, unnecessary worries, and distractions. As you simplify your physical space, you’ll often find that your mind follows suit, becoming less cluttered and more focused. It’s a beautiful synergy between our external environment and internal wellbeing, where the art of decluttering paves the way for a simpler, more intentional way of living.

    Decluttering your physical space and sometimes seem overwhelming, so start with a small, manageable area like a single drawer, shelf, or even your workspace. When you tackle a small space you start to accumulate small wins which will help your sense of accomplishment and motivate you to keep going. As you begin to declutter your physical space, pay attention to the sense of lightness and clarity it brings. This physical transformation so often leads to a mental one, which inspires you to re-evaluate clutter across your entire life. You can download my decluttering checklists from my shop here.

    Nourish your wellbeing through mindful living

    When you nourish your own wellbeing you start a holistic journey that starts with the practice of mindful living. It’s about being fully present in many of life’s moments, savouring the simplicity of lifes simple pleasure, and finding a balance in a world that can feel overwhelming as it encourages constant busyness. Mindful living isn’t a trend, it is a way to connect deeply with your inner self and the world around you. By practicing mindfulness you are better able to cultivate an awareness whereby you are better able to make conscious choices that along with your true values and desires. 

    When people hear the word Mindfulness they often think it requires sitting for hours, with a blank mind, in a meditative state, and therefore immediately dismiss it out of hand as something they don’t have time for. Incorporating mindfulness into your life doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavor. Instead, you can choose just one small mindful activity that resonates with you. It could be mindful breathing, a short meditation, or enjoying a tea or coffee without interruptions: anything that feels manageable for you. When you start with one practice you can slowly ease yourself into the concept of mindfulness and how you can weave them into your daily routine. Every small step that you take will help contribute to your wellbeing and help you integrate slow and simple living into your everyday life. 

    How you can start to embrace Slow & Simple Living in your own life

    Are you yearning to hit the brakes and embrace a slower, more intentional way of living, but you’re unsure of where to begin? I’ve crafted this delightful freebie just for you, designed to kickstart your journey into the world of slow & simple living. It’s packed with practical tips to help you infuse slowness into every facet of your daily life.

    Begin your journey towards a slower, more simpler life.

    In a life that constantly feels fast-paced and on-the-go, are you longing to find the beauty in slowing down but aren’t sure how to begin?
     
    Look no further! I’ve crafted this delightful freebie to guide you in your quest to infuse slow living into every facet of your life, making the journey enjoyable and accessible.




    Thank you for subscribing!


    So there you have it! My go-to ways to help you start to embrace that slow and simple lifestyle you’ve been thinking of but haven’t had a clue where to start. Are you ready to embark on a journey of understanding what slow and simple living truly means and how to infuse it into your own life? Don’t forget to download the Slow & Simple Living Guide above. Also be sure to check out The Slow Living Collective Podcast where we unravel the essence of slow and simple living in our weekly episodes, providing practical steps and holding space for you to begin your transformative journey towards a more intentional and fulfilling life. 

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  • Decluttering, Podcast

    How to blitz the spring declutter + free checklist

    A post about how you can embrace the spring season and the feeling of rebirth. Embrace the spring declutter with my ultimate free spring decluttering checklist.

    Apple Podcasts | Spotify Podcast

    The Emotional Benefits of Spring Decluttering: Why Letting Go Can Help You Live a Happier Life

    Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in stuff? Spring is the perfect time to declutter your home and let go of unnecessary possessions. But did you know that decluttering can also have powerful emotional benefits? By letting go of physical clutter, you can also release emotional baggage, reduce stress and anxiety, and create a happier and more peaceful life. Imagine waking up each day to a clean, organized home that reflects your inner calm. In this article, we’ll explore the emotional benefits of spring decluttering and how it can help you live a happier life. You’ll learn how decluttering can reduce stress and anxiety, help you overcome emotional baggage, and improve relationships. We’ll also share the benefits of regular decluttering, tips for spring decluttering, and provide an ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list. So, get ready to embrace a simpler, happier life by letting go of what no longer serves you.

