Joy and I are childhood friends. We grew up together in the small town of Visalia, CA and have remained close friends all of our lives. I am honored to feature Joy here on The Minimalist Boomer.
Taking a minimalist approach to life starts with our mental and emotional health. A cluttered sense of overwhelm should be a signal that something needs to change, but we often find ourselves holding on even tighter to those things in the pile.
My friend Jamie speaks of minimizing tangible items, and as she does, I see people’s minds filled with anxiety, depression, and fear. In my work, I see the results of a cluttered life in behaviors that create walls firmly erected to protect and defend, creating isolation and loneliness. What appears to be simple – just letting go – is laden with a layer of attachment to concern over what happens when it’s gone.
Cleaning things out starts out difficult because we are uncertain about what we can get rid of. Much like an item we initially saw as beautiful and useful, emotions and beliefs started out with a good purpose. Once they become a part of our personality and habitual behaviors, we cling to them like a life raft after a shipwreck. We tell ourselves, “This is a part of who I am, and if I try to change, what will a be?” Or “I might need to use this someday to defend myself if things get bad again. I better hold onto that.” Sound familiar? Much like cleaning out a closet, cleaning out your mind is hard.
“If we want great things to happen then we must create space in our minds for what we desire.” ― Hina Hashmi
It is true that if you keep anything long enough, you might find a use for it. I used to feel some dismay when I gave something away only to discover a use for it later. The anxiety that existed about letting it go in the first place tries to return. But when I measured the lightness of not having something taking up space that caused me to feel burdened, I realized that it was better off without it. We find that the creation of space does something wonderful in your mind and gives you a sense of room to breathe.
Unfortunately, we live in a time when we are encouraged to fill up an empty space. More things mean more happiness. But space is very necessary for giving you a place to rest your eyes and open up your soul. When your view is filled with clutter, your mind remains in high gear, refusing to rest. The same is true of a mind filled with cluttering thoughts.
It’s a shift in perspective to consider that space is not emptiness. No, it’s anything but nothingness. The Universe shows us the value of space, as that is mostly what it is made of. How could we appreciate the stars if they melded together like one big glob? Music is filled with pauses and space, creating just the right melody. Artwork set off by the framing and space around it. What isn’t there is as much a part of a unique experience as what is. If you fear space, it’s probably because you’ve been sold the fallacy of more is secure. But in fact, too much creates overwhelming insecurity.
You see, everything around you takes a tiny bit of energy for your brain to process. When you have a lot of stuff, your mind is using up mental energy to track it all. But when you cleanse your field of vision and add openness, the brain rests and seeks opportunity to grow instead of focusing on all the stuff. Creating more spaciousness is energizing and calming. Space becomes a place where we can recharge and restore.
“Resting and relaxing is as important as going out there and making it happen.” ― Hiral Nagda
Anxiety and depression thrive in the clutter, which is why I often encourage my clients to begin decluttering as a part of their journey to better mental health. “What am I allowing to fill my space?” isn’t just a question for clearing out the house – it’s a vital question for what is filling your mind.
By the way, we are not just talking about the place you live physically when we are discussing minimizing what surrounds you. Take, for instance, the thing you are most likely reading this information on: Your Smart Phone. The space taken up each day in what I call “The Scroll Hole” is difficult to calculate. Until, that is, you rid yourself of it, even for a day.
“Social media fixation is the new hoarding behavior.” – Joy Henderson
Beyond all of the insightful posts and educational TIC TOCs, there are the comparison-contrast nano seconds that implant themselves in your mind space. Ever take a moment to ask yourself why you might be less than happy with that recent birthday gift or anniversary celebration?
Could it be the hundreds of times you viewed a heartwarming video of an extraordinary effort or picture of an astounding gift given to one of your “Friends”? Social media fixation is the new hoarding behavior. It is time to start noticing how you really feel the next time you click off that app.
The emotional reactions people have to getting rid of the unused things around them isn’t that different from making thoughtful changes to intentional behaviors. “Maybe I’m just made this way” or “I’ve always done this” is much like the sentimentality we attach to some possessions.
