7 Things to Declutter to Live Lighter in 2023

Our oldest daughter turned nine last month. In true minimalist fashion, I gifted her an experience: ice skating. Just she and I, for two whole hours, gliding among a thin crowd on the ice.

It was our first solo outing since baby Emelia was born, and, if you'd asked our oldest, the fact that she was out dodging strangers instead of her siblings was super meaningful.

Blades on frozen ground, our strides were shaky at first. But within ten minutes we were gliding in a rhythm. And we were having So. Much. Fun.

As we skated, my mind began to drift. I'd been working on social media earlier that day, and soon, it began barraging my thoughts.

Would I document this outing on my Instagram? Would we do a selfie, a video, a solo shot or pose?

I was in the moment. But I wasn't.

Not completely. Wondering how I'd capture the moment and if I'd display it to the world was keeping me from really experiencing it.

I was experiencing it, distracted.

The “ah-ha moment” to my semi-present state was all I needed. I began intentionally tuning into my senses, absorbing the bright colored snow gear on swirling skaters, the faint smell of coffee from a nearby shop, the cadence of blades on ice, the weight of my daughter's hand in mine.

I was back. Distracted thoughts silenced with the power of now.

The deeper I journey into minimalism, the more I realize there's always something more to declutter. Although these days, it's usually some type of inner clutter (like distraction), instead of physical possessions.

The more I work to release the things that aren't serving me, the lighter—and better—life becomes.

Here are 7 things to declutter to live lighter in 2023:

Read the full article here!

Julia Ubbenga is a freelance journalist whose teachings on minimalism, simplicity, and intentional living have reached thousands of people worldwide through her blog. Julia practices what she preaches in her Kansas City home with her husband, two extremely lively young daughters, two-year-old son, and six-month-old baby girl. You can also find her on Instagram and now also on Facebook.

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I listened to one of the best TEDx Talks I've ever heard this week and wanted to share it with you! Pass it on to someone who needs to hear it!

Listen to the TEDx talk here!