    Decluttering Reduces Stress and Anxiety

    In addition to reducing physical clutter, decluttering can also help you overcome emotional baggage that may be weighing you down. Letting go of possessions that hold negative memories or emotions can be a powerful way to release those feelings and move on. When you let go of items that no longer serve you, you create space for positive emotions and experiences. This can help you feel more in control of your life and more optimistic about the future. In the following section, we’ll explore how letting go of possessions can help you overcome emotional baggage and create a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Letting Go of Possessions Can Help You Overcome Emotional Baggage

    Letting go of possessions can be a difficult process, especially if you have emotional attachments to them. However, holding onto these items can also hold you back emotionally. If you have negative memories associated with possessions, it can bring up those emotions every time you see them. By decluttering and letting go of these possessions, you release those negative emotions and create space for positive experiences.

    This process can be especially powerful for those who have experienced trauma or difficult life experiences. Letting go of physical possessions can be symbolic of letting go of emotional baggage that may be holding you back. It can be a way to take control of your life and move forward from past traumas.

    As you go through your possessions, take time to reflect on the emotions and memories associated with each item. If it brings up negative emotions or doesn’t serve a practical purpose, consider letting it go. You may find that as you release these items, you also release emotional burdens that have been weighing you down.

    Creating space by decluttering not only allows you to let go of emotional baggage but also allows you to focus on what really matters in life. In the next section, we’ll explore how this newfound space can help you live a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Creating Space Allows You to Focus on What Really Matters

    Creating space through decluttering is not just about getting rid of physical items, but it also provides mental clarity and allows you to focus on what really matters in your life. When you let go of unnecessary possessions, you are essentially freeing up your mind and creating a peaceful environment that can help you think more clearly. This newfound space can give you the freedom to pursue your passions, spend more time with loved ones, and prioritize self-care, which can all contribute to a happier and more fulfilling life.

    Decluttering and creating space can also have a positive impact on your relationships. With less clutter and distractions, you can focus more on your loved ones and the time you spend together. You may find that your relationships grow stronger as you are able to be more present and engaged in your interactions. In addition, by decluttering together, you can bond over shared experiences and make decluttering a fun and meaningful activity.

    Overall, decluttering and creating space can have numerous emotional benefits that extend beyond just the physical act of getting rid of stuff. By letting go of unnecessary items and negative emotions, you can free yourself up to focus on what truly matters in life, improve your relationships, and live a happier, more fulfilling life.,

    Decluttering Can Improve Your Relationships

    With less clutter and distractions, you can focus more on interpersonal relationships and the time you spend together. Decluttering can allow you to be more present and engaged in your interactions. When you are able to focus on your loved ones, you may find that your relationships grow stronger. By decluttering together, you can bond over shared experiences and make decluttering a fun and meaningful activity.

    Regular decluttering can help you maintain these benefits and keep your relationships strong. Not only will you have more space and less clutter, but you will also be able to continue bonding with your loved ones over this shared experience.,

    The Benefits of Regular Decluttering

    In addition to the emotional benefits, there are also practical benefits to regular decluttering. When you regularly take the time to declutter, you prevent clutter from accumulating and becoming overwhelming. This means you’ll spend less time cleaning and organizing, and more time doing the things you love. Another benefit of regular decluttering is that it helps you stay organized and focused. By periodically reassessing your possessions and getting rid of what you no longer need, you create space for the things that matter most to you.

    To maintain these benefits, it’s important to make decluttering a regular habit. Set aside time every few months to go through your possessions and get rid of what you no longer need. By doing this regularly, you’ll prevent clutter from accumulating, and you’ll be able to maintain the peace and order you’ve created in your home.

    Next, we’ll explore some tips for making the most of your spring decluttering – so you can reap the benefits all year round.,

    Tips for Spring Decluttering

    To make the most out of your spring decluttering, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, set a goal for what you want to achieve with your decluttering. Whether it’s to create more space, reduce stress or simply get organized, having a clear goal in mind will help keep you motivated.

    Next, tackle one area at a time. Starting with smaller spaces like a closet or a drawer can help you build momentum and stay focused. It’s also important to have a system in place for what to keep, what to donate or sell, and what to throw away.

