In my last post I talked about how much focusing on experiences instead of things can help reduce stress and increase happiness.
Now today, I’m going to go a step further and we’re going to focus on getting rid of things. And I’m referring to both physical and mental things. The idea here is to find happiness in simplicity.
People find vacations relaxing. Why do you think that is? It’s because when on vacation you’re away from your stuff and all the responsibilities that come with it. A vacation means you’re not worried about projects and chores around the house that need to be done. Instead, you’re in a space where you can just sit, relax and be. While on vacation, you’re not worrying about appointments you have to get to or get the kids to, or being available for phone calls, etc. This allows you to focus on the people with you and to be present.
It’s not really possible to replicate the feeling of vacation once you get back home, but instead what can be done is to reduce the clutter in your life and simplify things. This allows you to focus on what’s important and what makes you happy. Here are some simple ideas to help you start decluttering.
Decluttering Your Home
We’re going to start with something simple, so you don’t get overwhelmed and give up before you even begin. And the simplest way to do this? Pick one room and start with that. Don’t move on to the next room until you’ve finished this one. I would even recommend that you might want to start with the smallest room in your house. Go through that room and find the things you don’t need or no longer want. These can then be thrown out or given away. The idea is that in the end you are left with things you appreciate and a lot more clear space that’s more relaxing to live in and easier to keep clean and organized.
Decluttering Your Calendar
Once you’ve decluttered your home, move on to your calendar, or the activities and obligations in your life. Being busy may make you feel productive, but often the best use of your time is to cut out all the extra stuff that really isn’t necessary and doesn’t bring you joy. Don’t be afraid to be ruthless and even a little impolite at times. Feeling obligated shouldn’t be a good enough reason why you’re doing something. Get rid of it and then use the gained time to do things that help you relax, get ahead, and most importantly make you happy.
Decluttering Your Mind
And last but certainly not least it’s time to declutter your brain. It’s amazing how much “junk” we let build up in there. We all have this running list of things we should do, ideas for future projects, what to cook, what to shop for etc. What we don’t realize is how much brain power that kind of thinking takes up.
So, how exactly do we declutter our mind? My favorite way to do this is to do what’s known as a “brain dump”. Get out a piece of paper and start writing it all down. Everything you have in your head that you think you need to remember from the book you want to read next and what to cook for dinner tomorrow, to the meeting you need to schedule at work. Write it all down. Don’t judge, don’t edit, and don’t try to organize it. All of that can come later. For now write it down to get it out of your head.
When you’re done notice how much lighter and happier you feel with each area of your life decluttered. While it isn’t the easiest thing to do, it is well worth it and something you should try to do regularly.
Would you be interested in an exciting, unique, and fun way to experience happiness? If so be sure to check out Experience.Happy – our newest coloring adventure, a 5 senses immersive coloring adventure! Each month, we’ll present to you a different topic on something that will make you happy.