This is why feelings cannot be the guide you use when clearing out a closet, giving up an electronic application or changing your thoughts. Feelings are likely what got you into the cluttered and discouraged state in the first place. It is time to challenge them, and the distortions they support.
None of this is easy, and the best approach is to take it slowly and steadily.
Start with the space that you occupy the most. For some, it could be your bedroom or home office. For others, it might be your car. Wherever it is, take a few minutes with your eyes closed and allow yourself to see the dark space.
Breathe slowly and allow yourself to calm. See the spaciousness of nothing and notice how peaceful it is. As you open your eyes, and really see what is filling your space. You might find that you see things you started to just become used to, even though they didn’t belong.
Ask yourself what you can remove from your view right now to add more spaciousness to your view. Then do it. Don’t question. It could be trash or clothing that is in the wrong place. But whatever it is, take care of it.
Clear out one space to add spaciousness every day. Then do the same with your mind. Practice noticing your thoughts during scheduled quiet time or when you are feeling particularly stressed or down. What is taking up space in your thoughts that doesn’t belong there? Much like what may be filling your physical space, it needs to be seen and dealt with.
Last, but far from least, avoid picking up your phone before starting. In fact, turn off your phone before closing your eyes and leave it off for the duration of the practice.
You’ve gotten used to a lot of clutter that doesn’t really have a use anymore, and never will. And you’ve likely become dependent and entertained by a device that is literally uncontrolled in the scroll. It’s time to create space and energize your life.
In addition to these suggestions, I need to advise you that sometimes anxiety and depression are more than a disorder requiring your attention. If you have any thoughts of suicide or your symptoms persists for more than a few days at a time, resulting in significant changes to your behavior, you should see a Medical Professional immediately. There are many wonderful medications and treatments for serious emotional and mental illness.
I hope you will use these pointers to encourage you to begin your minimalist journey. If you are feeling discouraged and out of control, it could be the key to lifting your mood. Because you’ve found something you can control, even when life feels so very uncontrollable. And that is often the fundamental source of emotional health. Be well.
“I need to advise you that sometimes anxiety and depression are more than a disorder requiring your attention.” – Joy Henderson
Please feel free to leave comments here for Joy and I will be sure to pass them along to her!
I was sitting here at the computer, minding my own business, when Dave walked by and said, “Why don’t you blog about The Big If?” What? What the hell is he talking about…the big if? And better yet, what does it have to do with boomers?
Well, I can’t get it out of my mind now, so here goes. Stay tuned while I make an attempt to sort through this.
Welcome to a fascinating exploration of “The Big If!”
Unraveling the Mysteries of the “Big If”
The Big If, a concept that piques curiosity and encourages deep thinking. In today’s fast-paced world, it’s essential to ponder different scenarios and outcomes, and this topic provides the perfect opportunity.
But what exactly is The Big If? As far as I can tell, it’s the idea of considering various “what if” situations and their potential consequences. Diving into this topic will not only spark imagination, but also shed light on the importance of being prepared for life’s uncertainties.
So, let’s see what happens here with The Big If and attempt to unlock the doors to endless possibilities!
What is The Big If?
Ifs and buts are present in every aspect of our lives. From personal relationships to business decisions, we are always faced with the question, “what if?”
The Big If is a concept that deals with the hypothetical scenarios that arise due to the presence of these ifs and buts. It is a way of thinking that helps us analyze the potential outcomes of our decisions and actions.
Why is it Important?
As a matter of fact, The Big If is an important concept. It allows us to make informed decisions. By considering the different possible outcomes of a situation, we can choose the best course of action.
The Big If is particularly crucial in the business world, where a single decision can have a significant impact on the company’s future. By analyzing different scenarios, managers can make decisions that are more likely to lead to success.
The Big If is also important in our personal lives Boomers. By analyzing the different possibilities, we can avoid making decisions that we might regret later. We can also take steps to mitigate the risks associated with a particular decision.
