Living a minimalist lifestyle with very few possessions can be incredibly liberating. By clearing our homes of unnecessary possessions, we can create space for what is important in our lives. We give ourselves more space to think, to be at peace and to focus on our relationships. It can also be a great financial move as we tend to limit purchases to only the absolutely necessary items, and the decluttering process can also be a money-making project if you sell your unwanted items. If you are looking to clear your home and mind at the same time, this guide includes some handy tips and ideas to help you declutter your home for a more minimalist lifestyle. 

Stop bringing clutter into the home

If you are trying to clear your home of clutter, it makes no sense to be adding to it at the same time. Try to reduce or stop buying things which you do not need. Be realistic about what you and your family need in order to live on an average day – you could always borrow from friends or family if you find yourself missing something on occasion. Click here for more information on how to decide what to keep.

Start small 

Decluttering can be an overwhelming prospect, especially if you have a busy household, so it is best to start small. You might only want to get rid of one item per day. The first things you get rid of should be easy, i.e. no sentimental connotations. You can then work your way up to items which take a bit more of your resolve. When you have reached a level of minimalism you are happy with, it is then just about maintaining it. 

Have a disposal strategy

Before you start sorting your items, think about how you will dispose of different items. Some pieces might be sold while others will need recycling or donating. 

Invest in external storage

While the idea of living a minimalist lifestyle is to keep physical possessions to a minimum, there may be some pieces you simply cannot get rid of. For furniture and possessions which you do not want in the house but cannot bring yourself to part with completely, you should investigate new storage options. This could be a case of investing in cupboards or moving items to an attic, garage or cellar, but you might want to invest in a storage structure outside the home. Of course, the average shed is not very secure and may not protect your belongings from the elements, so you may want to look into steel frame buildings

By removing these items from your home, you can enjoy the space you have created without feeling you have lost vital connections to the past. 

Get permission from the owners

Before you throw out old clothes, toys or anything else, make sure the owner is happy for you do so. Children might find it difficult to part with toys, but here is a guide to helping children to let go of toys.

Detach items from emotions

Guilt, obligation, nostalgia or fear of judgment are all commonly felt when decluttering a home, but your home should only house the items you love. You have the power to decide what you keep and what you do not, and there are plenty of other ways to honour someone special in your life than to display ornaments or furniture.

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