Home Posts tagged 'Decluttering'

Decluttering

  • Home, Lifestyle, Mental wellbeing

    From overwhelm to organised life mastery in 5 simple steps

    Already at the beginning of this year I was exhausted, overwhelmed and I felt hugely frustrated that I couldn’t just get it all together. I felt like I worked so hard but it was never enough on any level and yet I was needed everywhere at the same time! Sound familiar? Having two young kids, a business to run, a busy husband, a household to manage incl. cooking lunches and dinners and turning into a taxi driver for the afternoon hobbies…not to forget the constant unrest the global pandemic was and still is adding to the game. No wonder I thought I was about to get burned out.

    Well, struggle is part of growing. Accepting all feelings as they were and are, knowing I’m so much more than just those feelings of inadequacy slowly made everything ‘figureoutable’, as Marie Forleo so aptly calls her bestselling book and philosophy. It is a word that makes you realise nothing is impossible — it only takes some time, effort, and sometimes ingenuity, to get things done differently.

     

    “I’m a lost case. I don’t know how to organise my stuff, let alone myself”

    Nope. Let’s start with the GOOD NEWS. What if I told you it’s possible to clear the clutter and simplify your life, both on the inside as well as on the outside? Well, it is. Anyone can learn to be organised! Even as a KonMari Consultant & Life Coach I’m still figuring things out myself, so take my word for it. If I can do it, you can do it too.

    The next step is all about mindset and intention. Initialising and internalising a mindset change that you have the ability to be organised and you have the tools to overcome any obstacle or overwhelm will make a huge difference. Knowledge and the ability to change is key. When you know what to do, you’ll be a master of your own life in no time. And if you feel or get stuck, I’m just a message away. 

    1. Spring clear your home and mind

    What does it even mean to clear your home and mind? Think of it as a brain dump or download. Write down all the tasks that need to happen in your home and family on a daily and weekly basis. A rough example could look something like this:

    Daily tasks

    • make beds
    • breakfast
    • kitchen quick clean up
    • load dishwasher
    • cooking
    • work/homework
    • quality time with kids/partner
    • logistics, ie. kids, pets
    • quick tidy up
    • etc.

    Weekly tasks

    • prep for the week
    • meal plan
    • quality time with kids/partner
    • self care
    • admin
    • laundry
    • grocery shopping
    • cleaning
    • house/car/sports equipment maintenance
    • etc.

    In other words, make a clear plan of what is needed in your home and life for your life to function well and for everyone living in that home to feel happy and balanced. It means to have a rough, clear plan of when things need to be taken care of, and by whom, so they don’t pile up and become a daunting task you just want to ignore forever.

    2. Say no – design a simplified, minimal & joyful lifestyle

    Let go of unnecessary mental clutter and start prioritising YOU by setting clear boundaries. Say no to everything that doesn’t bring you closer to your real and ideal life. I used to say yes to way more than was ever healthy or sane, always trying to help and please others. Keep your energy and precious time to yourself, and don’t let so called energy thieves drain you of what belongs to you.

    And remember – say YES to everything you do want and need in order to feel good about yourself and your life! What you will gain is a life filled with peace, calm, gratitude, joy and time for the things that truly matter to you.

    3. Simplify and organise your entrance

    Our entrance is our business card to the world – and when it’s filled with visual clutter it drains our energy and increases our stress levels. It’s the first thing you (and any potential visitor) see each time you return home and each time you leave. It’s an important space that should make you feel welcome and relaxed every time. Make sure to only keep essential, frequently used items in the entrance area and that each family member has a designated drawer or area for his/her own things to keep everything manageable. And don’t forget the area around the front door – a tidy space and a seasonal flower or a wreath creates an instant mood booster.

     
    A tidy, clutter free, organised entrance area makes daily life simple and effortless. It creates a beautiful, welcoming gateway to your most
    intimate space – your home.

    HELENA ZACHARIASSEN

    4. Tidy kitchen tops & paper clutter

    The less visual clutter and appliances is out on the kitchen counters, the easier it is to keep the kitchen clean, clear and tidy. Loading the dishwasher or washing the dishes immediately after a meal is equally key to a tidy kitchen.

    What does paper have to do with kitchen organisation? Well, I’ve noticed that a lot of people have this undefined paper pile, usually on the kitchen counter. My best tip is to handle any physical mail immediately as it comes in. A lot of it can be recycled instantly. If there is something to action it can be moved to an admin folder to be dealt with weekly.

    5. Tame the daily mess in just 10 minutes

    After dinner, put on some relaxing music and engage your family to tidy up the day for 10 mins only. Anything that has been left out during the day; remote controls, toys, newspapers, home work, clothes… and return all of the items to their homes before heading to bed. It’s a game changer which will set the tone for the next day so you can all start fresh with a tidy mind in a tidy home.

     
    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home and Lifestyle Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Home, Lifestyle

    KonMari your relationship

    The moment you choose to discover and accept your most authentic self, magic happens. You will liberate yourself, peel off the inessential, and become free to fully own your life. So what does it have to do with your relationship? Well, it all starts with loving yourself. Without self love, there is no capacity to genuinely love another.

    Remember, when we were still able to travel by plane….? Put on the oxygen mask on yourself before helping others. Or, putting it in KonMari and decluttering terms: you can’t KonMari anyone else before you’ve KonMari’d yourself.

    When it comes to intimate relationships, knowing what does and does not spark joy isn’t as simple as it is for objects, but the KonMari philosophy is the same.

    MARIE KONDO

    Introspection – happiness comes from within

    Taking care of your inner world is crucial for achieving happiness. According to positive psychology researcher Sonya Lybomirsky, “happiness is the experience of joy, contentment, or positive well-being, combined with a sense that one’s life is good, meaningful, and worthwhile”. External factors also shape the way we think and feel about life, ourselves, and our partner, especially now, having lived with a global pandemic for a year.

    So what is the reason we should look deep within ourselves first before looking after our partner? It’s not uncommon that we project our feelings and see our own flaws in others, resulting in unfair criticism. Yeah, most of us have done it at some point in time. So go back, look yourself in the mirror and ask yourself if there are areas within you needing some (more) decluttering, love and care. Here’s how:

    Take care of yourself

    Spend time in nature. Exercise regularly. Eat healthy and nutritious food. Make time for yourself and spend time doing what you love, also alone. Be grateful for what you have and exercise mindfulness in a way that resonates with you. Rest and sleep enough, it makes all the difference for your mood and mindset (especially if you have kids!). A healthy body leads to a healthy mind which also reflects in your relationship.

