New Year-Better You: Beginning a Minimalist Journey in 2025

Welcome to 2025! The past year is a reflection of the choices you've made—whether meticulously planned or unexpectedly thrust upon you. The start of a new year is always a time to reflect, adjust, and improve the life we live. It brings thoughts of fresh slates, better living, improved finances, and a host of other life changes. Whether you've been inspired by TikToks promoting consumption core, blogs and vlogs on minimalism, or books on the magic of tidying up, here you can learn all about starting your journey on decluttering and living a more intentional, minimalist life.

Embarking on a decluttering journey can be transformative, leading to a more organized, peaceful, and intentional living space.

1. Set Your Goals

• Define Your Vision: What do you want to achieve with decluttering? A serene home, less stress, more space?

• Set Realistic Goals: Break down the process into manageable tasks.

2. Make a Plan

• Choose a Method: Decide on a decluttering method that suits your lifestyle (e.g., KonMari, room-by-room).

• Create a Schedule: Set aside specific times for decluttering sessions.

3. Gather Supplies

• Boxes and Bags: Have boxes for items to keep, donate, trash, and relocate.

• Cleaning Supplies: Keep basic cleaning supplies on hand to tidy up as you go.

4. Start Small

• Pick an Easy Area: Start with a small, manageable area like a drawer or a shelf to build momentum.

• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge your progress to stay motivated.

5. Sort and Declutter

• One Item at a Time: Assess each item for its utility, joy, or necessity.

• Ask Key Questions: Do I use this? Does it bring me joy? Do I need it?

6. Organize

• Designate Spaces: Assign a specific place for each item you decide to keep.

• Use Storage Solutions: Utilize storage bins, shelves, and organizers to keep items tidy.

7. Dispose Responsibly

• Donate: Give usable items to charity or those in need. Offer items to shelters is another great option

• Recycle: Follow proper recycling guidelines for recyclable items.

• Trash: Dispose of unusable items properly.

8. Maintain

• Regular Reviews: Periodically review and adjust your space to prevent future clutter.

• Adopt a Minimalist Mindset: Be mindful of new items you bring into your home and adhere to the "one in, one out" rule.

9. Seek Support

• Involve Family or Friends: Encourage others to join you in the process for motivation and support.

• Online Communities: Join decluttering and minimalism groups for inspiration and tips.

10. Reflect and Enjoy

• Reflect: Take time to appreciate the progress you've made and how it impacts your life.

• Enjoy Your Space: Relish the newfound space, peace, and simplicity in your environment.

Remember, the journey to decluttering is personal and should be paced in a way that feels right for you. The key is to start and take it one step at a time.Use Storage Solutions: Utilize storage bins, shelves, and organizers to keep items tidy.

If you are in the 7 cities area of Virginia, consider these options for donations:

1. DAV: http://davthrift.org/index.php

2. Help Hampton: https://helphampton.org/mostneededitems/

3. Pennisula Rescue Mission: https://prm.info/thrift-store

4. Salvation Army: https://satruck.org/donate/choose

5. Goodwill: https://goodwillvirginia.org/donate/

6. City of Norfolk Homeless Services: https://www.norfolk.gov/5144/Homeless-Services

7. Genieve Shelter: https://www.thegenieveshelter.org/donate#cash_donation

8. For Kids: https://www.forkids.org/host-a-drive

This is not an extensive list but a good start as you consider where to take your decluttered items.

Decluttering is beneficial in so many ways. As we clear physical clutter, we begin to gain mental clarity and can start using our energy toward creating the fulfilling life we want. By surrounding ourselves with only the things that add value and joy to our lives, we create a more peaceful, productive environment. Remember, every step taken in this journey of decluttering is a step toward a more intentional and enriched life. Here's to a clearer mind, a serene space, and the endless possibilities that await you. Happy decluttering!