Declutter Your Life: Beyond the Physical to a More Streamlined Existence

The journey through life, while often rewarding, has a near-inevitable side effect: the gradual accumulation of clutter. Like rings on a tree, each passing year seems to add layers of possessions – clothing acquired over different phases, souvenirs from memorable trips, countless photographs capturing moments in time, an assortment of knick-knacks that once held significance, tools for projects long completed, and a growing collection of kitchen gadgets. Simultaneously, the spaces we inhabit – from our closets and attics to our drawers and storage containers – steadily become more and more filled.

It’s a familiar scenario. Do you truly need those extra 150 high school senior photos, most of which likely capture awkward hairstyles and questionable fashion choices? Can you honestly envision a future where that oversized foam finger from a long-forgotten sporting event will serve a practical purpose? And let’s be honest, the VHS tapes gathering dust in the attic aren’t exactly poised for a triumphant comeback in the age of streaming.

Every so often, a reckoning is in order. A purge, in the form of a bustling yard or garage sale, a charitable donation run to Goodwill, or the simple act of bagging up unwanted items for the curb, becomes a necessary ritual to reclaim our living spaces.

However, the clutter that weighs us down in life extends far beyond just tangible “things.” It can manifest in the form of overwhelming bills, a wallet overflowing with rarely used credit cards, a smartphone screen crammed with forgotten apps, a growing list of unused streaming service subscriptions, and a general accumulation of miscellaneous “stuff” that adds complexity without adding value. Just like our physical spaces, these less tangible aspects of our lives can become congested and in need of a good clearing out. Here’s a practical guide to better manage and limit the various forms of life’s clutter:

Conquering the Closet: Clothes Edition

Implement a strict “one-year rule” for your wardrobe. If an item of clothing hasn’t been worn in the past twelve months, it’s time for it to go – whether it’s sold, donated, or responsibly discarded. Resist the temptation to hold onto “fat clothes” as a fallback plan. Instead, focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and if you do achieve weight loss, reward your efforts with new, well-fitting clothes that make you feel good.

Taming Drawers and Closets: The 75% Rule

Adopt a simple yet effective capacity rule for your storage spaces. Aim to keep no drawer or closet filled beyond 75% of its maximum capacity. This allows for easier organization, prevents items from getting lost or damaged, and creates a visual sense of spaciousness. For every new item that enters a drawer or closet, make it a practice to remove an older, less-used item.

Digital Detox: App Management

Consider the sheer number of apps residing on your smartphone. Estimates suggest that the average user has around 30 apps installed, many of which go untouched for weeks or even months. Make a conscious effort to be below average. Set a personal limit for the maximum number of apps you’ll keep on your phone and regularly audit your collection, deleting those that no longer serve a purpose.

Financial Pruning: Credit Card Reduction

Credit reporting agencies indicate that the average American carries around four major credit cards. While credit cards can be useful tools, they often come with high interest rates and can inadvertently encourage impulsive spending. Take control of your debt and consider limiting the number of credit cards you actively use. Consolidating balances or closing unused accounts can simplify your finances and potentially save you money on interest payments.

Subscription Sanity: Billing Inventory

Many people are surprisingly unaware of the exact number of recurring monthly bills and subscription services they are signed up for. Take a comprehensive inventory of all your regular outgoings, from streaming platforms and software subscriptions to gym memberships and other recurring charges. Critically evaluate each one and make a conscious effort to reduce the number of services you utilize. You might be surprised at how much money you can save by cutting unnecessary subscriptions.

Just as decluttering your physical and digital spaces can bring a sense of relief and control, now might also be an opportune time to take stock of your financial plans, including your life insurance coverage. Our team of experienced professionals is here to assist you in this important process. Contact us today to take the first step in refining your existing life insurance program or establishing a new one. We offer complimentary life insurance reviews and can provide you with no-obligation price quotes tailored to your individual needs and goals. Taking control of your financial future can lead to greater peace of mind and, yes, even better sleep!