    Detox your life from anything that doesn’t serve you

    Just like you would KonMari your clothes and any other belongings, take a look at all areas in your life with the same spark joy mentality in mind. Surround yourself and your partner only with people that support, uplift, and nourish you. Assess your home, health, relationships, purpose and work life, finances, commitments, lifestyle, consumption, fun, and values. Letting go of anything that drains you of energy, toxic even, will create more space for you and your partner to live with less stress and enjoy more tranquility and quality of life.

     

     

     

     

     

     


    Invite fresh joy into your relationship with these 4 tips

    Whether you feel like embarking on a joint decluttering journey or just wish to communicate better make sure to discuss your vision, ideal lifestyle, and common goals. Listen, learn and care about your partner’s dreams, hopes and wishes – you might be surprised at what you hear and it might just be the motivator you need to start that long due project.

    1# Prioritise by creating uninterrupted date space in your diary

    No more excuses. In other words, ruthlessly declutter your calendar from insignificant commitments that you simply don’t enjoy but feel you need to attend for various reasons. You actually need to invest time in your relationship and prioritise your partner if you want your relationship to work! Schedule a regular weekly date, whether you stay home for take away dinner or take a walk around the block. Take turns in organising something fun for each other, be creative. Try a new hobby together. Make it simple, especially now when options are limited anyway, it doesn’t need to be complicated to spend quality time together, as long as it’s without any distractions.

    #2 Declutter your bedroom

    Maybe you would be keen on more romance but your partner’s clothes are piled up all over the bedroom? The bedside tables full of visual clutter? You may not even realise how much this affects you subconsciously by increasing your stress levels. If you want your bedroom to feel calm and be an inviting place where you can rest and recharge the most powerful thing you can do for yourselves is to tidy up. Fold that laundry, clear those surfaces and wash those sheets and bedding on a regular basis. Make your bedroom your own, fresh haven of harmony and happiness.


    #3 Unplug from your tech devices

    The wasted time scrolling on social media is never coming back to you. Maybe those messages and emails can wait until tomorrow? One of the most appreciative and caring things you can do for your partner is to turn off your devices at a certain time each day (unless you’re expecting an important call/message) and be available and present in the moment.

    #4 Surprise your partner

    Do you know what your partner likes? What makes him/her tick? Surprise your partner from time to time by doing just that. Whether it’s cooking an amazing meal, hugging, kissing, wearing sexy underwear, or leaving hidden love notes for your partner to find. Whatever you do, never take your partner for granted, stay positive and grateful, always. That is truly attractive.

     This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Tidy goals 2021: 6 tips to start small and grow big

    I’ve never been a fan of new year’s resolutions. Two weeks into the new year I had usually already failed them all and the mountain of guilt grew higher. It’s a little bit like being a cat or a dog person. You either have a preference or you don’t. And it’s also totally OK not to like either! Right now social media is bursting with classes and webinars and challenges to make your life great again, and all is to start now! Covid or no Covid, I find that all this January fuzz has way too much pressure, which nobody needs more of. However, I LOVE long term intentional goal setting and making mindful plans for the new year. Allowing it to take time and implementing tiny changes at a pace to suit yourself and your family is key to sustainable success.

    Join us on the journey to tiny lifestyle changes – HAPPY & TIDIER NEW YEAR! 

    Up your home game, one tiny step at a time

    It looks like we’ll be spending a lot more time at home until we have this pandemic under control. Let’s focus on what we are able to control – OUR OWN HOME. You can choose to make small intentional changes with a big impact: Up your game (but do not try to up it to perfectionism!)

     

    #Tip 1: Start your day with an accomplishment: air the bedroom and make the bed

    This may sound too easy and self-evident, but believe me, it’s not. It has a big impact on you if you start the day with accomplishment, positivity, and intention. 

    Opening the windows, letting the day with fresh air in, thinking of (or write down) a few things you’re grateful for and eventually making the bed is the first set of activities for your morning. Your first accomplishment. Make these activities into your 5-10 min meditation in the fresh air and think mindfully about your day and what you wish to get done. Remember to be kind and talk kindly to yourself without adding pressure. And leave the phone out of sight until you’re ready for the day, physically and mentally. A tidy space leads to a tidy and calm mind.

     

    #Tip 2: Make time for true focus as well as empty time

    Multitasking is a thing of the past. I cannot emphasise this enough – it is absolutely crucial to focus on as little as possible! Being busy as parents, entrepreneurs, and/or employees and only having a limited amount of hours in the day to focus on your work, I have only one tip for you: focus on a few carefully chosen topics for each day. Your to-do list should be manageable and realistic. Depending on the day I have around 3-5 topics on my daily to-do list. Yes, only. It makes me so happy when I have managed to tick them all off. And if not, they will get on top of the list for the next day. Remember: less is more! Lastly, don’t forget to actually schedule empty time into your day. You need it to refresh your mind, getting creative, going outside, or simply for being present, for yourself or for your loved ones.

     

    #Tip 3: Empty counters and clear surfaces

    Trying to keep countertops in the kitchen and other surfaces free from stuff and clutter has made a massive difference to my family’s daily life. In the kitchen it means that you have a lot of space to spread out when you cook or bake. No large amounts of utensils or spices and oil bottles to move around. Keeping on display only the bare essentials makes the kitchen a joy to cook in as well as a breeze to clean afterwards. 
    The dining table is equally important to keep clear so there is space for the kids to do their homework or arts and craft projects. The entrance is your welcome area, try to keep it tidy at all times to welcome both yourself and visitors to your haven of harmony.
     

     

    #Tip 4: Returning things to their homes after use as quickly as possible

    Make it into a habit when coming home to return bikes, kick-boards, jackets, shoes, backpacks, hats and mittens to their homes. It is also a means of respect towards your belongings, to put them to rest after serving you well. And it also means you will always know where to find them when you need them again. Win-win.

     

    #Tip 5: Take 10 mins to tidy your home daily

    Involve each family member, put on some happy music and get going! Do this each day approximately at the same time, before or after dinner for example. At the end of the day put away recently used toys, games, work papers and school stuff where they belong. It doesn’t need to take long to maintain a certain basic tidiness of your home when you make it fun and do it together!

     

    #Tip 6: Take 5 mins at the end of the day to clear your inbox

    Less to do’s = less overwhelm. Process your emails into folders (ideally max 7) on a daily basis. The goal should be to have an empty inbox every week or even every day, if at all possible. If you’re interested to know more about digital decluttering, I’m now offering virtual coaching to free you from digital overwhelm!

    Life is all about balance. You don’t always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it’s perfectly okay, and absolutely necessary, to shut down, kick back, and do nothing.
    LORI DESCHENE

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me. 

