Slowdown?

 


🐀 From Pack Rat to Progress



One Step at a Time on the Decluttering Path


Hello there, friends!


I admit I haven’t had much to share over the past few days. The work I’m doing now is slower… more tedious. I’ve entered the deeper layers of decluttering—the kind that takes time, patience, and persistence.


According to the course I’m taking, this week we’re supposed to be working on the kids’ rooms. But I chose to focus instead on our guest bedroom and finally finish off the pantry.


Both of these spaces had quietly become prime storage zones over the years, and I’ve come to an honest realization:


I might just be a bit of a pack rat. 🐀


No shame in that—awareness is the first step to change. And for some spaces, one week simply isn’t enough. I’m learning to give myself grace.





🎯 Focus on the Big Wins



Something I keep reminding myself:


If you want to feel momentum, focus on the big items.


Today I listed our beloved glider nursery chair, and it found a new home within hours. Just like that, our guest bedroom opened up again.


Tomorrow, someone is coming to pick up our air hockey table, and I already know it’s going to motivate me to continue decluttering our game room. We’re returning to our classic setup:


  • Pool table
  • Poker table
  • And everyone’s favorite: Galaga! (A nostalgic treasure for my daughter and husband.)






🛠️ Ron’s Treasures (and the Buzz They Bring)



Another fun surprise? The attention some of our items are drawing—especially the ones that aren’t even listed yet.


Turns out, my husband’s tools and equipment are creating quite a stir. While he hasn’t started decluttering his section yet, several visitors have taken notice. We’re now collecting names of folks eager to buy when he’s ready.


But that will have to wait until next year. One step at a time.





🥾 A Hiking Metaphor for the Journey



Speaking of steps, here’s a metaphor that’s guided me for years—especially during tough mountain hikes:


Don’t look at the whole staircase. Just focus on the step in front of you.


When I’d find myself facing a steep incline, I’d keep my gaze low—watching only my feet and focusing on each next step. Looking up at the summit too soon only made me feel overwhelmed and anxious.


The same applies here.

You don’t have to finish the whole house today.

Just the drawer. The corner. The single chair.

And that’s enough.





⏰ Tiny Timers, Big Momentum



Feeling stuck or overwhelmed?

Try this:


  • Set a timer for 20 minutes
  • Clean, sort, or box up during that time
  • Chances are… you’ll feel like ignoring the timer once it goes off and keep going 🥰





Wherever you are in your journey, know that progress is progress—no matter how slow or messy it feels.


Hugs,

Anke


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