As we navigate the ups and downs of life, sometimes what we really need is a fresh start. A clean slate. An opportunity to declutter, both physically and mentally. But where to begin? Well, a great place to start is by getting rid of those items that no longer serve us. These can be tangible items taking up space in our homes, or intangible items occupying space in our minds.
Here are 17 items to toss for a fresh start.
1. Unused Gym Membership
How long has it been since you last stepped into the gym? If you’ve been paying for a gym membership that you haven’t used in months, it might be time to let it go.
Not only will this free up some extra cash, but it will also remove the burden of guilt that comes with not using the membership. Instead, consider investing in some home workout equipment or taking up outdoor activities like running or hiking.
2. Old Magazines
If you have a pile of old magazines collecting dust, it’s time to toss them out.
Not only do they take up physical space, but they can also clutter your mind. Reading old news or looking at outdated fashions can keep you stuck in the past. Instead, opt for digital subscriptions or borrow magazines from the library to keep your space clean and your mind fresh.
3. Expired Makeup
Expired makeup can harbor bacteria, which can lead to skin breakouts or infections.
Check the expiration dates on your makeup products and toss out anything that’s past its prime. This not only benefits your health, but it also gives you the opportunity to declutter your makeup bag and maybe even rediscover some forgotten favorites.
4. Damaged Clothing
We all have those pieces of clothing that we keep just in case we might wear them again.
But if they’re damaged beyond repair, it’s time to let them go. Not only will this free up closet space, but it will also make getting dressed in the morning easier since you won’t have to sift through unwearable items.
5. Unfinished Projects
Do you have a knitting project you started two years ago? Or a book you started writing that you never finished?
These unfinished projects can weigh on your mind and make you feel unproductive. Consider whether you genuinely want to finish these projects. If not, it’s time to let them go and focus on projects that truly excite you.
6. Old Electronics
Old electronics can take up a lot of space and add to the clutter in your home.
Consider donating them or recycling them responsibly. Not only will this free up space in your home, but it’s also better for the environment.
7. Unhealthy Relationships
Sometimes, the things we need to let go of aren’t physical items, but relationships that no longer serve us.
If a relationship is causing you more stress than joy, it might be time to reconsider whether it’s worth keeping in your life. Remember, it’s okay to prioritize your mental health and well-being.
8. Regrets
We all make mistakes. But holding onto regrets doesn’t change the past, and it only serves to make us unhappy in the present.
Instead of dwelling on what could have been, focus on what can be. Learn from your mistakes, but then let them go and move forward.
9. Old Receipts and Bills
Unless they’re needed for tax purposes or warranties, old receipts and bills can be thrown away.
Not only will this clear up physical clutter, but it will also remove the mental clutter that comes with worrying about keeping track of all these pieces of paper.
10. Negative Beliefs
Negative beliefs about ourselves can hold us back from achieving our goals and living our best lives.
Identify any negative beliefs you have about yourself and work on changing them. You might be surprised at how much lighter you feel once you let go of these limiting beliefs.
11. Old Medications
Expired medications can be ineffective at best and dangerous at worst.
Check the expiration dates on all your medications and dispose of any that are expired. Remember to dispose of them properly to ensure they don’t end up in the wrong hands or contaminate the environment.
12. Unused Apps
Unused apps take up space on your phone and can make it harder to find the apps you do use.
Go through your apps and delete any that you haven’t used in the last month. Not only will this free up storage space on your phone, but it will also make your phone easier to navigate.
13. Stale Spices
Spices lose their flavor over time, so if you have spices that have been sitting in your cupboard for years, it’s time to toss them.
Not only will this make your food taste better, but it will also free up space in your kitchen.
14. Outdated Resumes
If your resume is outdated, it’s not going to be very helpful in your job search.
Take the time to update your resume with your most recent experiences and skills. Not only will this increase your chances of landing a job, but it will also help you reflect on your career growth.
15. Old Greeting Cards
While it’s nice to keep a few sentimental greeting cards, you don’t need to keep every single one.
Go through your collection and keep only those that truly mean something to you. The rest can be recycled, freeing up space and reducing clutter.
16. Fear
Fear can hold us back from taking risks and pursuing our dreams.
While it’s natural to feel fear, it’s important not to let it control your life. Take small steps to face your fears and gradually they will begin to lose their power over you.
17. Procrastination
Procrastination can lead to stress and prevent us from achieving our goals.
Identify the tasks you’ve been putting off and make a plan to tackle them. You’ll feel a sense of accomplishment and relief once they’re done.
In conclusion, decluttering isn’t just about getting rid of physical items. It’s also about letting go of the mental and emotional clutter that can hold us back. So take the first step in decluttering your life by getting rid of these 17 items for a fresh start.