Need a fresh start? Decluttering just might be the first step to help pave the way and kickstart a slow living lifestyle.
For me, decluttering became more than just organizing my physical space. It became a way for me to put the past behind me, to let go of the old, and to make room for the new. The act of taking down and donating my triathlon gear from my Ironman days was definitely an emotional experience.
It was like watching a part of my heart, my old identity, slip away.
Sadness blanketed my soul as I let go of those physical reminders of the person I used to be – the tri kits, the medals, the trophies.
But amidst the tears, I felt a sense of readiness. I was ready to leave behind the expectations and pressures that had led to my burnout. I was ready to embrace a slower, more intentional way of living.
Now, I stand at the intersection of my old life and my new path. I am open to whatever the Lord has in store for me next.
Through this blog, I hope to inspire and guide you on your own journey…
What is Slow Living?
Ahh, Slow Living – so, what exactly is it?
It’s an approach to life where you ditch the hustle and bustle, embrace simplicity, and savor the ‘here and now’.
It’s all about turning down the dial on the hectic pace of life and turning up the volume on the things that truly matter.
And I think we could all use a little more of that, right?
The Power of Decluttering
I know what you’re thinking, “Ugh, cleaning out my closet sounds miserable!” But hear me out – it’s so much more than that!
Decluttering is like hitting the restart button on your life.
I used to be an Ironman triathlete (yep, the spandex-wearing, bike-riding, swim cap-wearing kind). But after years of racing, I had accumulated a lot of stuff! And, if I’m being honest, it wasn’t just the physical clutter that was weighing me down.
It was the nostalgia, the memories, and the identity tied to those items.
When I started decluttering, I realized that I had been holding onto the past, and it was time to let go finally. And by creating physical space, I created mental space.
And it felt great donating to my friends who are still in the sport…
Trust me, it’s so much more than just cleaning out your closet. It’s a chance to rediscover yourself, make room for new experiences, and embrace a life that’s truly fulfilling.
Decluttering Tips for Slow Living
Now, I’ve scoured Pinterest for all the best tips, and boy, there’s a lot of them! But here’s one worth sharing– if you’re hanging onto something just for the emotional connection, why not take a picture of it and keep that as your memory?
We all have these items we hang onto year after year… that knife set from Aunt Dottie on your wedding day (may she rest in peace!), or that first-anniversary gift you haven’t worn since you accidentally spilled spaghetti sauce on it 10 years ago.
A picture will do just fine to keep the memory alive in your mind and heart.
Here are a few more tips to help you get started…
Tip 1: Create a Minimalist-Like Environment
Just start….. Start by keeping only the items that truly serve a purpose or bring you joy. Let go of the excess and create a serene environment that allows you to breathe freely.
Minimalism is a process – we’re not going to throw everything out in the first sweep. So go ahead, and just start with getting rid of one item you no longer use! I
Tip 2: Embrace The KonMari Method
Thank you, Marie Kondo, for blessing us with the tidying magic that is the KonMari Method. This technique is all about asking yourself, “Does it spark joy?”
If the answer is no, thank it for its service and let it go (or take a picture!) The KonMari Method helps you let go of the unnecessary and surround yourself with items that truly fill you up.
And that looks different for all of us… You do, you!
Tip 3: Practice Mindful Consumption
In a world filled with advertisements and temptations, mindful consumption is the name of the game. Take a pause before hitting that “Buy Now” button or adding items to your cart. (I know it’s soooooooo easy!!)
Lately, I’ve started putting things in my cart and coming back to them a few days later… it gives me time to really assess and ask myself, “Do I REALLY need this?”
So, ask yourself if that next purchase aligns with your values and if you truly need it.
By being intentional with our purchases, we’ll not only declutter our space, but also our mind and bank accounts.
The Connection Between Slow Living and Decluttering
Now, creating a minimalist haven doesn’t mean living in a sterile space that only belongs in a magazine. (And don’t go cray cray trying to achieve that!)
It’s all about intentionally curating your surroundings to spark happiness and eliminate distractions. Without all that visual noise and reminders of the past, we can fully immerse in the present.
As I started getting rid of stuff, I discovered a newfound appreciation for simplicity and slowness.
Suddenly, we start to notice the little things again – the warmth of the sun shining into the dining room, the sound of raindrops and the roof, and the aroma of coffee filling the kitchen first thing in the morning….
Incorporating Slow Living into Everyday Life
Picture this – a clutter-free space that brings you a sense of peace and serenity. Sounds pretty great, huh?
Go ahead, take a deep breath, put on your favorite tunes, and get ready to declutter your life.
Trust me, it’s so much more than just cleaning out your linen closet. It’s a chance to rediscover yourself, make room for new experiences, and embrace a life that’s truly fulfilling.
The Wrap- Decluttering For Slow Living
No doubt, decluttering goes beyond just tidying up our physical space; it creates room for a slower, more intentional way of living in all areas of our lives.
I want you to know that you have the power to create the life you desire.
I’m cheering you on!
XO,
Consider supporting my work!
