What does simplifying and decluttering your life have to do with your altruistic intents? Clearing your physical, emotional and spiritual life could lead to extra time for yourself and for others. Go Inspire Go’s marketing volunteer, Sarah Skotvold shares her insights on how clearing her personal and professional life allows her to give back.
For my New Year’s resolution, I decided to focus on clutter clearing. The idea was to simplify my home and work life. In the beginning, I started with all of the logical first steps: halting junk mail/e-mail; throwing away old files and papers; and cleaning out my closets and drawers. I quickly realized how powerful this exercise can be in not only clearing out the physical clutter but the mental clutter that blocked my ability to see the truly important aspects to my life. I knew I wanted to help others in some way and make a difference; but I became overwhelmed with choosing a direction. My mind was filled with so many to do lists and tasks unrelated to my true goals, I found it hard to focus.
With a clear mind, I could see the truly important aspects of life. I would focus my attention on my family/friends, my health, traveling, giving back to others and writing. I have always enjoyed writing but stopped because I had filled my schedule with so many other tasks. I decided to make writing a priority in my life again.
By simplifying, I opened up time and space in my life to write. It became clear that writing could be my tool to help others, so I started focusing on writing positive stories that inspire change. Now I’m meeting two of my most important goals in life through one medium — I find that inspiring!
So what inspires you, how can you make a difference? If you do not have a clear answer, perhaps starting your own clutter clearing process will help. I truly believe that the first step in inspiring and helping others is to feel inspired within yourself. Enjoy simplifying and discovering what inspires you and then passing that gift on to others.
Cheers,
Sarah
Some fabulous resources on clutter clearing:
Free Resources
Thriving On Less by Leo Babauta
The Change Blog-How to Get More From Life by Alie Hale
Books (I recommend checking them out from your local library)
Simplify Your Life by Elaine St. James
Simplify Your Work Life by Elaine St. James
Soul Couching 28 Days to Discover Your Authentic Self by Denise Linn