The Big If is a concept that helps us make better decisions. By analyzing the different possible outcomes of a situation, we can choose the course of action that is most likely to lead to success.
Whether in our personal lives or in business, The Big If is a valuable tool that can help us achieve our goals.
The Big If…the good, the bad, and the clear as mud?
Taking on The Big If can be a great way to challenge yourself and push your limits. It can be incredibly satisfying to look back on what you’ve accomplished and know that you did it despite the odds.
One advantage of The Big If is that it can lead to personal growth and development. Even if you don’t end up succeeding, the experience of trying can teach you a lot about yourself and what you’re capable of.
You might find that you possess skills or talents that you didn’t even know you had, such as starting a blog! This newfound knowledge can be incredibly rewarding for you.
The Big If can be a great way to inspire others. When people see you taking on a big challenge, they might be motivated to do the same in their own lives. You could end up being a role model for others and helping them to achieve their own goals and dreams.
Of course, there are also some potential downsides to taking on The Big If. One major disadvantage is the risk of failure. If you put all of your time, energy, and resources into The Big If and it doesn’t work out, you could end up feeling disappointed, discouraged, and even financially or emotionally drained. It’s important to carefully consider the potential consequences of taking on The Big If before you commit.
The Big If may be incredibly stressful for you. When you’re working toward a major goal, it’s easy to become consumed by it. You might find that you’re constantly thinking about The Big If, even when you’re supposed to be relaxing or spending time with loved ones. This can lead to burnout and even damage your personal relationships.
As you can see, there are both advantages and disadvantages to taking on The Big If. It’s up to you to decide whether the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks. Just remember to carefully consider all of the factors involved and make an informed decision.
It turns out, it has a lot to do with baby boomers and everyone else for that matter. We all live with the “Big If.” We make decisions throughout our lives that impact the direction our lives take.
In the end, the big “if” for baby boomers is not whether we will continue to face challenges, but how we will respond to those challenges. By embracing change, staying positive, and remaining open to new opportunities, boomers can continue to lead meaningful, purposeful lives and make a positive impact on the world around us.
So go ahead and seize the day – the best “Big If” may be yet to come!
“You can’t be everything to everyone. At some point you need to make a choice about what truly matters to you and why.” ― David Amerland
Intention can be defined as a mental state that represents a commitment to carrying out an action or achieving a goal. It is a deliberate choice that is made with purpose and clarity, and is often accompanied by a strong sense of motivation and focus.
When we live with intention, we are actively engaged in the process of creating and shaping our lives, rather than simply reacting to external circumstances.
Living with intention is a powerful way to approach life, allowing you to focus on what truly matters and make the most of each day. By setting clear goals and actively pursuing them, you can create a purpose-driven existence that aligns with your values and passions.
In this piece, we’ll explore the concept of intentional living and share some practical tips for incorporating it into your daily routine, empowering you to lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Living with intention
Living with intention is a popular concept that has been gaining traction in recent years. It involves being mindful and purposeful in everything you do, and making choices that align with your values and goals. At its core, living with intention is about taking control of your life and creating a sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.
“If you are not consciously building your habits, they are unconsciously building you.” ― Anika J. Green
Minimalist intentional living is a way of life that focuses on living with less. It’s about being mindful of what we own, what we buy, and what we consume. It’s about making intentional choices that align with our values and priorities.
It involves being mindful of the present moment, setting goals, and taking deliberate steps towards achieving them. When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life.
Understanding the benefits of living with intention
Are you tired of feeling like you’re just surviving instead of thriving? Living with intention can help you break free from that cycle. By setting clear intentions for your life, you can create a roadmap for success and happiness. Let’s talk about some of the benefits of living with intention and how you can make it a part of your daily routine.
Increased focus and productivity: When we are clear about our goals and priorities, we are better able to focus our energy and attention on the things that matter most. This can lead to increased productivity and a greater sense of accomplishment.
