The first step in crafting the life you want is to get rid of everything you don’t. - Joshua Becker
Our homes are bigger.
Our calendars are fuller.
Our closets are packed.
We have more than ever, yet—so many of us feel tired, distracted, unhappy and stuck.
Why? Maybe it's because we’re carrying too much and chasing the wrong things.
Clutter doesn’t just live in your junk drawer—it spills into your time, your thoughts, your relationships, your inbox, and your finances. The truth is, when everything feels urgent, nothing truly matters.
However, spring brings a natural opportunity for renewal. The longer days, the brighter light, and the increased energy can naturally help us tap into a powerful reset. Our brains are wired to respond to this season of growth—making it the perfect time to clear the clutter, not just in our homes, but in our minds and lives as well.
This is where minimalism can help. Minimalism isn’t about owning nothing. It’s about living with intention—choosing what adds value and letting go of what doesn’t. It’s not about less for the sake of less, painting your walls white, or only having three shirts—unless that’s what you want, then go for it. It’s about carrying less so you can focus more on what matters most.
And the good news? Research backs it up.
- Clutter increases cortisol (your stress hormone), making you feel overwhelmed and anxious.
- Overloaded environments reduce focus and motivation, leaving you drained.
- Constant digital input leads to mental fatigue and decision fatigue, making it harder to prioritize.
The solution isn’t extreme—it’s simple:
Clear what doesn’t matter so you can make room for what does.
This spring, let’s use the natural momentum to declutter—not just our spaces, but our time, relationships, and even our minds.
Here are five areas you can start decluttering this week:
1. Time Clutter
When your calendar is packed, your priorities disappear.
Busyness doesn’t always mean progress. Sometimes it’s just noise. When everything is urgent, nothing is truly important.
- Say no to one thing that doesn’t support your goals
- Cancel or move something that no longer fits
- Block off quiet time—real rest, not screen time
- Use a timer when you work to stay focused
Going forward: Do a Sunday time check. Ask: Does my upcoming week match what matters to me right now?
2. Relationship Clutter
Not everyone should have full access to your time or energy.
Your energy is shaped by your circle. Make sure you're not carrying people who aren’t walking beside you.
- Limit time with people who drain you
- Reach out to someone who uplifts you and fills your cup
- Mute or unfollow accounts that leave you feeling “less than”
- Practice saying, “That doesn’t work for me right now”
Going forward: After an interaction, check in with yourself: Do I feel lighter or heavier? Let your answer guide your boundaries.
3. Physical Clutter
Your space affects your brain more than you think.
Stuff creates stress. Space creates clarity. Keep only what supports the life you’re building.
- Clear one surface that’s been bugging you
- Donate a bag of things you haven’t used in a year
- Toss expired, broken, or unused items
- Tidy one drawer, shelf, or corner
Going forward: Try the “one in, one out” rule. When something new comes in, something old goes out.
4. Digital Clutter
Notifications, tabs, and endless scrolling don’t just take your time—they steal your attention.
It’s not enough to delete apps. You have to fill the space with something real—movement, books, purpose, creation. Without that, the pull of the screen always comes back.
- Unsubscribe from five emails you don’t read (hopefully not Fortitude Fridays)
- Delete apps you haven’t opened in a month
- Organize your phone’s home screen to support focus
- Turn off non-essential notifications
Going forward: Ask: What will I do with the attention I just took back? Fill that space with something better—movement, reading, connection, purpose.
5. Financial Clutter
Unwatched money quietly weighs you down—even when you ignore it.
Every dollar you spend costs more than money—it costs time, attention, energy. Peace comes from knowing where it’s going.
- Cancel one unused subscription
- Check one account—just log in and look
- Review last month’s spending—what didn’t feel worth it?
- File or toss the pile of financial papers
Going forward: Set a weekly 10-minute “money moment.” Small check-ins build long-term peace.
Bringing It Home
Minimalism isn’t about owning less for the sake of it—it’s about making space for what truly matters to you. This spring, give yourself permission to let go of what’s not helping you grow.
Create room for things that truly add value:
- Space to move, breathe, and think clearly.
- The ability to say no with confidence and yes with intention.
- The freedom to focus on what fills you up—not what drains you.
Remember: Sometimes, the space between your yes and your no is where peace lives.
This week’s challenge:
- Pick one area.
- Choose one action.
- Clear one thing.
Then, take note of what opens up—physically, mentally, and emotionally—when you create a little more space.
You’ve got this.