    Another helpful tip is to break decluttering into manageable chunks of time. Trying to tackle everything at once can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Set aside blocks of time that work for you, whether it’s an hour a day, a full weekend, or something in between.

    Lastly, enlist the help of a friend or family member. Not only can they provide an extra set of hands, but they can also provide a fresh perspective and help keep you motivated.

    With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a clutter-free home and a happier life. And to make things even easier, be sure to download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list for a step-by-step guide to conquering your clutter.,

    Download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list

    With spring cleaning season in full swing, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why downloading the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list can be a game-changer. This list provides a step-by-step guide to help you conquer your clutter and achieve a more organized home.

    The list is designed to break down the process into manageable tasks, so you don’t feel overwhelmed by the enormity of decluttering your entire home. It covers everything from decluttering your closet to organizing your kitchen cabinets, and it even includes tips on how to tackle sentimental items.

    By following this list, you’ll have a concrete plan of action that will help you stay motivated and focused. Plus, checking off each task as you go will give you a sense of accomplishment and progress.

    So, if you’re ready to take on the challenge of spring decluttering, make sure to download the ultimate spring cleaning decluttering list. It will be your go-to guide for achieving a clutter-free home and a happier life.

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    In conclusion, spring decluttering is not just about cleaning up your physical space. It can also positively impact your emotional well-being, reducing stress and anxiety, helping you overcome emotional baggage, improving relationships, and creating more mental clarity to focus on what really matters. Regular decluttering can provide a sense of calm and order in your life. So, take advantage of this season and let go of what you no longer need. Use the tips provided to make the process easier and start enjoying the benefits of a clutter-free life. Remember, every small step counts towards a happier and more peaceful life. As Anne Lamott wisely said, “Clutter and mess show us that life is being lived…Tidiness makes me think of held breath, of suspended animation… Perfectionism is a mean, frozen form of idealism, while messes are the artist’s true friend. What people somehow forgot to mention when we were children was that we need to make messes in order to find out who we are and why we are here.

  • Living Small

    Living small by choice

    Living in a small home can have a big impact on your mental health. From reducing stress to promoting mindfulness, discover the many ways that tiny living can help you feel happier, healthier, and more centered.

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the endless possessions cluttering your home? Do you dream of a simpler, more intentional way of living? Tiny home living just might be the answer. Beyond being an eco-friendly and cost-effective option, studies show that downsizing can have a positive impact on your mental health. In this article, we will explore the surprising benefits of tiny home living for your mind and spirit. Find out how simplifying your space can lead to less stress, a deeper connection with nature, and stronger relationships. Join us on this journey to explore how this minimalist lifestyle can help you foster a greater sense of calm and contentment in your life.

    Living Small = Less Clutter, More Calm

    Society teaches us that we ought to always be reaching for the next bigger and better thing, always overstretching ourselves financially to get that bigger house, bigger car, more expensive upgrade on pretty much everything. The idea being that we need to always push ourselves that little bit further.

    One of the biggest advantages of small home living is the ability to simplify your life. With less space, there is a natural tendency to have fewer possessions, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. This simplification can lead to a sense of calm and clarity, reducing stress and anxiety.

    In a world where we are constantly bombarded with stimulation and distractions, a minimalist lifestyle can provide a respite from the noise. With fewer things to take care of and worry about, you are free to spend your time and energy on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.

    Not only does simplifying your possessions lead to a more peaceful living environment, it also encourages a deeper connection with nature. By having less, you are more likely to prioritize experiences over material possessions, prompting you to spend more time outdoors and appreciate the beauty of the natural world.

    Simplifying your life also has a positive impact on your relationships. With less time spent on managing possessions, you have more time and energy to invest in your loved ones. By creating space for meaningful connections, you can strengthen your relationships and foster a deeper sense of community.

    In short, less clutter can lead to more calm in your life. By embracing a minimalist lifestyle and downsizing to a tiny home, you can simplify your space, reduce stress, deepen connections, and find a greater sense of contentment in your life.