Greater sense of purpose: Living with intention can help us to clarify our values and goals, and to align our actions with our beliefs. This can create a greater sense of purpose and meaning in our lives.
Improved relationships: When we are living with intention, we are more likely to communicate our needs and desires clearly, and to make choices that support our relationships. This can lead to stronger, healthier, and more fulfilling connections with others.
Reduced stress and anxiety: By living with intention, we can reduce the stress and anxiety that often comes from feeling like we are being pulled in multiple directions. When we are clear about our priorities and values, we can make choices that support our well-being and reduce our overall level of stress.
Overall, living with intention is a powerful way to create a life that is filled with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment. By being deliberate about our choices and actions, we can shape our lives in a way that aligns with our values and helps us to achieve our goals.
Living with intention means being aware of your values and priorities and taking deliberate action towards your goals. It is about focusing on what matters most to you, and making choices that align with your vision for your life. A fork in the road can be an adventure rather than an obstacle.
Identifying your values and priorities
Living with intention starts with identifying what is most important to you. Take some time to reflect on your values and priorities. What do you care about most? What brings you joy and fulfillment? Once you have a clear understanding of your values and priorities, you can use them as a guide for making decisions and setting goals.
For example, I choose to thank God for waking up each day and take pleasure in looking for some small way to give back to our community. It can be as simple as sharing a meal with someone, making a donation to a local charity, helping out at our church, or just passing along a kind word to someone who needs one.
It’s important to me to look for ways to show gratitude and to give thanks. Gratitude can remind us focus on what we have instead of what we lack, leading to greater contentment and satisfaction with life.
We all have dreams and aspirations, but how do we turn them into reality? By setting clear goals and identifying our priorities, we can create a roadmap for success.
Setting goals
Setting goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, and time-bound is an effective way to live with intention. When you set goals, you have a clear idea of what you want to achieve, how you will measure your progress, and when you plan to achieve it. This helps you stay focused and motivated and ensures that you are taking deliberate steps towards your vision for your life.
Creating a plan of action
Once you have identified your values and set goals, it’s time to create a plan of action. Break your goals down into smaller, actionable steps. Determine what resources you will need to achieve your goals and create a timeline for completing each step. Having a plan in place helps you stay organized and focused and makes it easier to track your progress.
Holding yourself accountable
Living with intention requires accountability. Hold yourself accountable for taking action toward your goals. Check in with yourself regularly to ensure that you are staying on track. If you find yourself falling behind, adjust your plan as needed. Having an accountability partner can also be helpful. Share your goals with someone you trust and ask them to check in with you regularly to ensure that you are making progress.
Living with intention is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and commitment to live a life that aligns with your values and priorities. By identifying your values, setting goals, creating a plan of action, and holding yourself accountable, you can start living with intention today.
“Always listen to experts. They’ll tell you what can’t be done, and why. Then do it.” ― Robert A. Heinlein
Obstacles to living with intention
Living with intention is a practice that requires daily effort and commitment. It’s about being mindful of your actions, thoughts, and goals, and aligning them with your values and purpose. However, there are some obstacles that can slow down your ability to live intentionally. Here are some common obstacles and strategies for overcoming them.
Identifying common obstacles
One of the biggest obstacles to living with intention is the lack of clarity about your values and purpose. Without a clear understanding of what you want to achieve and why it matters to you, it’s hard to make intentional choices and take purposeful actions.
Here are a few common obstacles you may encounter.
Distractions and timewasters
Negative self-talk and limiting beliefs.
Fear of failure or rejection
Procrastination and lack of motivation
Perfectionism and unrealistic expectations
These obstacles can prevent you from living with intention by keeping you stuck in a cycle of indecision, self-doubt, and inaction. However, with the right strategies, you can overcome them and move forward towards a more intentional life.
Strategies for overcoming obstacles
If you’re facing a an obstacle, don’t worry. There are all sorts of strategies you can use to get past it. First things first, take a deep breath and remind yourself that you’ve got this! Then, break the problem down into smaller, manageable steps. Don’t try to tackle it all at once.
