7 Things to Stop Believing if You Want a Simpler, More Joyful Life

You want less clutter in your home. You want more joy in your days. You want a simpler life.

Instead of heading to the basement to dig through those boxes you haven't opened from your last move, consider starting a different way...by decluttering your beliefs.  It’s never too late to open your mind to new thoughts and to let go of beliefs that no longer serve you.

Here are 7 things to stop believing if you want a simpler, more joyful life.

1. That productivity means doing more, faster. -  Less is more. Trying to do it all just leads to stress and overwhelm. If you really want to simplify your life, focus on doing fewer things in better ways. Choose quality over quantity. Devote your energy to activities that align with your core values and you’ll feel more fulfilled.
2. That more apps will help you get organized. – More isn’t often the answer when simplifying your life. Apps claiming to help you simplify your life come and go every day. Unless you’re actually using them, they will just become another source of clutter. Read reviews, ask friends which ones they’ve found helpful, and give them a try. If you decide an app isn’t working, delete it to keep digital clutter from piling up.
3. That containers are the answer to organization. – Storage containers are NOT the answer to staying organized.  Declutter first, then choose versatile containers, then, most importantly, create a habit that goes with the container.  For example, a beautiful tray won’t solve your mail clutter problem unless you get into the habits of (a) dropping the mail into it as soon as it enters the house, (b) going through it often, and (c) following through on processing it using this handy guide.
4. That you need to buy things on sale just because they’re “such a good deal.”– 75% off of something you didn’t need to begin with is 100% wasted money.  Be intentional with your shopping.  Don’t just wander the clearance racks mindlessly.  Instead, spend your time doing something you “wish you had time for.”
5. That you don’t have time to do the things you really want to be doing. – If it’s something you REALLY want to be doing, put your energy into doing it.  Otherwise, stop saying you don’t have time.  Get creative and make it a priority.
6. That you’ll get back to all of your unfinished projects. – This is a big one. Answer the question, “does the thought of finishing this make me feel excited or “heavy?”  Be honest. If a project no longer brings you joy, let it go. If you choose to keep it, make a plan to commit to finishing it. If you choose to let it go, donate the related supplies to a local organization. Clear it out of your home. Close the “open tab” in your mind. And enjoy feeling “lighter” without it weighing on you.
7. That you need to say “yes” to something just because it’s free. - It’s okay to say no. No matter how big or small the tempting free item is, and regardless of whether it’s a tangible item or a digital download, it’s only going to become clutter if I don’t really need it or want it. 

Simplifying your life takes time and effort.  And sometimes that effort starts in your mind.  Releasing these beliefs will help you create the simpler, more joyful life you want!

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