De-cluttering Sources and Inspiration

The journey that we've been on this year to de-clutter our home has taken me to some really unexpected places. I feel much calmer, more centered, and alive. I feel like I'm able to truly relish everyday moments in my life, and identify what my real desires are. Having less stuff hasn't left me feeling empty, or like I don't have enough. Quite the opposite. Having less stuff has lead me to really love, and take of the things already in my life. I'm now looking at things I buy as an investment, not a throw away item to have now and dispose of in a year when I get tired of it, or the trend fades.

Today I wanted to share some of the resources I've used for de-cluttering over the last few months. Some of these sites address tips for de-cluttering, others address organization tricks and methods, and still others address the emotional impact of clutter on our lives. I think each of these aspects are important when addressing the clutter in your home. Here are my resources:

Zen Habits- Leo Babauta is pretty new to me, but apparently he's not new to millions of readers who visit his website each day. His posts have really spoken to me throughout this process and helped me identify areas I didn't even know I needed help in. His about page states, "Zen Habits is about finding simplicity in the daily chaos of our lives." I really think it does just that. Leo also writes the blog mnmlist, all about minimalism, and equally good read.

Apartment Therapy- Oh how I love this site, and all its wonderful resources. I read Apartment Therapy everyday, and have gleaned so many useful tips and tricks from its virtual pages. From decorating, to organizing, to craft they have it all!

Jess Lively- I love reading Jess Lively's blog and if you're looking to get organized, de-clutter, and motivate yourself to succeed her blog is a great place to start. I think I read through her entire archive in my pursuit to downsize. A great read indeed.

Design Sponge- When it comes to home decor Design Sponge is where it's at. Their home tours, and DIYs blow me away time and time again. Design Sponge is my ultimate resource for redecorating our home. For inspiration it can't be beat.

Though we had to speed up our initial goal of downsizing by half due to a move, I don't think we're done with this goal, or change of mindset. It's a goal that you have to consistently work on, and have patience with as you inch forward. I still have a lot of clothes I'd like to throw out the window, and decor pieces I'd like to upgrade, but monetarily we're not there yet. Right now our focus is buying quality or quantity, taking our time in deciding on purchases, and using up things we already own but don't love. Growing and changing is a beautiful thing, but don't rush it (says the girl who moved house 3 states away in less than a month *wink*) big kiss, bekuh

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