Happy first (official) day of Spring my friends! It’s a sunny 50 degree day in Boston, and it feels like winter might finally be behind us. In many ways Spring feels like mother nature’s reset button; we collectively emerge from the darkness of winter, eager for sunlight and full of renewed energy and excitement. Out with the old and in with the new, as they say.
It’s no surprise that “Spring Cleaning” is a thing, and this year after I Marie Kondo my bedroom, I will be taking the same approach with my personal life. Who’s to say that your clean up has to begin and end with just your closet? Clearing your mental closet of clutter is just as important. Here are five simple things to Spring Clean from your life this season.
one. unhealthy language
In a recent interview with Gwyneth Paltrow, Dax Shepard shared a really pertinent point about the importance of language when speaking with others. One change he has made is refusing to label Kristin (Bell) or his children by their actions. One example he used is with his daughters. Instead of telling them “you’re messy,” when they leave toys out, he says “you’re being messy right now.” To him, there is a shame infusion when you imply a temporary action as being a flaw. This difference may seem small, but this one simple change can make a huge difference in communication.
The same can be done with your own self talk. Instead of labeling or belittling yourself for a temporary action, try taking a step back first. You aren’t messy, you’re just acting messy right now. Watch how you speak to yourself and recognize if you could be kinder. You’d be surprised by how much it improves your mood and self esteem.
two. social media
It’s no secret that most of our media consumption comes through our phones via social media. News is shared and read on Instagram and Twitter, we catch up via Facebook posts and likes. With so much of our time devoted the internet, it’s important to monitor our consumption.
Devote an hour to go through all of your social media. Unfollow, block, delete, unfriend and unsubscribe to anything that isn’t raising your energy. Take advantage of the option to curate your own social media and news feed. The more good things you see and take in, the better you’ll feel.
three. your finances
One of the biggest stressors in our personal lives can be finances. As we move further into adulthood and our fiscal responsibilities become greater, it pays to have two hands on the wheel. I personally find the easiest way to declutter my finances is by using a spreadsheet. Knowing where each and every dollar is going and how much money I have “left over” at the end of the month has eased many of my financial worries.
If you’re planning on making a big purchase or have a goal to pay off your credit card debt this year, this tool can help. The letter clutter taking up space in your mind, the more room you have for what’s important.
four. clear out the pantry
Food is medicine, and what we fuel our bodies with has a direct impact on our mental and physical health. Devote an afternoon to declutter your pantry and refrigerator. Throw out any expired foods, get rid of those cookies you’ve hid on the top shelf. Start with a clean slate and stock your house with whole, nutritious options. I guarantee, if the bad stuff isn’t there you won’t reach for it!
five. clean up your personal life
Take a look at your circle of friends and family. Are there people you’ve been meaning to reconnect with? Is there someone who isn’t actively helping you grow? Are there people you hope to grow closer to? Devote time and effort into your relationships this spring.
The weight of a negative relationship can feel exceptionally heavy. The joy a positive relationship can bring is second to none. Take time to cultivate those relationships that add value and weed your garden of those who don’t.
