As the saying goes, “less is more”, and this couldn’t ring truer when it comes to creating a serene living space. Clutter often leads to stress and anxiety, while a clean, minimalistic environment can foster calmness and tranquility. In my journey towards achieving a harmonious living space, I found that de-cluttering was the first, and perhaps, the most crucial step.
By letting go of certain objects, I was able to create a space that not only looks visually appealing but also promotes peace and relaxation. Here are the 15 objects I parted ways with to make room for serenity:
1. Unused Kitchen Appliances
Everyone has that one kitchen appliance that was bought on a whim or gifted but has never been used. For me, it was a specialty coffee maker that was collecting dust on my countertop. Its presence was not only taking up precious kitchen real estate but was also a constant reminder of wastage and impulsive buying decisions.
Getting rid of it brought a sense of relief and opened up space in my kitchen. It encouraged me to assess the utility of my possessions and only keep what I genuinely need and use. Plus, it was a step towards a cleaner, minimalistic kitchen that is much easier to navigate.
2. Old Magazines and Newspapers
There was a time when I would hoard magazines and newspapers for their interesting articles or beautiful images. But I soon realized they were piling up, and I was hardly revisiting them. They were consuming space physically and mentally; the growing pile became a source of stress.
I decided to recycle all the old newspapers and magazines, keeping only digital copies of the articles or images that inspired me. This freed up a surprising amount of space and also significantly reduced visual clutter. Now, I subscribe to digital versions of magazines, promoting sustainability and maintaining a clean, clutter-free environment.
3. Outdated Electronics
We all have outdated electronics lying around in drawers or closets, thinking they might come in handy someday. For me, it was an old DVD player, some outdated cell phones, and a broken camera. They were not only consuming space but also creating an unnecessary mess.
Donating or recycling these electronics was quite liberating. It not only helped me de-clutter but also made me realize the value of moving with the times and not holding on to obsolete items. Now, I ensure to dispose of any electronic item that has become obsolete or is no longer in use, keeping my space organized and up-to-date.
4. Unfinished Projects
Unfinished projects, whether it’s a half-knitted scarf or an incomplete scrapbook, often take up room and serve as a constant reminder of our failed attempts to complete what we started. They can subconsciously add to our stress levels and make our space seem chaotic.
By getting rid of these unfinished projects, I was able to make room for new ideas and possibilities. It also served as a reminder to commit to projects that I am genuinely passionate about and can realistically complete. Now, when I start a new project, I make sure to see it through, or I let it go without feeling guilty.
5. Excess Bedding and Towels
Like many people, I used to have an excess of bedding and towels. They were not only occupying considerable storage space but also making it difficult to keep my linen closet organized.
Deciding to keep only two sets of bedding per bed and a reasonable number of towels based on the size of my family freed up a lot of storage space and made it easier to manage my linen closet. It also made me more mindful of my consumption habits and encouraged me to only buy what I need.
6. Old Prescription Glasses
It’s easy to hold on to old prescription glasses thinking you might need them someday. They take up drawer space and create clutter.
Donating my old glasses to organizations that redistribute them to people in need was an excellent way to clear out space and help others. Now, I keep only the most recent pair and the previous one as a backup.
7. Old Paint Cans
Old paint cans can take up a lot of room in your storage area. More often than not, the paint inside these cans has dried up or is no longer needed.
Disposing of these old paint cans properly freed up space and made my storage area look neater. Now, I only buy paint when I need it and in quantities that I can use up completely.
8. Unused Furniture
Unused furniture pieces can take up a significant amount of space and contribute to a feeling of clutter.
I sold or donated the furniture pieces that were not in use, which made my space look much larger and more open. Now, I only keep furniture that I use regularly and that contributes to the aesthetics of my space.
9. Outdated Decor
Outdated decor items can make your space look cluttered and less appealing. They can also subconsciously make you feel stuck in the past.
By getting rid of outdated decor, I was able to refresh my space and make it look more modern and appealing. Now, I only keep decor items that I love and that match my current style preference.
10. Old Makeup and Beauty Products
Old makeup and beauty products not only take up space but can also be harmful if used past their expiration dates.
I got rid of all expired or unused makeup and beauty products, which not only freed up space but also helped me streamline my beauty routine. Now, I only buy beauty products that I know I will use regularly and can finish before they expire.
11. Damaged Clothes and Shoes
Holding onto damaged clothes and shoes that you never wear only contributes to closet clutter.
I donated or recycled all damaged clothes and shoes that were beyond repair. This not only made my closet more organized but also made it easier for me to find and wear the clothes and shoes I love.
12. Unused Exercise Equipment
Unused exercise equipment can take up a lot of space and serve as a constant reminder of your failed fitness goals.
I sold my unused exercise equipment, which made my space look much bigger and cleaner. Now, I only keep fitness equipment that I use regularly.
13. Old School Textbooks
Old school textbooks can take up a considerable amount of shelf space and are unlikely to be used again.
I sold or donated my old textbooks, which not only freed up shelf space but also helped others who could make use of these books. Now, I only keep books that I love and want to read again.
14. Excess Plastic Containers
Excess plastic containers can take up a lot of kitchen space and create clutter.
I recycled all my excess plastic containers and switched to a few good quality glass containers that are more durable and healthier. This not only freed up kitchen space but also helped reduce my plastic usage.
15. Junk Mail
Junk mail can easily pile up and create unnecessary paper clutter.
I opted out of junk mail, which not only reduced paper clutter but also saved trees. Now, I only receive mail that I really need and want.