Towards the end of 2022, I realized that a lot of my frustration and stress stemmed from constantly being crowded by “stuff”. Life was life-ing with kids’ activities, work, etc., and the disarray and disorganization that I lived in didn’t make things run as smoothly as I knew they could and should. I can’t mention enough how much the pandemic has changed my behaviors and altered the systems that at one time kept me sane. Constantly dwelling within a state of dissatisfaction where I believed that I always needed more.
Every free moment I had last month, I was purging and organizing. I made it a point to set the correct expectation that I wasn’t going to get all of it done in one weekend. That removed the typical anxiety that I usually slathered on even the simplest things. I didn’t want this to be a stressful process, but rather a smooth, peaceful, and liberating one. All of the bedrooms are done and all that’s left is the kitchen, pantry, and my office. It feels good.
February is here and I’m still reaping the benefits of my decision. Physically, I spend less time cleaning. Mentally, I spend less time stressing over cleaning and organizing. I’ve been intentional about making sure I’ve found a place for everything, and if I couldn’t, I seriously reevaluated my need for that particular thing. I even found my beats pill that I hid from my daughter’s sticky hands. *side eye* I even made some subtle changes here on my blog to give it a more minimal look. It’s less I have to maintain and I don’t feel overwhelmed when I do get the urge to attempt to compose a post. And last month, I was on fire.
With a more simplified way of living, I can appreciate and be grateful for the things that I currently have. And now I have the time to do the things that I love.. the things that bring me joy.
Including sharing my thoughts and my life in this little space here.
February is for intentional movements. Lighter loads. Grace. And feel a bit more freeing.
Allie Mackin
February 6, 2023 at 8:03 pmOh boy I feel you, I hate clutter it drives me ba-nanas. I am the opposite of a hoarder, I am a tosser LOL. I am glad you are able to do a little purging you are going to feel better for sure. I am not surprised you are less stressed, as they say less is more!
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
Amanda
February 18, 2023 at 2:15 pmI cleaned up my blog too! Something was in the air! But my struggle with living with another person, two different ways of living, I created a list to help me organize. Additionally, I use a timer so I am not distracted by anything or anyone when I am cleaning and organizing.