    Simplifying Your Life

    Simplifying your life also has a positive impact on your relationships. With less time spent on managing possessions, you have more time and energy to invest in your loved ones. By creating space for meaningful connections, you can strengthen your relationships and foster a deeper sense of community. This shift towards a more minimalist lifestyle can be beneficial not only for the individual, but also for the environment. By reducing consumption and waste, you’re also making a positive impact on the planet.

    Connecting with nature is another way to simplify your life and boost mental wellbeing. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, increase creativity, and improve overall mood. In a tiny home, you have the opportunity to bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements into your living space, such as indoor plants and natural light sources. This connection to nature can help create a sense of peace and tranquility, enhancing the benefits of tiny home living on your mental health.

    Connecting with Nature

    Simplifying your life also has a positive impact on your relationships by creating space for meaningful connections, and it can be beneficial for the environment by reducing consumption and waste. However, connecting with nature is another way to simplify your life and boost mental wellbeing. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, increase creativity, and improve overall mood. In a tiny home, you have the opportunity to bring the outdoors in by incorporating natural elements into your living space, such as indoor plants and natural light sources. This connection to nature can help create a sense of peace and tranquility, enhancing the benefits of tiny home living on your mental health.

    Promoting Mindfulness

    Promoting mindfulness is another way to prioritize your mental health in a tiny home. Mindfulness is the practice of being present and fully engaged in the current moment, without distractions or judgment. It involves paying attention to your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings without trying to change or manipulate them. Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, and improve overall well-being.

    In a tiny home, it’s easier to stay mindful because there are fewer distractions and less clutter to worry about. You can create a designated space for meditation or yoga, or simply take a moment to breathe deeply and appreciate your surroundings. Mindfulness can also help you appreciate the small joys of tiny home living, such as the cozy feeling of snuggling up on a chilly night or the satisfaction of cooking a meal in a compact kitchen.

    By promoting mindfulness in your tiny home, you can cultivate a greater sense of peace and happiness within yourself, which can in turn strengthen your relationships with others. Fostering stronger relationships is another benefit of tiny home living that can have a positive impact on your mental health.

    Fostering Stronger Relationships

    Living in a tiny home encourages mindful living, which can translate to better relationships. When we are more present and content within ourselves, we are able to connect more authentically with others. And in a tiny home, we are forced to be intentional with the space we have and how we use it, which can lead to more quality time with loved ones.

    In a larger home, it’s easy to become isolated in different rooms or distracted by technology and other forms of entertainment. But in a tiny home, there’s less separation and more opportunity for shared experiences. Cooking meals together in a compact kitchen, snuggling up on a couch that doubles as a bed, or simply enjoying the outdoors together can all foster stronger relationships and create lasting memories.

    Not only can stronger connections with loved ones improve our mental health, but they can also help us feel supported and less stressed in our daily lives. And speaking of stress, one of the most significant benefits of tiny home living is its potential to save money and reduce financial strain.

    Saving Money and Reducing Stress

    Apart from fostering stronger relationships and creating lasting memories, tiny home living can also help save money and reduce financial strain, which can significantly reduce stress levels. With fewer possessions and less square footage to maintain, tiny homeowners can cut down on expenses such as utilities, insurance, and maintenance costs. In addition, many tiny homes are built on wheels or on foundations that don’t require expensive permits or zoning regulations.

    Moreover, living in a tiny home often means adopting a simpler lifestyle that prioritizes experiences over possessions. This shift in perspective can lead to less spending on material items and more focus on activities and hobbies that bring joy and fulfillment.

    Reducing financial stress through tiny home living not only has immediate effects but also has long-term benefits such as freeing up money for retirement savings or paying off debt. The financial freedom provided by tiny home living can also open up opportunities for travel or pursuing passions that might have otherwise seemed financially unattainable.

    Overall, the financial benefits of tiny home living can have a positive impact on our mental health by reducing stress and allowing us the freedom to live a meaningful and fulfilling life on our own terms.