Remember, there’s no shame in asking for help. Reach out to friends, family, or a professional if needed. You got this!
Here are some strategies that can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention.
Clarify your values and purpose: Take time to reflect on what matters to you and why. Write down your values and purpose statement to provide clarity and direction for your life.
Eliminate distractions: Identify the timewasters and distractions that are keeping you from being intentional. Use apps or tools to block or limit access to social media, email, or other distractions during your focused work time.
Challenge limiting beliefs: Identify the negative self-talk and limiting beliefs that are holding you back. Replace them with positive affirmations and evidence-based beliefs that support your goals.
Take small steps: Break down your goals into small, manageable steps that you can take every day. Celebrate your progress and use it as motivation to keep going.
Cultivate self-compassion: Be kind and understanding toward yourself when you face challenges or setbacks. Use self-compassion practices such as mindfulness and gratitude to boost your resilience and wellbeing.
These strategies can help you overcome the obstacles to living with intention and create a more intentional, purposeful, and fulfilling life. By being mindful of the obstacles and using these strategies to overcome them, you can live with more intention and achieve your goals with greater ease and joy.
Living with intention means living a life that aligns with your values and goals. It involves being mindful of your choices and actions, and making decisions that lead you toward the life you want to live.
Living with intention brings a sense of purpose and fulfillment to daily life. By setting clear goals and values, individuals can make conscious choices that align with their beliefs. This leads to improved mental well-being, stronger relationships, and increased personal growth.
Taking the time to reflect on one’s intentions can help identify areas for improvement. This allows for intentional changes in daily routines and decisions. By focusing on the present moment, individuals can fully engage in their experiences and make meaningful connections with others.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as prayer and journaling, can further support intentional living. These techniques help build self-awareness and provide a foundation for personal development. Embracing a life of intention can lead to lasting positive change, both internally and externally.
“Pursue what catches your heart, not what catches your eyes.” ― Roy T. Bennett
It’s Your Life…Make it Count
When you live with intention, you feel more fulfilled, happier, and more in control of your life. Start living intentionally today by identifying your values and goals, being mindful, taking action, and showing gratitude by giving back.
Embracing minimalism can be a game changer for many, and it’s never too late to start. If you could go back in time and share some wisdom about minimalism with your 30-year-old self, what would you say?
Let’s explore some tips that can help anyone on their journey toward a simpler, more meaningful life. From decluttering tips to prioritizing experiences over possessions, these valuable lessons will resonate with those of us who wish they had discovered the minimalist lifestyle sooner.
“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like.” – Will Rogers
1. Start small
Minimalism is all about simplifying your life by getting rid of unnecessary possessions and focusing on what truly adds value to your life. However, the idea of decluttering your entire life can be overwhelming and daunting.
Instead of trying to declutter your entire life at once, start small. Focus on one area of your life at a time, such as your closet or your kitchen. By making small changes in these specific areas, you’ll start to see progress without feeling overwhelmed.
For example, start by going through your closet and getting rid of clothes you haven’t worn in the past year. Once you’ve tackled your closet, move on to the kitchen and get rid of any appliances or utensils you don’t use on a regular basis. These small changes may seem insignificant, but they add up to big progress over time.
Not only will starting small make the process of minimalism more manageable, but it will also help you stay motivated. As you see progress in one area, you’ll be more inspired to tackle the next area of your life.
Minimalism is a journey, not a destination. It’s important to remember that you don’t have to do everything at once. By starting small and focusing on one area of your life at a time, you’ll be able to make lasting changes that will simplify your life and bring you more joy.
2. Focus on what matters
Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions. It’s about focusing on the things that matter most to you, such as your relationships, health, and personal growth.
When most people think of minimalism, they might picture a bare, sterile living space with empty walls and floors. However, minimalism is not just about getting rid of everything you own and living with less. It’s actually about finding joy in what you have, not what you don’t have.