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  • General, Lifestyle, Organising

    Decluttering your finances is decluttering your life too. An interview with Money Coach Ilana Jankowitz.

    Did you know love and respect for your money go hand in hand with love and respect for yourself and your belongings? In your daily life you might even unconsciously allow your belongings and finances to control you. Your possessions (as well as your money!) end up in all the wrong places, you do not care for them and they might get lost. You search for them for hours and then give up and go online to buy more. Sounds familiar? And potentially even get into debt for it using credit cards. It’s time to take back control of your finances and your life and start to respect and love your money and yourself more!

    There are two things you can start out with right away, and neither of these require a huge amount of time. In addition to my KonMari inspired tips below, I asked Certified Money Coach, Ilana Jankowitz, a few questions on how we can best declutter our finances and prepare for the new year. Enjoy the read!

    #Tip 1: Declutter your wallet and appreciate your money more

    Let’s start with your wallet.

    1. Is it clean, tidy and inviting, happy and inspirational? Or is it falling apart filled with old receipts, notes, a lot of small coins and business cards?

    2. Make sure you first of all choose a wallet and a material you really like!

    3. Put aside a few mins on a regular basis to declutter your wallet from unnecessary papers. If at all possible, please deny taking the receipt and ask to have it e-mailed to you if needed for the future.

    The wallet is like a king to whom you can never show too much respect.

    MARIE KONDO

    Your wallet is usually on the receiving end of any past emotional baggage intertwined in the money you keep in there. Your wallet and your money, should be treated with utmost respect and gratitude for providing you with what you need. If you care for it well, keep it tidy and respect it, you might notice that the way you use your money changes. You will feel grateful every time you reach for your wallet to remove money. And make sure to never walk around with a wallet with no money in it – when money is in use it flows like energy and flowing money attracts more money.

    #Tip 2: Using the KonMari Method to find JOY also in your finances

    Decluttering your physical belongings according to the KonMari Method categories ultimately creates space for life and increases clarity about what matters most to you. But can you do the same process with your finances? Absolutely!

    * Be very clear about your financial goals. Remember, you start with your vision also when decluttering your belongings!

    * Check your status quo, ie. bank statements and make categories within budgeting. This will help you see exactly where your money goes (living costs, medical expenses, food, education, travel, clothing, savings etc.) This step equals the “power of the pile” and is designed to shake you up a little.

    * Tidy up your do’s and get rid of the don’ts. Any small daily/weekly expense can make a big difference (a daily take away coffee for 6+ CHF equals almost 2000 CHF/year!)

    * Ask why before buying. Ask yourself whether a purchase is necessary and truly sparks joy! If you already started decluttering your belongings chances are your consumption habits have changed / will change forever.

    * If you know you have enough, you’re actually rich already

    Q: Ilana Jankowitz, you are a certified Money Coach. Would you please tell us what it is that you do?

    “I work with women to change their Money Story by understanding how our subconscious beliefs, behaviours and patterns are formed and limit us. I help them to open the flow of money into their lives and business by doing deep work. “

    Ilana Jankowitz

     

    Q: How can you declutter and change your money (hi)story, if there is emotional baggage tied to it?

    IJ: We hold onto baggage that we tolerate in our lives. Ie, old relationships, emotions, lifestyle etc. We make space in our energy by decluttering for the flow of money to come into our lives. Sometimes letting go of the past is necessary to see a different future and possibilities.

    Q: What’s the best way to get rid of debt and declutter your credit card bills, once and for all?

    IJ: Keep a money journal and write down your emotions when you are spending.  95% of our actions are driven by emotions.  Keep a budget, a budget is telling your money where to go and not wondering where it went and lastly if you have not saved money, start today.

    Q: How can you become more mindful & better at saving?

    IJ: When you receive your money, take a percentage off the top and put it into savings immediately, then pay the bills. Savings is a habit and needs to be practised.

    Q: What would you tell our readers who struggle with never having enough?

    IJ: There is more than enough, and there is a connection between Life and money. Our money beliefs are connected to our self worth. This is where I do most of the work.

    Q: What are your best tips to start 2021 and become financially independent?

    IJ: Start by keeping track of where you are spending, where you can save and declutter to get the flow of money into your life. Sell the things you don’t need and that can bring joy to someone else. Get your bank account on your phone and check it regularly.

    Interested in knowing more about Ilana’s work?
    Go check out her Money Quiz and jump on a free 30 min discovery call with her, exclusive to our readers!


    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Lifestyle, Organising

    Photo books. Organise your photos and create a gift of love.

    This year many of us might not be able to travel to see family and friends over the end of year holidays. Maybe you think this strange year’s photos are not worth showcasing? Well, they are! If you ask me I think everybody should make a photo book from time to time. Wouldn’t it be amazing to make something with your own hands and see a huge smile or tears of happiness on loved ones faces? Not only as a quick fix holiday spirit boost but for long lasting enjoyment! And no, you don’t need to be a professional photographer to do this, your own smart phone pictures are more than enough! They show authentically and genuinely you and your (family’s) journey.

    Why should you make a photo book?

    It’s one of the most thoughtful, unique and personal gift ideas you can have. And it’s made with love. I have only made a few photo books myself over the years. Then life and 2 kids happened and my photo book inspiration ended with my daughter’s first year photo book. This was almost 8 years ago. We all LOVE looking at her photo book, especially the lady herself. The feeling of holding a physical book with magical and precious moments is something completely different than just looking at pictures on a smart phone or on a computer display. This year I’ve promised myself to make a family year book. Are you ready to try it together with me? And yes, let’s break it all down into smaller parts. One task per day or per week. The choice is yours – depending on when you want the gift to be ready.


    #1 Organise and sort your digital photos into a single place

    If you’re anything like me you probably have tens of thousands of pictures in your photo archive. Don’t despair, you’re not alone and we’ll get through this together! If some of them are currently stored on different devices, the first step is to bring all your photos into one place. Smart phone pictures, camera pictures on memory cards, pictures received on email or WhatsApp…the list is endless. Move them to one single place you feel most comfortable with. This can be an external hard drive, a folder on your computer or an online cloud service. The first time you do it, it will require some time and effort but once the system is in place you will only have one place you need to back up and it will stay organised when you commit to it.

    By sorting and organising your pictures into one place you will eventually save time, energy and ultimately, receive joy.

     

     

    #2 Develop a filing system and folder structure

    The truth is, there is no ‘one size fits all’ system and structure. The filing system will reflect you as a person and photographer. Your needs are as unique as you are. Here below I’ve made a list of some easy guidelines to get you started on your filing system:

    1. Create folders by year

    2. Within the year folder, create chronological sub folders:
    months, occasions, seasons, holidays, whatever feels as a logical timeline to you.