    In conclusion, smaller living spaces offer a wealth of benefits for your mental health. By reducing clutter, simplifying your life, cultivating mindfulness, connecting with nature, and fostering stronger relationships, tiny home living can greatly improve your overall well-being. And with the added bonus of saving money and reducing stress, it’s no wonder that more and more people are embracing this minimalist lifestyle. So if you’re ready to make the shift, start by decluttering and exploring creative ways to make your space feel cosy and inviting.

  • Decluttering

    Overwhelmed by Clutter? Refresh and Recharge

    In this blog post, I will discuss why it is important to take a break from clutter and how to do it. I’ll provide readers with helpful ideas to help them declutter their space and their mind. I’ll also discuss the benefits of decluttering such as recharging the spirit, refreshing the mind and having more energy to focus on the things that matter.

    decluttering the clutter

    We’ve all been there: surrounded by piles of papers, clothes, knick-knacks, and stuff with no idea what to do with it all. Feeling overwhelmed by clutter is a common problem that can lead to decreased productivity, higher stress levels, and feelings of disorganisation and chaos. I know this is exactly how I feel when it comes to clutter. But today I want to share with you that it doesn’t have to be this way. With a little bit of effort, you can reclaim your space, refresh and recharge, and feel rejuvenated by the process. We will explore simple and cost-effective tips to combat clutter that anyone can use in their own home, no matter the size of their space or amount of items. You will learn how to quickly break down a cluttered space into manageable tasks, create an organised storage system that works for you, and give yourself permission to throw away, donate, or sell the items that are no longer useful. Ready to reclaim your space and reignite your energy? Let’s dive in.

    Why Clutter Causes Stress

    Being surrounded by clutter can contribute to unhealthy levels of stress in our lives, increasing feelings of powerlessness, frustration, and anxiety. Studies have shown that when we’re surrounded by too much physical or visual chaos, our brains become overwhelmed, making it difficult to concentrate, relax, and feel at peace. Hello, it’s me! Clutter can also act as a constant reminder of the tasks and responsibilities we never seem to get around to completing. This can be especially true when it comes to what is known as decision paralysis, which is the feeling of being unable to make decisions because there are too many options.

    How to let go of clutter

    One of the most challenging aspects of letting go of clutter is recognising when an item is no longer useful or necessary in your life. We all have a tendency to hold on to items, even if we don’t need them or won’t ever use them. It’s important to take the time to determine if something has any value to you, or if it’s just taking up space. As I constantly say: Our homes aren’t storage units so we need to stop treating them as such. Ask yourself if this item will serve a purpose in the future, or if it’s something you can stand to part with. If it’s something you can live without, set it aside and consider donating or recycling it. Letting go of items that no longer have value can help you to create space for new opportunities, ideas, and experiences in your life.

    Make a Plan and Organise Your Life

    Organising and planning your life can seem like a daunting task. But, creating a plan can actually make life easier and more enjoyable. If you feel overwhelmed by the things you need to do, try breaking them down into smaller, manageable tasks and creating a timeline to finish each one. Prioritise the most important tasks and give yourself realistic deadlines, then organize them into a plan of action. Once you’ve put together your plan, you’ll be able to see the bigger picture and make sure there’s time for all the things you want to do. With a plan and organization, you’ll find yourself more focused, more motivated and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.

    piles of clothes on the floor of clutter to declutter

    Tips for Releasing Clutter

    The first step in releasing clutter is to assess the items you own and determine what can be donated, recycled, or thrown away. Taking an honest look at the items you no longer need can help you make tough decisions and free up space in your home or office. When possible, donate items that you no longer need to local charities or thrift stores. This will not only help you to declutter, but it will also help people in need by providing gently used items that they may not otherwise have access to. Additionally, recycling items like plastic containers, paper, and cans can help reduce your own environmental impact and ensure that materials are reused in a responsible manner. Lastly, make sure to properly dispose of any items that can’t be donated or recycled, such as hazardous materials. Taking control of your clutter can not only help you to de-stress but can also make a positive impact on the environment.

    Find New Ways to Recharge and Refresh

    Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery to breath new life into a phrase. If you’re feeling drained and need a creative boost, give yourself the time and space to step away from the hustle and bustle of everyday tasks and schedules. Explore a new environment, get to know the people around you, or try something completely different. Flex your creative muscles in a new way and you may find that you can use a different perspective to generate new ideas. There are endless possibilities out there to help you recharge and refresh, so take the time to find the one that works best for you.

