As we finally see the end of what felt like the longest winter, we're finally able to dress for the warmer weather and lock away our winter coats. Overall, it's a great time to start spring cleaning, if you haven't already. With the rising trend of minimalism, there have been plenty of articles about de-cluttering and a plethora of apps and services have amounted providing ways to earn money while selling your old stuff.
This doesn't only apply to clothes and accessories, in fact, a good starting point is often one's desk. Start by cleaning your desk and sort through all the stuff that accumulated there. The next step would be to do the same to the files stored on your laptop, desktop, tablet or phone. Doing so will not only speed up your technology but will reduce visual stress and clutter. The next step would be to finally unsubscribe from all the newsletter and marketing emails your inbox is full of. The same goes for de-cluttering bookmarks because those tend to accumulate over time as well.
After you've taken care of your surroundings and your technology... it's time to de-clutter your life. If you find yourself too strained and stressed, look into reducing your commitments. While using a planner or calendar can help organize these commitments, remember that the biggest commitment is to yourself and your health. Make sure to mindfully maintain if your commitments are providing either value, joy, or both. If it's not, look into reducing the allotted time, if it's an option.
Finally... your mind. Obviously, being more abstract, this is more of a procedure than something simple like cleaning your room may be. Luckily, there are simple steps one can take to achieve this. The first one is simple, breath. Focusing on breathing can impact mindfulness which is a necessary step in term of relaxing a fast-paced mind. Following this, writing is a powerful tool. Making lists, journaling, or even just writing a sentence a day can help create habits that will ease the mind over time. Other tips include going for a walk to clear your mind - as being around fresh air and nature usually help, as does talking out whatever's bothering you to a trusted or loved one. In general, it helps to slow down. This means reducing multi-tasking, in order to lengthen your attention span, and setting a prioritization order for tasks at hand.
Once you incorporate these practices, you will slowly start to see a more minimalist and positive mindset, and bitter living habits.