    3. If you take pictures of different themes, make sure you have corresponding sub folders for them. Think family, food, nature, sports etc.

    4. Organise your favourites in folders also by person (ie. grandparents, siblings, friends etc.) if you know that you wish to make personalised gifts during the year.

    5. Create a separate project folder, ie. Photo Book Christmas 2020. Within this folder you can break it down into further sub folders, as needed.

    How do you NOT get overwhelmed with all the pictures being taken every month?

    As a rule of thumb to always stay organised, happy with and in control of your pictures is to make use of this action list:

    * Think twice before shooting yet another picture, it will save you lots of time later on

    * At the end of each month: go through the past month, delete duplicates , blurry ones and all others that don’t pass your joy check

    * Optional: edit pictures to be kept

    * Add all the chosen photos into the right folders at the end of each month

    Speaking with my professional organiser hat on and from experience: the key is commitment and sticking to your system, once it’s up and running.

    #3 Curate your photo collection ruthlessly and realistically

    Once you’ve started decluttering your photos every month you will soon be a total decluttering photo guru! Be ruthless as well as realistic. You cannot fit all your favourite photos into one book. Unless you’re making a book series of them! Make joy based decisions and only choose the Best of the Best, the ones you truly love the most. Here too, less is more and around 150 photos is ideal for a photo book. It will be tough to get down to this number, but it will be worth it and you will feel like a champion!

    Start copying your chosen photos into the project folder and sub folders. Make sure you only COPY the pictures into your Photo Book folder, if you make a mistake and delete something you’ll still have the originals safely in store in the original folders. Once your project is done you can delete the project folder.

    Remember to check that the resolution for your chosen pictures is good enough for printing. The recommended resolution for most photo book developers is 300 dpi (dots per inch). Even if you have photos with a lower resolution they might be ok too, but maybe just in a smaller size. Usually the photo book editing software will also tell you if your picture is of a high enough quality.

    #4 Why are you making this book? Tell Your story

    When you’re creating your photo book, think of it as telling a story, Your Story. Some of these questions might be worth considering so you know what kind of story you want to tell, to whom and in what context.

    Who is it for? Grandparents? Children? Potential clients?

    What is it about? Is it about your family, important events or about a passionate hobby?

    Where will it be seen? Does the text/images need to be larger for older eyes to see? Or is it to showcase your art pictures on a coffee table?

    Why are you making this book? Is it a personalised gift? A memory book for your kids? A book to keep on display in a public space?

    Once you’re clear on the purpose of the book, you’re ready to write your texts. If you prefer texts. Some books work perfectly well without any added clarifications. Always keep your audience in mind and think about what kind of story they’re interested in hearing.

    #5 Create your photo book

    Now when your photos are in order it’s time to get creative! Choose a photo book provider based on location, quality, personal preference, budget.. Before I have also chosen a provider in my home country when making books or calendars for relatives, it’s much more cost efficient, quicker and it’s being mailed locally. Win-win. Ifolor may not be the top of them all quality wise, but a really good and affordable option if you want a provider with many different country options to send out locally from. If you’re based in Switzerland you may want to look into this family owned local Swiss company called Bookfactory. I teamed up with them because they are offering amazing quality products (their yearbook featured below) and Bookfactory have been so kind to offer our readers, that’s YOU, a 20% discount for any photo book product with the code BFXMYHAPPYHOME (valid until 31.01.2021)!

    And finally, if you get really into creation mode, I recently stumbled upon Neveo, a service where you can create and send out a monthly photo journal to grandparents or other relatives. But that’s for the next level book makers..

    Have fun creating and gifting love!

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Create an inspiration station. Transform your home office and boost your productivity.

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    It is a fact. Working from home is here to stay for many of us. Whether we like it or not. Did you know the average person spends 2.5 days per year searching for lost items? That’s a lot of time wasted. Are you up for a challenge to change that? And transform your current home office into a space of joy, creativity and inspiration? Chances are your organisational skills will improve, your productivity will increase and you will feel inspired and energised each day you sit down to work. And that’s not so bad, is it?

    1. Declutter and tidy your desk in one go

    I’ve put together the guide below so you can create your own ideal inspiration station. There’s absolutely no need to go shopping for any additional items, just use and repurpose what you already have at home. Win-win.

    ✦ Commit and make time for you. You will thank yourself later. Depending on how many things you have on your desk and/or in your home office the amount of hours needed varies. Start fresh in the morning.

    ✦ Take a ‘before’ picture of your desk and the environment where you’re currently working.

    ✦ Remove every single item from your desk so you have a totally clean desk. Nothing on it. Clean slate.

    ✦ Vacuum it. Wipe it with a damp cloth. Give it some love.

    ✦ Joy check all your belongings before putting anything back. Remember the KonMari joy check process? Take each item in your hands, feel it, and decide if you need it for work and/or if you love (looking at) it. Make the threshold high for what you allow to be on your desk.

    ✦ Put back the essentials only. These could be your laptop, mobile phone, water bottle, notebook and pen, pending work papers etc.

    ✦ Notice how it feels when you look at your essentials. Does the sight make you feel calm? Ready to tackle the tasks for today? Happy? Inspired? Sad? Overwhelmed? Stressed? Your desk should make you feel calm, inspired, creative and happy to get to work.

    ✦ If your new desk layout doesn’t make you tick, go ahead and add/remove what you don’t like or enjoy. There is no right or wrong. Remember: this is YOUR desk. Take a ‘after’ picture and admire the work you’ve done.

    ✦ Organise, categorise and store all the rest that doesn’t make the cut to stay on your desk. Make sure to store likes with likes, preferably in containers, boxes, magazine holders, folders or baskets so you can easily find what you’re looking for. If you love labels as much as I do, go ahead and label each box and folder. You will be so happy you did – it’s a huge time saver.

    ✦ At the end of each day make sure to take 5 mins to tidy your desk and put everything back where it belongs so you can start fresh the next day again. And you need your well deserved break in the evening.

    ✦ If you don’t have a permanent work desk at home you can create a mobile office basket. Make sure you like the basket! It should contain only your essentials: your laptop and essential work papers to move around as needed. A basket can easily be stored away for the evening if the dining table is your office during the day.

    2. Create your own energy tank with items you truly love

    This step is one of the most important. You should choose a few selected, dearly important and loved items that you wish to keep on display on your desk. Items that might be sentimental, like family pictures. Items that might spark a creative flush in you, maybe a powerful quote. Items that kick your adrenalin. Or something deeply inspirational for you. Or a simple beautiful flower to calm down your senses. YOU are the master creator. Be bold, be uniquely YOU. Make sure not to overcrowd your desk – only a very few selected items are enough.

