What’s In Your Emotional Closet?

I was thinking back to the beginning of this pandemic when most of the world was locked down and unsure of what to do with themselves. With most of our distractions or demands on our time removed, we were brought face-to-face with our internal “stuff.” And for most of us, it was uncomfortable to say the least.

As a result, many found new distractions like online shopping and eating more comfort foods. Countless loaves of sourdough were baked, rooms were painted, and closets were organized. So much clutter was being cleared that thrift stores had to stop accepting donations because they were busting at the seams.

Then the weather turned warmer (for those of us in the northern hemisphere, anyway) and we ventured out. Nature trails were buzzing with families and dogs. People gathered — distantly — in back yards, gardens, and beaches.

Maybe this isn’t so bad after all?

Until the weather turned again, that is.

As brisk fall temperatures turn into chilly winter nights, we find ourselves back inside again. With the holiday season upon us and celebrations looking quite different this year, what will we do now?

Look out pantries and craft supplies! We’re coming for you!

Or… what if you mixed things up this time around and focused on the internal clutter that is or will be rising up again? How about those emotional closets or old belief bins?

It’s awesome to open your junk drawer and see less, well, junk. Imagine what it would feel like to kick off the new year with less clutter in your mind, body, and soul. After all, there are only so many sweaters you can donate or layers of paint you can put on a wall.

I know, I know, it’s not as much fun or as immediately gratifying, but the results are long-lasting and have a much greater impact on the overall quality of your life. When you tend to soul clutter, things like getting rid of limiting beliefs, setting some boundaries, and toning down unrealistic expectations, you open up a world of possibility.

You become empowered to make bolder moves in your life.

You trust yourself more to step outside of your comfort zone.

And you begin to finally live life on your terms.

You live by design instead of by default.

A great place to start identifying this type of clutter is to think about what you haven‘t missed as a result of the limitations the pandemic has put on your life. Then think about how to keep it away.

Whose invitations will you decline? What favor will you not fulfill? What tasks will you outsource?

On the flip side, identify what you’ve missed the most. How can you be sure to have even more of that?

Where can you set boundaries to make your wants and desires more of a priority? How can you use your time more wisely, making sure to spend it on the thoughts, things, and people who contribute to a more fulfilling life?

Before you jump on the annual resolution bandwagon, pause and take stock of what’s working in your life and what isn’t. Brainstorm a list of what stays and what goes and then figure out how to make it happen, small step by small step.

It’s time for your actions to match your intentions. After the challenging year we’ve had, you deserve to set yourself up for the best year ever!