Okay, I know I said “family to thrive,” but what I really mean is *you* to thrive.
Because when you’re happy, and fulfilled, and moving through life in a grace-centered way? Your kids benefit, too.
So here’s how minimalism actually fits in the “unbusy yourself’ life paradigm.
And it’s actually kind of sneaky, but here goes.
If you’re an introvert, then what you primarily need is quiet.
Right? I think we’re all agreed here.
Except when you throw kids into the mix, then you’ve automatically given yourself clutter and noise – the exact opposite.
Now, the clutter isn’t exactly opposite. You could spend all day organizing and editing in a quiet house.
But when you’ve got kids around? And you’re drowning in people time?
That’s when you need peace and quiet with all the kids down for nap. BUT.
Are you really going to be able to relax when you see all those toys strewn around the floor? And you have to step over them or walk *around* them to get yourself that flop time on the sofa?
Or what about your afternoon cup of coffee when the kitchen floor’s a mess, the dishes have piled up, and all the counters are sticky?
Do you feel like warming up your drink and closing your eyes to the mess then?
(I’m betting you “ugh” to yourself and get to work – which keeps your *house* clean, but starves your soul as far as quiet.)
Yes, introversion affects everything – even decluttering.
This is why you need to cultivate minimalism as soon as you get kids (if not before) – because your mom brain is so overloaded by noise and clutter, that you won’t *let* yourself take time off if your surroundings aren’t reasonably picked up.
And the best way to do *that* is to minimize them.
Oh hey, I’ve just given you the perfect excuse to declutter! “Mommy needs to be able to put her feet up in the afternoon, not tidy up the whole house after you.”
Go start that editing, and revel in the knowledge that once your outsides are purged, your insides will be a lot calmer!
Because yes, introversion affects everything – even decluttering.
So go do that purging project while your kids are awake, so that you can rest with no housework distractions as soon as they’re down.
You deserve that free time, and you’ve got this. Go declutter.