    The value of these items should not be underestimated. They are deeply powerful and will work as a source of energy for you, if you allow them to. When taking breaks during your day, make sure to look at your selected items, hold them if you wish, and just breathe a few minutes. This is an instant recharging of your batteries in no time. 

    3. What you eat and drink at your desk affect how you feel

    Choose only the good stuff. Your favourite coffee or tea, of course served in your favourite cup, and that favourite water bottle. Hydration is super important! If you need a snack, get up and take a 5 min break to get that snack and get your energies moving again. Think about if you really need to bring food to your desk? Multitasking is not particularly helpful for the brain, and those bread crumbles and sticky keyboards do not really spark joy, do they? Make your break a real break and then get back to work.

    4. Air your office as often as possible for better focus

    Do you know how much fresh air can help you focus? A lot. The more fresh air you inhale the higher the oxygen levels in your blood. The more fresh air, the more your brain can help you remember things and concentrate better. Not to mention how much more energised you will feel! Did you know that the ideal indoor temperature is around 18 degrees?! You think that’s cold? Put on your favourite comfy sweater! It’s much healthier to spend time in a fresher environment than in high artificial heat.

    What’s even better? Take a walk in nature. Even a few minutes can be helpful. And while you’re out – leave the windows open in your office!

    And speaking of windows, have you tried sleeping with your window open? I’ve slept with the window open all my life and I couldn’t have it any other way. And I come from Finland where winter nights can be pretty cold.. :)

    5. Add green plants to your space

    Human beings have a natural desire to be connected to nature. Something scientists call ‘biophilia’. It’s a fascinating science, and these are some of the top health benefits:

    1. 1. Plants can help reducing stress
    2. 2. Plants can help increasing your productivity and creativity
    3. 3. Plants can clean the air and increase the humidity level
    4. 4. Plants can help reducing sickness
    5. 5. Plants can help people feel calmer and happier

     

    Check out a list of beneficial indoor plants here. My favourite indoor plant is the Monstera Deliciosa. Which is yours?


    6. Work in short sequences

    Ever heard of working the Pomodoro way? It’s a technique that uses a timer to break down work into shorter intervals, usually 25 minutes in length, separated by short 5 min breaks. It helps your brain to focus on one thing at a time with no interruptions. If you haven’t tried it, please do. I only discovered it recently and it’s been a game changer for me. No more multitasking, that just makes you feel overwhelmed.

    7. Choose to become intentional about what you spend time on

    This is the ultimate question we as a society should ask ourselves, whether it’s work related or private. We have gone to a place where it’s ever so hard to please ourselves. We can have everything we want by pushing a few buttons on a computer, travel wherever, do whatever. We are no longer happy with the little joys in life. It has to be more, bigger, better each year. Is it even possible to go back to a state of less? I truly hope so. It all starts within ourselves and our mindset.

    What do you choose to do to live more with less?

     

    My goal is no longer to get more done, but rather to have less to do.

    Francine Jay

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home and Lifestyle Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Family, Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    The art of letting go – 4 ways to live a lighter life

    Have you noticed the gloominess in the air yet? If not straight in your own feelings and body, most certainly outside of it. Covid numbers are skyrocketing here in Switzerland. Everyone you speak to is dead tired of the virus and seems they’ve started living in some sort of limbo, like a waiting mode. A few weeks ago my body started reacting to all of this external insecurity, literally making me feel super uncomfortable in my body. I have a stress belly, and when I get stressed, I react with getting stomach issues. Pain, swelling and just pure discomfort. So what did I do to help myself? I was lucky enough to be able to take a break from it all. Since my kids were also on school holidays, it coincided with us going away for a few days to visit the beautiful southern Switzerland. I didn’t open my laptop once. I deeply reconnected with nature and started observing and copying nature’s behaviour. So what did and does nature do?

     

    Simply dropping the extra weight. Because it’s time, time to change. The gorgeous poet Rumi says it perfectly, and this simple truth is so incredibly powerful:

    BE LIKE A TREE AND LET THE DEAD LEAVES DROP.

    Rumi

    Letting the dead leaves simply fall off of you will make a massive change in how you feel overall. If you start letting go of things that no longer serve you, you will notice how much lighter you suddenly feel. Carrying all that extra weight on your shoulders and in your heart is a heavy burden. Let’s look at some helpful tools to drop that extra heaviness.


    1. Let go of any physical possessions that don’t spark joy

    If you’ve read any of my previous blogposts, you know by now that I’m a certified KonMari Consultant to my heart and soul, and I just love helping others achieving a simpler and more enjoyable life with the help of the KonMari Method. Start with your clothes, move on to books, papers, komono (miscellaneous) and finally sentimental items. Hold each item and ask yourself if it speaks to you and your heart and if it helps you achieving living your ideal life? If it does, keep it with confidence! If it doesn’t make the cut, thank it for serving you and let it go gracefully (without forgetting the environmental side: reuse, recycle, resell, donate).

    Always focus on what you want to keep, not on what you want to let go of. At the end of the journey you will be surrounded only with items you truly love and cherish, to serve the person you are (becoming) now.

    2. Live in the now – gently let go of your past

    I know, I know, it’s easier said than done to live exclusively in the now. But you can work on it! When you start letting go of your physical clutter, as described above, you will almost automatically start processing your past. This in turn helps you let go of past events, relationships and eventually lets you live and enjoy the now far more without all that luggage to carry around. You are not the person you used to be, and things or people that used to be important in your life might no longer have that position. Embrace your past for all it was. Accept your past with all its faults and mistakes. Forgive yourself for any wrongdoings and forgive who and what needs to be forgiven. Finally, let it all go. You are working on the person you want to be(come). Right here and now.

    Try my top 5 daily tools to keep yourself grounded and enjoying the now :

    1. NATURE. Just go out for as long as you can, every day, to get some fresh air and feel the sun, the wind or the rain on your cheeks.

    2. EXERCISE. Walk, run, bike, do a fitness program. Whatever it is you enjoy, keep doing it, even if it’s only 10 mins you are able to spare. A healthy habit needs repetition in order to stick.

    3. KEEPING A GRATITUDE JOURNAL OR MEDITATE. A few mins every morning or evening will do. It sets the intention and your mindset for the day to come.

    4. LAUGH. No holding back!

    5. CHOOSE TO SEE THE GOOD in (almost) everything. Actively look for the bright side with no judgment. What can you learn, what can you gain?

