I started my first month of clearing in small 10-minute increments. Accessible areas that weren’t too emotionally taxing. I felt driven and motivated.

Here’s my list for August:

Focus was on drawers/closets

✔︎Lower bathroom cabinet

✔︎Hall closet

✔︎Mudroom shelves/cabinets

✔︎Kitchen—storage bag drawer/under sink

✔︎Living room—end tables

✔︎Dining room—mystery boxes

✔︎Hall linen closet—

✔︎Bedroom linen closet

Main bedroom bathroom cabinets

Closet floor

Office desk drawer

Storage cabinet

Husband’s closet—weekend job

Another step besides the 10-minutes of clearing from Matt Paxton is having a ‘maybe’ pile. Mine is on my dining room table and it’s been about a month since I looked at the items. I’ll donate or sell the items as I don’t feel an attachment to them anymore.

Stories to write:

There are stories that I need to sit with, ponder over, and sift through in order to write them.

I removed our reusable masks that we used through COVID out of the mudroom. These will provide a memoir thread to access the impact of the pandemic, how it still affects our family and the world, and how I’ve grown.

My childhood eyeglasses sound simple but for me they bring up painful memories. What will I write and how will I change the narrative so it no longer has control over me.

What I’ve learned so far:

Just like with my writing, this home clearing has short-term tasks that are easier and provide immediate satisfaction. Others will take longer like going through the DVD’s for date clarification, sending video cassettes and reels to be transferred to usable technology. I’ve made a list of those items so they don’t get forgotten.

I’ve learned that memories are deeper, stronger, and more valuable than things. This process has shown me that tiny steps took me further than my past attempts at leaping.

When I’m patient and kind to myself, I can get through the harder clearing. Having grace and knowing it’s a long-term process that doesn’t require perfection helps. I pat myself on the back when I let go and give myself a hug when I’m not ready.

I’m grateful to be able to share these stories and lessons with you. I hope you’ll continue with me into September.

What are you inspired to declutter and clear in your life?

Don’t wait. Start today!