[tidy] joy.
It feels a bit like spring today (at least where I live - it was nearly 60 degrees). That may have contributed to my thoughts about simple ideas that may spur on a bit of early spring cleaning, or at least a little less cluttered angst.
There is joy in having great systems and less “extra” - sometimes that means literal things and often it’s simply too much noise or items in your calender or to do list. Either way, it’s clutter that is hindering you from living the life you love to live in
Pick one area of your life that you can automate right now - create a system or update the existing system to make it easier on your brain.
I recently did this with my packing. We are spending lots of nights at the hospital with our son and I find myself packing a bag (or two) each week for myself as I swap out my husband. I am actually a pro at a “weekend bag”, but doing it each week or more was becoming a bit much. I decided to make all things as grab and go as possible and update some of items to make it easier and more comfortable.
We cannot always change our circumstances, but we can take action on what is within our power to foster joy.
Here are some of my updates (these are not affiliate links…just some of my favs that may become some of your favs):
- Moisturizer containers (I can fit several days worth of face cleanser and my day and night moisturizers in them) - I can’t say enough good things about these. They’re a little spendy, but amazing!!
- Packed toiletries bag - I invested in minis of all my favorite products and have my bag ready to go when I am.
- New weekender bag - the selling point for me was the slot for my laptop and a shoe compartment (which is great for more than just shoes). It does get a bit heavy when I have it full, but it’s still better than two separate bags for my stuff and my laptop.
- Cozy new sweat pants - I thought these might feel just like any other sweats, but they are simply my new favorites for when I don’t need to look polished.
- Day One app - this isn’t something that goes in my bag, but writing my thoughts helps me process and also gives me space to reflect and look back at how I’ve learned and grown. I love that you can search past entries and that is also has a talk to text function. I’ve used this for many years and love it.
- Hardcover journal book - there is something visceral that happens for me when I can put a great pen to paper. I use the bullet journal method in mine and love it! It is used everyday and helps me stay focused on what is most important to me and what can wait until another time.
Maybe one of these will be appealing to you or inspire you to update one of these systems in your life.
I’ll leave you with one last thought I heard this week and loved - most people want to change the world, but don’t want to help mom do the dishes. Start small and it will change her world. Small and simple things have great impact.
With joy,
jamie
