Every aspect of minimalism has a huge effect on my lifestyle, but I embrace decluttering the most. Ever since I became a minimalist I have come to understand that clutter has a way of creeping into our lives and filling our minds and closets even our relationships. With time, I noticed that there is this constant weight of having too much that leaves me restless and distracted.
Personally, decluttering is far more than just cleaning out a wardrobe or rearranging a room or organising things. It's a lifestyle which I have embraced, a choice and decision of letting go of either items, habits or even relationships that no longer serve my wellbeing. As I began to intentionally practice decluttering, I noticed a sense of freedom, satisfaction and relief, I felt calmer and lighter. I began to focus on what truly matters to me, and this had a positive effect on my mind, wellbeing and mental health.
I use hold onto unused clothes, I realized it was pointless. Until I got tired and questioned myself on "Why do I keep things I don't need, things that do not add value to my life?" It was then I started my physical journey on decluttering. After sorting the clothes I gave the rest to the young children in my compound and their made me feel lighter.
 |  |
This blackberry phone has been with me for the longest time, it's a very old phone and I have held on to it because it has a memory that cannot be bought anywhere. It was a gift from my late Aunty on my birthday in 2018. Sadly, she had a terrible accident on her way back to Abuja, which led to her sudden death. I have held on to this phone not because I use it but because I felt that giving it away meant erasing her memory. I often brought it out, intending to let it go, but guilt overwhelmed me. Deep inside, I even felt my birthday celebration had somehow led to her death, and that thought haunted me the longest.
Yesterday, I finally summoned the courage to give it out. I handed it to my mum, I told her to either use it or give it to someone she deemed fit. It was hard for me to let go, but guilt was playing a fast one on me, giving it away didn’t mean I didn’t love or cherish the gift. It simply meant I don't want to remain tied to the guilt. I needed to be freed from the guilt for the sake of my mental health.
Nonetheless, decluttering did not stop at physical possessions, I started noticing habits that were emotionally draining me, committing to tasks that were uncomfortable because I didn't want to say NO so that I don't hurt anybody's feelings, scrolling endlessly on my phone especially tiktok and Facebook. Those two platforms drained the hell out of me. Letting go of these habits gave me time and clarity in return.
I also re-evaluated my relationships because some connections were uplifting and genuine while some others left me emotionally drained. It is not easy to back down from unhealthy relationships but it is more rewarding if you are able to let it go.
The positive effects of decluttering have been life changing for me, and I will tell you why…
First, I was able to gain mental clarity because a clear space whether physically or mentally can lead to a clearer mind. I don't feel weighed down by unnecessary stuff any longer nor do I feel a constant distraction. I now value quality over quantity in all things.
Secondly, I found freedom of both time and energy. Right now instead of managing clutter over and over again, I spend more of my time writing a blog post on hive, learning meaningful ideas and bonding with loved ones.
Lastly, I experience peace of mind in owning fewer possessions, in fact I experience happiness in people's happiness when I give them items I no longer need. The endless appreciation gives me peace and genuine happiness.
My advice to anyone who would like to start decluttering is that: it’s a process you can start small. Ask yourself, “Do I need this? Does this serve my wellbeing?” If your answer is yes, keep it. If your answer is no, then let it go. Like I said, it is a process and it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Just take it one step at a time, and you’ll notice the weight lifting and the benefits following.