Creating space for clarity, creativity and fresh perspectives

We returned from holiday in springtime, when fresh shoots were sprouting, ready for new beginnings. 

A major clear out creates space and clarity to reorganise and reshape our lives. 

Too much clutter accumulates over time, tied up with past lives and identities. Sometimes fear keeps us holding on to stuff, just in case, after it has served its purpose. 

We are choosing to enjoy what we have while we can, making good use of it, then when the time comes letting it go.

The hardest part of a decluttering project is getting started. It's amazing what you discover during the process.

As we sorted through items we asked these questions: Do I feel energised looking at this, or thinking about it? Does it inspire me? When did I last use it?

Rather than trying to do things all at once, we chose the best time of the day (morning) and moved through different home and office areas at our own pace. We started with an area that irritated us the most (the garage) then began sorting through stored books and paperwork. 

As we progressed, many items were recycled, repurposed or given away. 

Clearing away old books, reference books and rarely used cookbooks has created space for new interests. Old books were donated to our annual book fair along with board games, DVDs and CDs. 

Extra bedding and floor mats were gratefully accepted by Women’s Refuge for families in need. Steve’s academic regalia was donated to his old University (Canterbury)  for another graduand to use. 

Spring and autumn are ideal times for wardrobe refreshment. Working from home means more casual attire. Taking a good look at the clothes I am actually wearing, I decide what needs to be replaced or repurposed, and what I still love and am not ready to let go. Steve discovered some useful casual shirts sorting through his gear.  

We sorted through boxes of paperwork to discard or keep. Organising files reminded us of past achievements, and work on significant projects during turbulent times, that made a difference. Strong friendships have endured long after work projects ended. 

Our curiosity and love of learning lives on. Sifting through boxes of material reminded us how much we have already learned and experienced. Some valuable resources are worth keeping.

Releasing possessions, like scuba diving gear, signals the end of an era. We look back on precious diving memories, and still snorkel and swim.  

Letting go of stuff frees up space to live life fully with what belongs, and releases creative energy for new interests and projects.   

We are more connected to the things we love and the uplifting spaces around us. With more space and flexibility, we can focus on the things that are important to us. 

Our job is not done. 

Sorting through print and digital photos is another daunting task which lies ahead. My big lesson is being more selective about the photos I take, so I have more real experiences, less distractions and less photo sorting to do! 

When finished, we will reward ourselves for a job well done. Next time we won’t leave it so long before our next big clear out.