    3. The key to change is letting go of fear

    In order for us to reach our dreams or goals, no matter how big or small these are, we must teach our minds and hearts to not be afraid of change. Fear is the biggest force holding us back from achieving what we want. How can we do this? There are many tools out there but let’s try a few tiny, easy steps we all can do in our own way, in our own pace which may possibly result in huge leaps. Make the unthinkable thinkable and the impossible possible. Like having tea instead of coffee or vice versa

    •  * Just for today – choose to LET GO of fear.
    •  * Just for today – choose to try something NEW.
    •  * Just for today – choose to try something DIFFERENT.
    •  * Just for today – choose to SEE the world around you with different eyes.
    •  * Just for today – choose to SEE, FEEL and ACKNOWLEDGE your life differently.
    •  * Just for today – choose to be KIND in all you do. Towards yourself and others.
    • *  Today, I AM different. I have changed to be a better version of myself.

    How does change make you feel? Just by trying these out you are a WINNER.

    4. Make YOUR life your best life, letting go of all that’s no longer serving you

    We only have one life. There’s no need to fake it until you make it, you are already living it! We all get mental blocks, and sometimes they turn into physical issues, and we need these too. They’re like small lessons in life. Otherwise there is no development! And as already mentioned above oftentimes the solution is to totally let go. Let go of any possessions or relationships, self-limiting beliefs, ill working old habits, fear and old ways of doing and thinking that just no longer serve you.

    There is nothing that is a more certain sign of insanity than to do the same thing over and over and expect the results to be different.

    EINSTEIN

    You don’t need to do things the “right way”, you need to do them YOUR WAY! Isn’t that what Covid also has taught us? There are other ways of doing things, not necessarily new, but different ways. And often we sabotage ourselves by comparing us to others. There is nothing worse than comparison. Make sure you welcome only good, positive vibes and people into your life. The rest you can let go of confidently and quickly. And the truth is, YOU are uniquely YOU, nobody else can offer the world what YOU are able to.

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me. 

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Wardrobe makeover: Living joyfully in your favourite clothes every day

    Did you know that we wear 20% of our clothes 80% of the time? That’s not a lot, right? And in these strange stay-at-home and work-from-home times it’s probably even less than 20%..It’s time for a change! Are you in?

    Autumn is for me personally a time of new beginnings and rebirth. I feel it in my whole being as the weather starts to change and the leaves start to fall. Autumn is the perfect time to start something new. Challenge yourself and make way for new opportunities and change your life for the better.

    Nobody says it better than one of my favourite poets:

    Be like a tree and let the dead leaves drop.

    RUMI

    Your wardrobe might need to let its dead leaves drop too and make room for your favourites to shine. With the guide below you will be on your way towards a KonMarie‘d, simplified, curated and decluttered wardrobe that makes you joyful and smile every time you open the doors.

    1. What is your ideal lifestyle?

    Deep within I believe we all already know what brings us joy and what kind of life we want to live. We might have just buried it all under work, commitments, stress and random piles of physical clutter. Usually when we start tidying there is initially more chaos. That alone might become a shock and turn us numb. Maybe we’re having a hard time letting go, or finishing a task at hand? For all of these circumstances we need a WHY and focus on the goal!

    What should have space and presence in your home and life going forward?

    It’s crucial not to skip this step. It will help you reconnect to yourself, your values and what matters most in your life. As a consequence, when you tidy your clothes you will use these self reflection goals to help make decisions. This way you will know more clearly what kind of belongings will support you in achieving your ideal way of living. Ask yourself:

    1. Where do you currently stand?
    2. What would you like to have more of and what less of in life?
    3. What should have space and presence in your home and life going forward?

    Make a list, a visual mood board, a drawing, a mindmap…anything that helps you find YOUR unique ideal lifestyle.

    2. Gather all your clothing and make a pile


    Let’s go! Gather all your clothing in one place. All of it. Also from the entrance and the basement and wherever you keep pieces of clothing. Usually what you have currently in the laundry is stuff you wish to keep. If not, let it go with gratitude. Make a pile on the bed or somewhere where you have enough space to make a mess.

     

     

    3. If you are short on time, make sub categories

    If you can’t find the time to do the full makeover in one go you can easily break it down into smaller chunks and do a few sub categories. Examples of sub categories could be tops, bottoms, underwear and socks, sportswear, shoes etc. I would, however, recommend that you do not leave too many days in between the sub categories, as you might lose momentum and the light in the tunnel.

    4. Joy check – what does spark joy even mean?

    When going through each piece of clothing, focus on what you want to keep. Always. Your intuition and your previously assessed lifestyle goals will help you determine what sparks joy for you. Make sure to find a few absolute favourites to start with and compare other items against these. Remember, if it’s not a clear yes it’s usually a clear no.

    We should always care for and handle our belongings with respect throughout their life cycle. If they have outlived their purpose, we can respectfully let them go with a “thank you” . This might feel strange to start with but give it a try! It will feel so natural after a while. After all, this item has served you and its purpose well and is for sure worthy of some gratitude. Make sure to think sustainably and categorise discarded items for selling, donating, recycling etc. and make an effort to part with the discarded items as soon as possible.

    By involving our hearts when we tidy clothing, we can thank our items for all they do to protect our bodies and express our identity.

    MARIE KONDO

     

    5. Fold and hang, give everything a home

    By now you should have chosen all your favourites to keep. If you haven’t tried file folding yet, this is your moment to try. Not necessarily with materials that love to be hung, like thinner blouses, shirts and some nice dresses or business suits, but with most other things. Depending on your wardrobe structure, fold what can be folded and hang the rest. If you have lots of drawers, they are simply made for neat folding. The ultimate goal is to see everything you have with one glance. It saves you a lot of time and energy in the morning when you have a full overview and you’re able to choose only from belongings you simply love.

    6. Storage & final touches

    Indeed, organisational supplies are pretty – but they are never the solution! So before moving on to storing your favourite clothes, please check that you’ve ticked all the below boxes first:

    • * Finish discarding first before starting to fold
    • * Hang all sensitive items rising to the right. For a visually optimised finish they should hang from long to short, from dark to light.
    • * Find a permanent home for everything
      * Finally, add a final touch to your closet with something you love! A precious item could for example be a favourite photo, a pair of special shoes or a favourite piece of jewellery. This item will make you smile and remind you of a special event or memory each and every time you open your closet!


    7. Capsule wardrobe, minimalism or maximalism – what is the “right” way?

    First and foremost. Stop counting how many t-shirts and pairs of jeans you own and feel bad about it! That is NOT what KonMari, minimalism or a capsule wardrobe is about. What matters is what works for YOU. Maybe you need one pair of jeans for each and every day of the week due to your profession – so be it. Your wardrobe should mirror who YOU are and meet YOUR needs only. Any wardrobe styling method out there is actually there to serve you, not to make you feel guilty. However, these tools might be helpful for you to perfect your own style matching your personality.