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of owning more things, thinking that they will make us happier or more successful. But the truth is, the things that make us truly happy are often the simplest things in life.
Think about the possessions that you treasure the most. Chances are, they hold sentimental value or bring back fond memories. Maybe it’s a piece of jewelry that belonged to your mom or a book that you read over and over again as a child. These are the things that matter most, and they are the things that you should focus on keeping.
When it comes to decluttering, it can be difficult to let go of possessions that we feel attached to, even if they don’t bring us joy. But by learning to let go of these items, we can make room for the things that truly matter.
In today’s fast-paced world, it might be easy to get caught up in the noise and distractions that surround you so be careful. You’ll be bombarded with information from every direction, and it can be overwhelming to try and keep up with it all.
But amidst all this chaos, it’s important to remember to focus on what really matters. Keep in mind that less is more.
3. Shift Your Mindset
Minimalism is often associated with getting rid of physical possessions, but it is so much more than that. Minimalism is a mindset that focuses on mental clarity, simplicity, and intentionality. When we embrace minimalism as a way of life, we can experience a sense of freedom and peace that comes from letting go of the excess and focusing on what truly matters.
One of the main benefits of minimalism is mental clarity. When we simplify our lives and remove the distractions of excess stuff, we create more space in our minds for the things that really matter. We can focus on our goals, our passions, and our relationships without being bogged down by the constant noise of clutter and chaos.
Another important aspect of minimalism as a mindset is the ability to focus. When we have a clear idea of what is truly important to us, we can prioritize our time, energy, and resources accordingly. We can say no to things that don’t align with our values and goals, and we can focus on the things that do. This allows us to be more productive, efficient, and effective in all areas of our lives.
Finally, minimalism as a mindset requires intentionality. We must be intentional about the things we bring into our lives and the things we let go of. We must be intentional about our goals and our values. And we must be intentional about how we spend our time and energy. When we approach life with intention, we can create a life that is truly fulfilling and meaningful.
4. It’s Okay to Let Go
Letting go of possessions can be difficult, but it’s important to remember that they are just things. You will feel lighter and experience more freedom once you let go of the things that no longer serve you.
Minimalism is not just about living with less, but about living with purpose. It’s about finding joy in the things that you have, and letting go of the things that don’t serve you.
By simplifying your life and getting rid of the things that don’t matter, you can reduce stress and anxiety, and create more time and space for the things that do. You can also save money by not buying things you don’t need, and you can gain more freedom and flexibility in your life.
5. Quality over quantity
Invest in high-quality items that will last longer, rather than buying cheap items that will need to be replaced frequently. When it comes to minimalism, it’s important to choose quality over quantity when making purchases.
Minimalism is not just about decluttering your physical space, it is also about simplifying your life. Take advantage of opportunities for unique experiences which come your way. You never know if they will come around again.
6. Simplify your schedule
Minimalism is not just about owning fewer possessions, it’s also about simplifying your schedule. Say “no” to the things that you just don’t want to do.
Creating a routine for your daily tasks can help reduce decision fatigue and simplify your life. Instead of spending time and energy deciding what to do next, following a routine can help you focus on what is important and get things done efficiently.
Try creating a morning routine that includes exercise, prayer, or journaling to start your day off on the right foot. Consider reducing your daily options.
Having too many options can be overwhelming and lead to decision paralysis. For example, limit your wardrobe to a few staple pieces that you can mix and match. This not only simplifies your morning routine but also saves money and reduces clutter in your closet. By simplifying your routines, you can reduce decision fatigue and create a more peaceful life.
7. Practice mindful consumption
Mindful consumption is the practice of being aware of the impact of your purchases on the environment, society, and your own personal finances. It involves making intentional and informed decisions about what you buy and how you consume.
Take time to consider whether you really need something before making a purchase. By practicing mindful consumption, you can reduce waste, save money, and live a more fulfilling life.
So, the next time you’re tempted to make an impulse buy, take a moment to consider the impact it will have on your life and the world around you. Focus on buying only what you need, rather than what you want.
