
With all of the decluttering that I have done since beginning my minimalist journey, I have yet to truly master the art of creating a beautiful closet. I do feel satisfied with the closet in which I store my capsule wardrobe. Yet the hallway and coat closets could definitely use some unconditional love.
You can see the full tour of our modern apartment here.
We have been in our modern apartment now for almost a year. During this time it has become extremely clear what I actually use daily and what I never even think to look for. The items that I never use are usually hiding in the back of the closet. These same items obviously create closet clutter.
There is something so magical and ethereal about coming home to a beautiful and organized home. But cringing when you open a closet door just kills the tune.
The music has now completely stopped, and the reality of procrastination is real. For the past week I have consolidated all of my miscellaneous items that were once spread out among three closets and have moved them to the hallway closet. The major benefit of consolidating these items is to have a clear perspective of all of my personal possessions that are literally just holding space. It is possible that I only use 25% of these things daily/weekly.
I have never been one to fully count my personal possessions even though I have tried on various occasions, yet I just don’t like the idea of keeping anything that I do not love. Decluttering excess furniture, decor, clothing, and books has been a breeze compared to the world of miscellaneous things, at least for me. Recently I cleared out beading and craft supplies which were given to me yet never used, as well as DIY cosmetic ingredients which were expired or never intended to be used any time in the near future.
The process of decluttering always has me questioning why I keep certain things, and especially why I fear letting go of others.
For someone whose only New Year’s resolution this year was freedom on every level, keeping anything out of fear is definitely not freedom. I have been acknowledging the parts of me that are fearful if I let something go, I will regret it later. Yes these emotions are still very real for me, even having lightened my load so tremendously over the past few years. Over time decluttering feels so innate and easy, but other times it can be a very emotional experience.
Having fears makes me human, pushing through them makes me stronger.
It is amazing how the simple act of decluttering forces you to dig deeper into your own insecurities. I also think once you’ve actually released items that are no longer serving you, the empowerment that you feel is so intense because you faced some of these insecurities.
This weekend I plan to continue looking over the miscellaneous items in my closet and being completely honest with myself. Holding each item and noticing the energy and emotions that come up help with deciding what to keep and what to let go of. This concept from Marie Kondo’s book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing, has been truly helpful for me. It takes you out of your rational mind and into your heart.
True freedom is living from your heart.
Although my home definitely looks beyond tidy, the truth has always been in the closet. I love the clothes in my capsule wardrobe, yet I can’t say the same about everything else in my closet. I wonder what that will feel like. I guess it’s time to find out!
How is your minimalist journey going?
(Image by Dawn Michelle)
Sandy says
“…the truth has always been in the closet.”
This statement really touched me. It’s like delving into your heart for final values clarification.
Interested in how this goes. Thank you for sharing your feelings.
Dawn Michelle says
Hi Sandy,
I honestly wasn’t able to get as much decluttering done this weekend as I hoped since I have family in town. I’m looking forward to seeing how this goes myself! Thanks for your comment!
Kisha says
Loved this! Excellent and so true and relatable!
Dawn Michelle says
Thanks Kisha!