    8. Have fun and enjoy the ride

    Life can be so serious sometimes, please make sure your tidying day is something completely different. Try things on in front of the mirror, make funny faces and take crazy pictures if you feel like it! Get a friend or partner to help you (but certainly not to judge!). You might be in for the most fun filled day in a long time. And finally – ENJOY your makeover! What you wear impacts your self-image as well as your self-esteem — make sure you choose clothes that make you feel amazing and confident!

    You are doing it for YOU!

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me. 

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  • Family, Home, Organising

    Organising and simplifying with kids: 4 tips on how to tackle artwork and paper crafts

    The simple truth is that our kids are, well, messy. They usually have the most stuff in the household, and as long as they are living under our roof it’s a never ending story of growth: in and out of clothes, shoes, toys, crafts, games, gadgets etc.. However, whenever I work with kids, I’m always positively surprised by their ability to find creative solutions, their willingness to help and share, and their natural need and feel for order. Some more, some less, but they all have it in them. You might just be in for a big surprise by how much they actually want to be involved and how eager they are to learn how to be(come) organised. All they need is a little help and guidance.

    So how can we help our kids? By teaching them these 3 simple things:

    1. reducing
    2. setting limits
    3. designating a home for all things

    The best part is that we as parents are actually able to give our kids a gift for life! The gift of teaching them how to appreciate and care for their belongings. Now and forever.

    I’ve recognised the worst 3 clutter culprits with kids, I bet you know too which ones these are…My top 3 list includes: clothing & shoes, arts and crafts, and toys. Clothing is no surprise, since kids might be going through 2 sizes in a few months, depending on age. But since I’ve gotten so many questions about what to do with the piles of artwork and paper crafts the kids are bringing home from kindergarten and school every single day or week (and some kids additionally creating more at home on a daily basis!) this is the category we will tackle now with our kids’ recent return to (art production) school.


    Decluttering alone or with kids and for how long?

    If your kids are over 5 years old I would suggest you do it together with them, if younger than that you can do it on your own (after they’re in bed!). Start with this project fresh on a free (weekend) morning, and depending on the age of your child(ren) try not to spend more than max. 15-30 mins in one go, since that’s usually how long kids can focus on decluttering. Remember that it takes a loot of energy for a tiny human to make so many decisions at once. My tips below might help you find your own unique way of dealing with your family’s artwork and paper craft mountain.

    TOP TIP! The more often you declutter this category, the quicker it goes! And I’m sorry to say, but it won’t be enough with one session per year! If you want to keep on top of the artwork and paper clutter, it has to be made into a fun habit and done on a regular basis. I try to do this with my kids  (pre-schooler and 2nd grader) every month.

    1. KonMari your artwork

    Decluttering artwork and paper crafts the KonMari way consist of three steps, as follows.

    Step 1: Gather all your artwork and paper crafts

    Like with all other KonMari tidying categories we start with gathering every single piece of artwork and paper crafts in the house and bring them to one place. A large floor space is all you need for this purpose. Before you start going through it all piece by piece, you might want to separate the artwork by year or month, depending on how much you have.

    Step 2: Does it spark joy – what does it mean to a child?

    Now comes the hard part. The only self evident thing is that you can’t keep it all! But what should you keep and what should you confidently let go of? When doing the joy check with kids ask them to hold the item close to them and feel if they like it. You might need to find some alternative ways to ask them what a certain piece of art means for them. I’ve put together a handy list of questions you can use when going through each item and find the gems truly speaking to their (and your) hearts:

    Comparison questions: 

    • * do you like this one or this one more? Why? 
    • * you seem to really like blue, is this blue drawing maybe your favourite?
    • * use the artwork the child seems to like the most as a reference when comparing with new items
    • * is this one so beautiful that you would like to give it to someone special (family, friends)?
    • * let’s hang your 5 favourites on your wall. Can you please show me which ones you like the most out of these (max 15 alternatives)?

    Fact based questions (mainly to help the adult guide the process):

    • * are there duplicates or even several of the same kind? Are they broken?
    • * does it represent an age/milestone/certain stage for your child?
    • * does it show a personal bond? Ie. pictures of your family, grand parents etc.
    • * did your child spend hours on something or only a few seconds?
    • * what does your child want you to save? 
    • * did you receive the artwork as a gift?

    Even if your child offers you every single drawing they make as a gift, it doesn’t mean you need to keep them all. Thank them for the gift, show them love and appreciation and they’re probably super happy with the attention. Keep only 5-10% of the best of the best, and keep them with joy and confidence.

    TOP TIP: Remember to choose what you want to keep, rather than choosing what to get rid off! Always keep an OUTBOX (paper recycling) handy so that your kids know where they can independently put artwork they’re ready to gratefully part with.

    Step 3: Find a home for each item

    Once you’re done with the selection process you have one more job to do – organising and storing, meaning deciding where these jewels should live going forward. You might have a shelf or a drawer where you keep favourite things until the next decluttering session. Or for the true gems you might want to look into one of the options below.

    2. Organise a pop up exhibition

    Do you have an empty wall at home or in your kids’ room(s)? Why don’t you make it into an art wall where your kids can exhibit their creations for the next month, and then exchange the art, like a rotating pop up exhibition?! Using a simple clothesline with some clothespins will do. Make sure the artwork is placed on a child friendly hight too. You can even invite your friends and family over for an opening apero. Make it fun! Perfectionism has no space or place in this.

     

    3. Make a memory box for each child

    My first and most important tip for working with kids is to create a large enough memory box for each child. This box is only for very special emotional belongings, milestones and memories from their childhood. Examples of items to keep in this box could be a completed baby book, the first shoes, a special occasion dress, their birth certificate, special photos and artwork, a special soft toy etc. You’re the designer and creator of this box.

    When it comes to artwork, why don’t you ask yourself this: did your parents save your old artwork and did you like getting this collection as an adult? If you did enjoy it, maybe your kids will too. But chances are they don’t want it and then you might as well consider the next option, a digital book. This is a topic with so many answers, and remember that there is no right or wrong – only what feels right for YOU!

    4. Create a photo book out of the most precious artwork

    This is a lovely idea, however, it requires you to keep track of which child did what and when. You can also choose to take a picture of the child(ren) together with their masterpiece so if you choose to make a photo book you don’t only have the masterpiece featured but also the child. There are also a few options specialised in kids’ artwork and memory books, you might want to check out Doodlenest or the Artkive app.

