So time is flying and I’m already onto day 10 of the 30 day minimalism game. If you’re wondering what I’m talking about then check out this post. Not only have I already let go of 55 items but I’m experiencing some ‘side-effects’…
I’m noticing that I want to bring less into my life.
I’m taking this as a positive sign, because if I simply decluttered without changing my mindset, then a few months down the line I’d have amassed more stuff and I’d be back where I started.
Noticing the changes
Some of the changes I’ve noticed within my mindset are quite interesting. I sidestepped the grocery shop this week, as I have enough food to keep me going for at least another week.
Previously, I’d have gone shopping because it was part of my routine. Yet now I’m looking rationally at what I have.
I do like to make fresh juices or smoothies each morning, but I have enough fruit and vegetables in the fridge and freezer to last me another week. I’ll just need to rely on the hardier items, like carrots and apples, for my juices as the week draws to a close and my supplies dwindle.
I also seem to be more appreciative of what I have. Yes I’m a book-a-holic, but I’ve found myself more excited about reading the books I have rather than wanting more. It feels like I’m experiencing a pause where I can appreciate what I have.
When new things have come in, such as items I’d ordered with my Christmas money, I’ve found myself adopting a one-in, one-out rule. So I’ve let go of an extra unused item for that day. I feel like this is a rule I’ll continue with once the 30 day minimalism game is over.
Creating internal space
But one big change I’ve noticed is that I’m not rushing to fill up my mental space. Usually I have an ongoing ‘to do’ list running around in my head, instead I’ve found myself craving quiet time and stillness.
It feels like as I’m creating space in my physical world, I’m also creating space in my mental world. I’m expanding the void – and it’s incredibly freeing. I’ve been reading, sleeping, walking and meditating more – as well as appreciating the silence.
I caught myself this morning, mid-podcast search, and became aware that I was trying to fill the void. So instead of continuing with my search, I just stopped. I realised that I’m constantly looking for a ‘go to’, something to fill the space. It’s time to stop that and allow it to just be.
I’ve done the same when I’ve reached out for my phone to check my social media. A fly on the wall would have seen my outstreched arm suddenly pull back before making contact with my phone. These habits are so ingrained that we do anything to keep ourselves distracted.
We don’t allow ourselves much space anymore, we’re constantly scratching the itch, applying distraction as a soothing balm. Personally, I’m more likely to experience burnout than boredom, it’s time to change that. So as I expand the void in my external word, I intend to do the same in my internal world.
An unexpected journey
I got so much more than I bargained for when I started the 30 day minimalism game – and we’re only on day 10! I never expected external decluttering to start an internal revolution. I’m intrigued to see where the next 20 days will take me.
If you want to follow my progress, then check out my Twitter and Instagram story updates. Or maybe you’d like to start your own 30 day minimalism challenge – you can check out the rules here.
You might feel that the minimalism game isn’t for you, and that’s fine. But over the next week, I challenge you to take some time to observe yourself.
What are your ‘go to’ habits and distractions? Really take the time to notice them. And if you’re feeling brave, then step away from them for a while, allow yourself to experience the void and see what you notice.
Be curious about what you learn and the actions you take.
Image courtesy of Arnaud Weyts on Unsplash.