Here are some tips to help you practice mindful consumption:
Research the products you buy to ensure they are good quality.
Borrow or rent items you need instead of buying them new. Especially single-use or rarely used items.
Shop local and support small businesses.
Buy second-hand or refurbished items instead of new ones.
Reduce your overall consumption by decluttering your home and living a more minimalist lifestyle.
8. Embrace imperfection
Perfectionism can be a double-edged sword. I speak from experience on this one. On one hand, it can push you to achieve your goals and strive for excellence. On the other hand, it can hold you back, causing you to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and ultimately, stuck.
Minimalism isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. In your quest for perfection, you may often forget that life is messy and imperfect, and that’s okay. Embracing imperfection is about letting go of the need for everything to be perfect and accepting that it’s okay to make mistakes.
Life is a journey, and it’s important to enjoy every step of the way. When you embrace imperfection, you can appreciate the beauty in the messiness of life. You can learn to enjoy the process, even when it’s not perfect. It’s important to focus on the present moment and find joy in the little things.
Minimalism is not about perfection. It’s about simplifying your life and focusing on what truly matters. Embrace imperfection and let go of the need to have everything “just so.” What a huge relief that is. Trying to be perfect in every aspect of your life can be exhausting. When you embrace imperfection, you can eliminate unnecessary stress and focus on what truly matters. You can prioritize your time and energy on the things that bring you joy and fulfillment.
9. Focus on experiences
Instead of focusing on material possessions, focus on experiences. Travel, try new things, and spend time with loved ones. These experiences will bring more joy and fulfillment than any possession ever could.
Minimalism is all about living a simpler life with fewer possessions and less clutter. But it’s not just about physical belongings. It’s also about the people and experiences we surround ourselves with. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Spend time with those who make you feel good about yourself and encourage you to be your best self. Let go of toxic relationships that drain your energy and bring negativity into your life.
Remember, minimalism isn’t about deprivation or sacrificing the things that bring you joy. It’s about creating space in your life for the things that matter most and letting go of the rest. By surrounding yourself with positivity, you’ll create a happier, more fulfilling life.
This life is short, so say yes to adventures, opportunities to learn and grow, and activities that make you feel alive. Let go of obligations that don’t align with your values or bring you joy. You won’t regret it.
10. Be grateful
Finally, be grateful for what you have. Focus on the things in your life that bring you joy and fulfillment. Gratitude is key in living a minimalist lifestyle.
“At the end of the day, let there be no excuses, no explanations, no regrets.” ― Steve Maraboli
Being grateful is a simple yet powerful way to improve your overall well-being. When you are grateful, you acknowledge the good things in your life, no matter how small they may seem.
It is essential to recognize the good things you have, rather than focusing on the negative. Gratitude can help you shift your perspective, reduce stress, and increase your happiness. So, take a moment each day to reflect on what you are thankful for, and make a habit of expressing your gratitude to those around you.
Being grateful is a choice, and one that can bring positivity and joy into your life. Minimalism can be a rewarding lifestyle that brings more joy and fulfillment into your life. If you’re considering minimalism, start small, focus on what matters, shift your mindset, and be mindful of your consumption habits.
Remember that minimalism is a personal journey and it’s important not to compare yourself to others. Embrace imperfection, focus on experiences, and be grateful for what you have. Don’t wait 30 years to begin!
Advice for boomers ready to unload family treasures
If you are blessed with parents who are still living, now may be a good time to discuss how you plan to handle their belongings once they pass away. It’s not an easy discussion, but it is an important one. I wish I’d been able to have those talks with my parents, but sadly, they both died rather suddenly from a rapidly growing, insidious cancer, within six months of one another. They lived just down the street from me and I became their caregiver. Caring for their basic needs became a full-time job and it never really occurred to me to discuss this while all of our energy was focused on helping them to just make it through another day.
They had “everything” written in their Trust, which was a huge leather-bound binder, and they really believed that’s all I would need in order to handle their estate upon their passing. According to them, their affairs were in order.
