When you are busy with life, kids, family, work, studying, and anything else that takes up time in your schedule, things in your home can really pile up. It makes spring cleaning a significant project. But, if you implemented minimalism, it becomes a lot easier to keep house as you keep busy. Learn more about how to start practicing minimalism and how it will benefit your home in the long run.
When you want to start practicing minimalism, start by decluttering. Take the time to clean out your dressers, closets, garage, linen closet, and every room in between. Upon deciding that minimalism is best for your home and lifestyle, make sure you make a plan - i.e., a weekend - to deep clean and declutter your home. As you do, follow the 90/90 rule of minimalism. The 90/90 rule of minimalism states that if you haven’t used an item in the past 90 days, and won’t use it in the next 90 days, you can get rid of it. Sort items into three piles: donate, sell, and toss.
After you’ve decluttered your home, you are going to instantly feel more relieved. Choosing minimalism will make your home easier to clean in the long term, improve your mood and productivity, and, if you have a smaller home, open up the space. To maintain minimalism into the long term, remember to shop quality, not quantity, audit your life often, and work on cutting out meaningless expenses. Auditing your life means decluttering on a regular basis, not bringing in extraneous items, and eliminating wherever possible. When every item has a home, it’s unlikely that you’ll have a large decluttering job again in the future.
Minimalism, at first, can be daunting. So, as with any big change, you should start slow. You may not be completely into the minimalist lifestyle for a few months to a year, but making little changes can make a big difference. Whenever you go shopping or decide that you may need new items, like clothing or household items, make sure everything has a purpose. Don’t let someone judge you for bringing items into your home that are essential. Not everyone’s life is the same - some of us need more than others, especially those with pets or kids. Practicing minimalism means that every item in your home has a place and purpose.
Whether you are moving into a spacious three-bedroom townhomes in Charleston or a small studio apartment, we can all benefit from minimalism. From financially to emotionally and mentally, minimalism is a great way to clear your home and clear your mind.
