Clutter is the sneaky villain in my life story. It’s not just the piles of laundry mocking me from my resting chair—it’s the mental chaos, overloaded schedule, always complaining and negative friend and 72,000 unread emails. My goal in 2025 is to reduce clutter to improve my physical and mental health. So I snapped and declared war on it all. Even though it was overwhelming to think about, I started with a list.
1. The House of Chaos
My closet is like Narnia, but instead of magic, it is full of old pants, dresses, shoes and coats. The kitchen pantry has so many items that I probably will not use. I need to purge ruthlessly: clothes I don’t wear, expired pantry items, and random cords no one can identify.
2. My Jam Packed Work Schedule
I used to just accept tasks and meetings to help others. Now? I politely decline anything that causes me to have to pause my tasks. I guard my downtime like it’s the crown jewels and speak up when my plate is full. I’m done being overworked.
3. Digital Clutter
I must tackle my phone and email. Unsubscribe and report spam, delete unused apps, delete incomplete and nonsense notes and stop hoarding 40 versions of the same photo. My digital life needs serious decluttering.
4. My Overloaded Brain
Journaling and writing are my lifesavers for mental clutter. I also meditate. But multitasking? Officially fired.
5. Toxic Relationships
Some people are considered clutter too. If they drain my energy more than they uplift me, I set boundaries or let go. Quality > quantity, every time.
Decluttering isn’t just about stuff—it’s about making room for joy, peace, and sanity. And I’m all about that I’m 2025!
Here are a few ways I define a family member. Please note, this may not be everyone’s actual reality:
A loving and supportive individual: They may be a parent, sibling, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or cousin who provides care, guidance, and encouragement. In today’s society, this individual may be someone not related by blood.
A source of cultural heritage: They may share stories, traditions, and values that connect you to your ancestry.
A role model: They may inspire you with their achievements, resilience, and positive impact on the community.
A confidant: They may be someone you can trust with your secrets, dreams, and fears.
A unique person: They have their own interests, hobbies, and personality traits, just like anyone else.
Family isn’t always defined by bloodlines. It’s the bond of love, respect, and unwavering support that truly defines a familymember. This loving and supportive person, often referred to as an “chosen family,” can be anyone who steps into your life and fills the role of a parent, sibling, grandparent, or close friend. It could even be the wise neighbor who offers words of wisdom and a comforting ear. The trainer who pushes you to excel, both in and out of the gym. Or, it could be the mentor who guides your career path and inspires you to reach for the stars. These individuals, though not related by birth, become an integral part of our lives. They share our joys, sorrows, and dreams. They offer a shoulder to lean on, a helping hand, and a heart full of love. They are the ones who celebrate our successes and encourage us to persevere through challenges. In a world that can often feel isolating, these chosen familymembers remind us that we are never truly alone. They create a sense of belonging and provide a safe space where we can be ourselves, without judgment.
Cultural heritage can be shared in countless ways. It’s the stories, traditions, and values passed down through generations that connect us. These stories can be as simple as a recipe handed down from a grandparent, or as complex as a historical narrative that shapes our identity. Cultural heritage can also be expressed through music, art, and dance. These forms of expression often carry the weight of history and tradition, connecting us and inspiring future generations.
A role model is a beacon of light, guiding us towards our full potential. They inspire us with their achievements, resilience, and positive impact on the community. They are the ones who show us that with hard work, determination, and a bit of courage, we can overcome any obstacle. These role models are more than just family members; they are symbols of hope, resilience, and the power of human spirit. They remind us that we are capable of great things and that our actions can have a ripple effect on the world around us. By following their example, we can become the best versions of ourselves and leave a lasting legacy.
A confidant is a safe harbor in the stormy seas of life. They are the ones we can trust with our deepest secrets, our wildest dreams, and our darkest fears. They offer a listening ear, a comforting presence, and unwavering support. This is the best friend who knows us inside and out, who can finish our sentences and understand our unspoken thoughts. Or the mentor who challenges us to grow and pushes us beyond our comfort zones. It could even be the therapist who provides a neutral space for us to explore our emotions and work through our challenges. These confidants are the ones who truly see us, who accept us for who we are, and who love us unconditionally. They are the ones who help us to heal, to grow, and to become the best versions of ourselves. With their support, we can face any challenge and overcome any obstacle.
A unique person is a masterpiece, a one-of-a-kind creation with their own unique blend of interests, hobbies, and personality traits. They are the ones who color outside the lines, who think differently, and who dare to dream. These unique individuals enrich our lives in countless ways. They challenge us to think critically, to embrace our individuality, and to appreciate the beauty of diversity. By celebrating their quirks, passions, and talents, we create a more vibrant and inclusive world.
What would you do if you lost all your possessions?
If I were to lose all my possessions, I would still find joy in the simple fact that I’m alive and breathing. This realization reminds me that I have the power to rebuild and create anew. Material belongings have little significance in my life; the true treasures are the lives of my children—both my human and furry ones. They are my highest priority and what brings me the most fulfillment.
Possessions can always be replaced, but the love and connection I share with my family are irreplaceable. With unwavering faith in God, I believe that nothing is ever truly lost; He provides us with exactly what we need when we need it. In that faith, I find comfort and strength, knowing that my true wealth lies not in what I own but in the love and relationships that enrich my life.
In My Unapologetic Life... 