Having a Trust is absolutely essential and I recommend all Boomers have one and that you be sure to discuss it with your loved ones. The Trust documents certainly relieved a great deal of pressure for me as we went through the process of settling their estate. But it is literally the tip of the ice burg when you find yourself in this position. It’s difficult to describe it because you’re in mourning. It’s one of the worst times in your life to have to make important decisions.
Once the “big” stuff is handled, the house, cars, etc., you are left with a lifetime of “STUFF” which needs to be dealt with. And guess what? NOBODY wants the prized possessions of your parents, not even you or your children.
Many boomers are charged with having to dispose of your parents belongings. Once you’ve been through this process, you realize how important it is to get your stuff in order. Don’t repeat this process with your children or family members. Start now. Go through one drawer, cupboard, closet at a time. If something is valuable to you, ask your family members if they would like to have it and make a note of it in your Trust binder. Here are a few simple ways to begin the process.
Steps to Begin Decluttering Your Home
Dedicate some time to focus on decluttering
Organizing and straightening up your space takes time. If you’re ready to make some real progress on decluttering your home, schedule a block of time to get started. Make it a priority and stick to it.
Keep only what you’ve used in the last year
Do yourself a favor right now and let go of the mindset “maybe I could use this item in the future.” That kind of thinking isn’t going to work if you want to make your home clutter-free. If you haven’t used an item in the last year, it needs to go to a local donation center or to the curbside in your big trash can.
The timeframe of a year works well because it gives you opportunities to make decisions about seasonal decorations and other rarely used items. Over the course of a year, you will have the opportunity to use every item in your home. If you don’t use something during this time, it’s time to simplify.
One is good, so more is better? No, get rid of duplicate items
If you have multiples of an item (unless we’re talking practical storage items like batteries or lightbulbs) then it needs to go. Sometimes we forget we have something, so we buy it again. I will have my son, Ryan Robinson, address his particular topic in a guest post one day. He has first-hand experience with this issue from having to settle his father’s affairs.
Sometimes we upgrade, but still hold onto a less-useful, lower-quality item.
Why do we do that? It makes no sense to keep the inferior item if we replaced it intentionally. This is especially true when it comes to decluttering and organizing your closets and drawers. Trust me, you do not need ten grey sweatshirts. Sort through your multiples—pants, tops, shoes, and other items. Decide what fits well and which items are in good shape. Keep the best of and donate or trash the rest.
Create a designated spot for items you keep
Everything needs a home. EVERYTHING. Even if it’s going in a drawer. Use containers for drawer organization to help you maximize your storage space. Create ways to house and hold all the stuff you want to keep. And remember, if you don’t use it, toss it.If it’s a product which has expired, toss it.
Cut back on paper clutter by digitalizing your photos
We all have hundreds, if not thousands of photos. Here’s the good news. We live in a day and age where we can store all of them on our computers and in cloud storage.It may be a bit frightening to discard those treasured items, especially if you’re new to digital storage, but once you see how much it cuts back on paper clutter, you’ll be convinced.
It is very time consuming in the beginning if you have lots of photos, but I find that I actually look at the photos more often now that they are digitized. I scanned or took a picture of the original photos and stored them in a “family album” on my computer and backed it up to the cloud. This way, all of us may access them anytime we like. The best part is that I no longer have to store bulky photo albums and/or boxloads of old photos.
Decluttering your home is just the first step. Keeping your home organized and decluttered is where the real challenge comes in. With a little self-discipline, you can train yourself to take the extra step to return an item to it’s “home” immediately after you use it.
Shift your mindset to simplicity and incorporate simple living into your daily life. Remember, less is more. More time, more space, more peace. I am doing this because it makes our life better. Everything in our home enriches our life. A side benefit, which is huge, is that our children will be eternally grateful to us for having the foresight to create a simple life so that they won’t have a huge mess on their hands when our time comes. Hopefully this will help you get started and in my next post, I’ll explore this topic in more detail.