     

     

    Have you organised your children’s artwork yet?
    Let us know and comment below with your best tips!

     

    Best of luck and enjoy decluttering!

    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me.

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  • Home, Lifestyle, Organising

    Declutter your digital life now – thank yourself later!

    Before going back to work after the summer…hand on your heart: do you get exhausted even thinking about the amount of clutter in your workspace, physical and/or digital? You can’t even see your wallpaper on your desktop, your inbox is overflowing, your calendar is already packed, your phone memory is running out, you forgot your passwords, and your phone keeps beeping with notifications..you get the picture.

    Think about it: does clutter and digital stimuli increase or decrease your productivity and joy at work? Yep. Clutter might be the cause of overwhelm as well as lead to a lack of focus and loss of control. To achieve a lifestyle and work style that is purely joyful we need to tidy up also your digital space. The goal is to get you back in control over technology, which is supposed to help you instead of draining you.


    Get started with the 5 day digital declutter challenge: a step by step guide

    You choose a start date and get going with the first task. Some tasks take more time than others, just go with the flow and allow it the time it takes. Remember that you’re doing it for YOU! Each day and task gets you closer to your goal: your new digital minimalist you. Well done for taking the decision – you’re already one step further than before!

    Day 1: Digital documents and desktop

    The first step is learning to let go and say goodbye with gratitude. We already know from the KonMari MethodTM that it’s essential to joy check your belongings and only keep what speaks to your heart. We can apply the same principle to your digital files on your hard drive. In addition to following any document policy of your company and asking yourself if your document sparks joy you will of course ask yourself whether you will need the document for your work and whether it should be kept for future inspiration or reference. Delete all files you no longer need and keep all saved files logically organised in order for you to minimise search time when needing a file. Depending on your job create a minimal amount of main and sub folders and stick to them. After finishing a project, decide what documents to keep and let go of the rest. You will quickly notice how staying organised will become an addictively happy habit!

    Dear Desktop, you’re not a dump for random files. Simplicity is key – your desktop should make you smile, not cry! First, choose a wallpaper that inspires you! Keep your desktop visually tidy, and make it a useful place for your job: decide which items should be kept there, for example pending items, frequently used apps or inspirational documents or pictures. Once the pending items are done, delete them and enjoy the empty and calm space, inviting new creativity.

    Finally, don’t forget to delete the contents of your downloads folder – it might contain massive amounts of unnecessary files taking up a lot of valuable space.

    Day 2: Email: Unsubscribe from all you don’t read or need

    Any newsletters, marketing emails or mailing lists you don’t find interesting or valuable, just ruthlessly scroll down and click the Unsubscribe link. Grouping or sorting your emails by sender might also help with this. Trust me, you will love the new zen look of your inbox and you’ll never go back to the way it was.

    Day 3: Clear your inbox in one go

    We send and receive way too many emails. Emails are necessary to a certain extent but many of them are usually containing a message growing your to-do list hence creating more stress. Like with the digital documents, firstly decide on the criteria for which emails need to be kept. If you need only an attachment from an email, save it to the appropriate document folder and delete the email. Then the easiest way to get rid of emails is to group or sort them by sender. This way you get a good overview of who’s mainly taking up space in your inbox and you may also delete multiple emails from a particular sender at once or move all messages from a certain sender to a dedicated folder. Once the emails are done you may tackle the existing folders. Again, keep the amount of folders to a minimum (ideally max 10) and use the search function within a folder when looking for a certain message. You might want to consider blocks of email time each day, for example morning and end of day, to allow for full focus on more important tasks in between.

    Day 4: Smart phone apps & notifications

    We all know how addictive and distracting smart phones can be. They’re designed to increase productivity (and get us hooked!) but if we get too attached it has the opposite effect. The usage and amount of apps might easily get out of hand unless you have a strict self discipline. The fewer apps the fewer distractions you naturally have. Let’s start by cleaning up all your apps and delete all that you don’t even know what they’re for anymore. Again, make sure you align the criteria for apps to keep with your ideal work style vision. This way you’ll make space for those important apps that are needed in your profession and truly spark joy for you! Now it’s time to organise your screen. Divide your apps into simple categories and make separate folders for these categories so you can have a clear overview of your essential apps. Some people like grouping their apps by function, some even by colour, I suggest you always choose the way that works best for you!

    The final step is to go through the notifications settings on every app you use and ensure that you are receiving only the absolutely essential ones. This would most likely mean getting rid of a lot of social media notifications, but in return you will get your focus and concentration back! In addition your device’s newly extended battery life might just positively surprise you!

    Day 5: Contacts & network on social media

    LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, phone contacts etc…there are so many different platforms and we actually don’t need to be everywhere. What kind of people do you enjoy spending time with? Which connections do you really need for work? What kind of people might be able to enhance your ideal work vision and goals? Why don’t you continue your tidying journey and use the KonMari Method to go through your contacts and network in order to keep only those that are truly meaningful to you and speak to your heart. You might be surprised at how much lighter you’ll feel and how much easier it is to value and nurture these chosen relationships. Building relations that matter, choosing quality over quantity might just be the icing on the cake, freeing up more mental space for yourself and creating space for truly authentic connections. 

    Bonus task: Reduce screen time

    Yes, smart phones are addictive, but they are also a helpful tool connecting us with family and friends and staying informed about important events. The average person uses a smart phone for several hours per day. It’s no secret that a smart phone may affect your productivity, sleep and even happiness. Getting insights about how much and how often you use your devices might be helpful for your wellbeing, on many levels. Here are some tips to reduce screen time:

    • * Put your phone away when it’s not needed, ie. during meals and social gatherings
    • * Use an old school alarm clock instead of your phone and keep it out of your bedroom at night.
    • * Develop a calming evening routine a couple of hours before bed time without a screen.
    • * Develop an empowering morning routine hour without a screen.
    • * Set your screen to greyscale – it makes it less appealing (great tip for kids too!)
    • * Set an hour or two when no devices are allowed, for example no devices each day after 8 pm

    Why is it important to declutter your digital life?

    Because you’re worth peace of mind! A beautiful, fulfilled and purposeful life begins with and needs simple things. Like a tidy and contented mind. Or a happily balanced home and career. Be mindful of how you live your life and what brings you joy and calm, both at home and at work. This challenge and these tips are aimed at helping you succeed in decluttering that virtual noise so that you can become more productive, stress less and be able to focus and enjoy what matters most in your daily (work) life. Here less really is more.


    This article was first published on the expat blog My Swiss Story, where I am part of the expert editorial panel as the Home Expert. Would you like to contribute as a guest writer? Please contact me. 

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