When I first learned about minimalism, I thought, this is really an idea I can get behind. But then the idea of actually doing the overwhelming job of a big spring clean loomed over me for weeks. I knew it wasn’t going to be an easy task and so I didn’t know where to begin.

With my busy lifestyle, I realized I had to break the job down into manageable chunks. And it’s definitely never going to get done overnight. In fact, I soon realized that simple living wasn’t going to be a one-time job, it was going to be a way of life.

So if you’re anything like I was and not sure how to embark upon your minimalism journey, try starting with these short but fun 15 minute declutter activities.

1. Create/ find 3 boxes

Clearing out is best done with the highest level of organization. To make it easier for yourself when you come across something you realize you don’t need, have somewhere ready to put your collections.

The first box can be for donating to charity/ thrift. The second box can be for selling/ giving to friends. The third box can be for throwing away. Add more boxes if you need and make sure to put them somewhere easy to get to.

2. Create a Gift Box

One of the most wonderful things about decluttering, is that it is a great opportunity to give! Charities such as Operation Christmas Child will send a shoe box of your stuff to a child somewhere far away in a developing country. Even a pencil or a toothbrush can mean a great deal to them.

Alternatively, I like to make care packages for friends or relatives who I know will appreciate a home-made gift. Minimalism isn’t just about getting rid of stuff, but recycling what’s already there, so we don’t have to buy more.

3. Make a game out of it

Have kids that really hate tidying? Channel your inner Mary Poppins and make cleaning fun. Tell everyone, they have to find as many things to get rid of in 15 minutes. Whoever wins can choose the evening meal, or a fun family activity.

4. Clear your Desk

The benefits of a clear desk are enormous, especially if you’re like me and get easily distracted. Having a maximum of 3 items on your desk at any one time will improve your focus and lead to higher productivity.

The first thing you can do is go through all your stationary. Find out which pens don’t work and throw them out. If you have more than one eraser, or ruler, get rid of it. What else don’t you need that’s on the desk? Calendars, photos, magazines, old projects?

Try to put whatever you have left in drawers. It hides any distraction while still making your supplies instantly accessible.

5. Expired Stuff is Everywhere

You might not think it, but many products you wouldn’t expect to, actually do expire.

Some toothpastes expire in 2 years, sunscreen expires in around 3 and most herbs and spices will last only 4 years. Most people also don’t know that brown rice only lasts 6-8 months.

It shouldn’t take longer than 15 minutes to check for these while you’re waiting for a roast to cook or have some spare time in the evening.

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