The start of a new year is the classic moment when we decide to bring more order into our lives. Ever since decluttering icon Marie Kondo showed us in her book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up how joyful it can be to have a color-coordinated wardrobe, neatly organized pantry staples, and tidy drawers and cabinets, the decluttering trend has remained stronger than ever.
Especially over the past year, many of us have realized how much a well-organized home can provide a sense of comfort and security during uncertain times. It’s no surprise that sales of cleaning products in Germany reached record levels, and recycling centers saw unprecedented demand. One might assume that by now, every drawer is organized, closets are sorted, and kitchens are spotless.
But what about our minds – and our habits, both good and bad? Have we decluttered those as well? If not, now is the perfect time to bring structure into this area of life, too.
Why this matters – and how you can create more clarity in your thoughts and daily life – is what we’ll explore here.
„Does it spark joy?“
Let’s stay with Marie Kondo for a moment. Her guiding principle, “Does it spark joy?”, can easily be applied beyond physical spaces to all areas of life – including your thoughts. Start small by questioning your habits and routines. Do they truly bring you joy, or is it time to make a change and clear things out?
In your free time
Our free time is precious. Yet not all activities bring the joy they should. Ask yourself why.
Do meetups with friends feel stressful? If so, consider what’s behind it. Are you overwhelmed with work or family responsibilities, or do you simply need some time for yourself? Communicate this honestly and allow yourself to take a break.
The same applies to hobbies. If activities like pottery or painting no longer bring you joy, it’s perfectly fine to pause them.
When it comes to finances
Finances are often a source of frustration. Few people would say they truly enjoy dealing with them. But it’s not necessarily about your financial situation – it’s often about the tasks that come with it: paying bills, filing taxes, planning for the future. These tasks are easy to postpone, which only increases stress over time.
Start small: organize your bills, create a simple filing system, and sort your documents as you go. This will give you a clearer overview of your finances and help you feel more in control.
At work
We spend a large part of our lives at work – but does it still bring us joy? Some days, the answer is yes. On others, not so much. Take a moment to reflect: what’s causing the dissatisfaction? Is it the constant influx of emails and requests, or are interpersonal factors at play?
Reevaluate and reorganize where needed. Restructure your schedule, declutter your inbox, or tidy your workspace. Often, small adjustments can make daily tasks feel much easier and more manageable.
So start the new year with clarity and intention. Declutter your thoughts just as you would your home. You’ll feel mentally stronger, more focused, and more content once you’ve addressed the areas that have been weighing on you.