Can you believe we're on the brink of a brand new year? Today I'm sharing a yearly ritual I do between Christmas and New Year's, which I refer to as "purging". But most people call it organizing.
During this time, most of us get a little breather from the hustle of the holidays and some time away from work. Why not use this time to give yourself the gift of organization, not just in your home, but also your digital and mental space?
Let's dive into some tips on how to embrace the organizing spirit during these days.
Home Sweet Home: Physical Organization
First things first, let's tackle the tangible stuff. It's time to declutter and organize your physical space. Start by going room by room to go through each closet, drawer, and box. Identify items that you aren't using anymore, want to donate, or resell. The spaces you clear can make room for a fresh start in the new year and will significantly improve your mental health.
And don't forget those spaces that you don't reevaluate often such as basement boxes! Unearth them, sort through the clutter, and organize what's worth keeping. It's amazing how this process can bring back forgotten memories and make space for the new ones to come.
Channel your inner Marie Kondo and take everything out. Ask yourself, does it bring you joy? If not, it might be time to let it go. As you get rid of old items, it clears energetic spaces for the new items you bring into your home over the holidays as gifts and in the new year.
Digital Delight: Organizing Your Virtual Life
Now, let's shift our focus to the digital realm. Our phones and computers can be a jungle of forgotten files and cluttered inboxes. Start by organizing your email – create folders, archive what's necessary, and unsubscribe from those newsletters that no longer serve you. You can be even more organized in the new year by setting up automations for your inbox that filter emails and put them into assigned folders.
Items such as text messages, digital files, and photos can also pile up quickly. Take time to sort through them, archive important ones, and delete the rest. Your phone contacts and applications could use some love too – delete what you don't use and organize the rest into folders. The most important thing is that you create a system that works for you, this could be by organizing files by date or category.
For most of us, the largest portion of our digital lives is most likely social media and it can be a bit overwhelming. This is your opportunity to unfollow accounts that don't bring you joy or value. Clean out and delete old direct messages that have been living in your inbox. Go through your saved posts and get rid of ones you no longer need to reference. As your curate your online space remember that your timeline should be a source of inspiration, not stress.
Financial Fitness: Managing Your Monetary Realm
Now that we've addressed the physical and digital aspects of organization, let's turn our attention to another crucial facet of our lives—finances. The end of the year is an opportune time to assess your financial situation and make necessary adjustments for a prosperous new year.
Begin by reviewing your expenses and creating a budget for the upcoming year. Identify areas where you can cut back or save more. Consider automating bill payments to ensure you never miss a due date. This simple step can alleviate stress, improve your mental health and contribute to a more organized financial life.
Organize your financial documents, including bank statements, receipts, and records. File them in a systematic manner, making it easier to access information when needed. If you have outstanding debts, devise a plan to tackle them strategically. Set financial goals for the new year, whether it's saving for a major purchase, building an emergency fund, or investing for the future.
Remember, a well-organized financial life provides a sense of control and security, contributing positively to your overall well-being.
Relational Harmony: Nurturing Meaningful Connections
The last item we should address is our relationships as they play a significant role in our mental health and overall happiness. Use this reflective time to evaluate and nurture your personal connections.
Start by reaching out to friends and family. Schedule quality time together, whether it's a virtual catch-up or an in-person gathering. Consider expressing gratitude to those who have positively impacted your life during the past year. Clear any emotional clutter by addressing unresolved issues or misunderstandings. Prioritize cultivating relationships that inspire and uplift you.
Additionally, consider setting boundaries in your relationships. It's essential to have clear communication about your needs and expectations. Healthy boundaries contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling social life.
Embrace Imperfection, Celebrate Progress
As we conclude this journey of year-end organization, let's acknowledge the beauty in imperfection. Life is an ongoing journey, and our efforts to organize it are continuous. Be kind to yourself, celebrate small wins, and recognize that every step contributes to your well-being and mental health.
As you step into the new year, embrace the imperfect and unfinished. You're not alone—surround yourself with positivity, be patient, and believe in your ability to thrive. May your coming year be filled with self-discovery, resilience, and progress. Here's to a clutter-free, reflective, and thriving new year!