We had to move apartments recently (yes, in the middle of the pandemic). Everyone asked how I would manage it. However, I simply shared that all my possessions fit into three bags; moving is easy when you’ve adopted minimalism.
This brings me to the point of this article – many have expressed a desire to escape the rat race and travel the world but feel unsure of where to begin, especially in these uncertain times. Therefore, if you find yourself with extra time, I recommend starting with decluttering and simplifying your life.
How to Start Decluttering When Overwhelmed
Step #1: Acknowledge Your Hoarding Tendencies
Recognizing that you might be a hoarder is the first essential step. Most of us have accumulated more than we genuinely need. Therefore, it’s vital to acknowledge this fact. The objective isn’t to vilify those with possessions but to understand that we can all benefit from a bit of decluttering.
Reflect on your upbringing: what experiences might have led to you keeping items that no longer hold value? Delving into this can help you comprehend your attachment to material goods.
Step #2: Explore Marie Kondo’s Approach
Marie Kondo is renowned for her decluttering philosophy, making the process both enjoyable and uplifting. Her mantra, “does it spark joy?” can guide you in evaluating your possessions. Moreover, consider mantras such as:
My possessions don’t possess me
I am happy to be gaining space
I make way for new life
Step #3: Embrace Digitization
Thanks to the digital age, we no longer need to cling to physical books, DVDs, or photos. Everything can be stored compactly on a hard drive. This transformation not only simplifies your life but also helps reduce clutter significantly.
Step #4: Adopt a Zero Waste Mindset
Consider adopting a zero waste approach to minimize physical clutter further. By avoiding plastic packaging and disposable items, you’ll not only help the environment but also keep your living space cleaner.
Step #5: Treat Yourself and Others Wisely
Having reduced your possessions significantly, it’s crucial to make thoughtful decisions regarding future purchases. Each time you buy, ask yourself if it brings you joy. Moreover, invest in quality products that serve multiple purposes to enhance your lifestyle as a traveler.
Wrap Up: Starting Your Decluttering Journey
Thank you for reading! I hope these insights help you on your decluttering journey, making it easier to travel light and enjoy life to the fullest.
