Physical and financial clutter often go hand-in-hand. A disorganized living space filled with unnecessary items can reflect a habit of holding onto things you don’t need. This mentality can extend to finances, where you may accumulate expenses that drain money without providing value. Both types of clutter can hold you back. Breaking this cycle requires regularly evaluating your possessions and expenses, keeping only what truly adds value to your life.
Let us explore what can be done to reset our environment and therefore our minds.
Declutter First, Then Tackle Finances
- Set a timer and speed declutter different areas – surfaces, closets, rooms. Don’t overthink – grab trash bags and boxes and remove excess.
- Schedule thrift store drop offs and pickups – let them do the heavy lifting.
- Resist holding onto items for extra cash. Decluttering gains are bigger than nickels and dimes for old stuff.
Create a Minimalist Home
- Adopt capsule wardrobe principles – limit yourself to 30 articles of clothing total to force selectivity.
- Categorize household items into “daily use” “occasional use” and “extra” – remove third category.
- Assess furniture, kitchenware, decor – do multi-purpose pieces that suit your lifestyle remain?
Finances Mirror Minimal Home
- List monthly expenses and categorize as “essential”, “nice to have” and “excessive” based on minimalist needs.
- Cancel or reduce expenses in third category – e.g. cable packages, unused gym memberships.
- Consolidate debts and accounts to most essential. Have one credit card, one bank account, one investment account.
Maintain With Money Mindfulness
- Institute one-in-one-out policy for purchases – something must be donated/trashed before acquiring new item.
- Keep minimalist perspective top of mind before spending. Essential or excess?
- Find satisfaction in simplicity – admire decluttered spaces and optimized budgets.
Final perspective
You can tackle physical and financial clutter together! Start by evaluating your belongings and expenses. Keep only what you truly need or brings joy. Cancel unused subscriptions and curb impulse purchases. While challenging at first, imagine the freedom of an organized space and financial flexibility. Try it this weekend: set aside a few hours, play some music, and start decluttering. For tips check out declutter article, You’ve got this!