    How to embrace living with less

    For some, living with less may seem like a daunting task, however, it can be incredibly rewarding and beneficial. Decluttering can help us to let go of the physical and emotional burden associated with the accumulation of possessions that so often happens in our lives. It can help us to cultivate gratitude and appreciation for the items that remain and give us a newfound confidence in our ability to let go and simplify. By embracing a minimalist lifestyle, we can gain more clarity and focus, allowing us to concentrate on what’s truly important.

    Download your decluttering checklists and banish the clutter today!

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    When it comes to decluttering, it’s important to have an organised approach that addresses the physical and mental challenges. From creating a plan to restocking with purpose, these steps can help to restore a sense of calm, focus, and wellbeing in your life. By taking time to remove the clutter, we can free ourselves from the mental limitations it imposes and refuel our minds and spirits. As the saying goes, “A clear space leads to a clear mind.” Take the first step today and create a clutter-free environment by downloading the checklists and get started. This will bring balance and happiness to your life. Ready to make a change in your home? Take the first step by gathering items that you need to donate, and if you don’t have the necessary resources to do so, reach out to your community and ask for help.

  • Simple Living

    The art of living more minimally

    Living more minimally has been a work in progress, one that is still very much a work in progress and probably will be for a while yet. To me, minimalism is different to each person, and while I won’t ever be a one pair of jeans and one t-shirt kind of girl I know that we all have our own brand on minimalism and that’s the most important thing.

    Are we where we want to be yet? No.

    Are we doing better than we were a year ago? Definitely.

    How did we start?

    Being home for the last year has actually been incredibly productive when it came to evaluating our home. We found better ways to live in and also a few renovations that we really wanted to do too. Some have been done and some are next on the list.

    We spent the last year taking a look at what we have, both around our home and things inside it and how we can live more minimally within it. We live in a small home and we absolutely love it, although since I got pregnant with our second child the most common question is “will you move house now?” as if people could not comprehend wanting to live in a small home by choice. We love our home and I find that most people’s issues in outgrowing their home are that their stuff grows out of it. Instead of that, we live in a way where we fit inside our home.

    Now I do recognise that at some point we are going to have to move, but not yet. It has nothing to do with the size or space for our family but more that we have a daughter and are expecting a son. While sharing space will work for a while ultimately we will want to be providing them with their own individual bedrooms. However, that is something for the future.

    Living with less

    Once we decided that we had no intention of moving home and we’re more than happy where we were we decided that instead of trying to fit all out belongings into our small home a better idea was that we actually stop living with so much stuff and try to live more minimally instead. Most of it was just stored and there was so much that we could get rid of. So we did.

    We don’t need more space for more stuff and more clutter and instead we fit into the space that we have and we fit comfortably (although, like I said, we’re still very much a work in progress) and it really does feel great to live more minimally.

    Top tips for decluttering, living small and/or living with less:

    1. If you haven’t used it in 6 months (and it’s not seasonal or sentimental) consider selling or donating if you can. ⁣
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    2. Think more about fitting into space and less about adding yet more storage to make too much stuff fit into too little space. ⁣
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    3. Try multifunctional storage or furniture solutions. If you have a small or awkward space think of how you can be creative with what you have. Tiny homes are popular and with that comes a whole host of smart ways to live with less and in a smaller space.⁣
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    4. If you’re having a hard time letting stuff go and you have a place to temporarily store it (ie, a garage or loft) pack it up. If you’ve not thought of it or reached for it in six months it can be sold or donated. ⁣
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    5. Turn your waste into cash or to help those who need it. If things don’t need to go to landfill then find ways to pass them on. Plenty of people are in need and if you are happy to give away freely you’ll be sending it to a good home. Alternatively, if you have the time use places like ebay, Facebook market place etc to sell your stuff. Imagine how good it feels when you sell enough to pay a bill, treat yourself to takeaway or just add to your savings.⁣
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    What’s your best decluttering and/or living small tips?