Are you getting ready to move to a smaller apartment? Are you worried about having too much stuff that might not fit into your new space? There are a few things to consider before taking the first steps to living minimalist lives. You don’t have to complicate it. With some careful planning and the ability to say no you can de-clutter your space and set up your new home in one go.
1. One Room at a Time
When going for a minimalist lifestyle it’s important to start small. Downsizing can be overwhelming. So we recommend focusing on one room at a time. This will allow you to select a few things from each space and get rid of the rest. While getting rid of unwanted items, come up with a theme that you may want your new apartment to have. This will give you a cohesive perspective as you go on to the next space.
2. Get Rid of Extra Furniture
Moving is a great time to get rid of that ugly old couch you’ve hated for years. Minimalist spaces thrive on limited furniture and no clutter. When cleaning your spaces in preparation for moving, donate or curb the furniture you no longer like. This allows you to let go of your cluttered past and it may allow someone else a chance at updating their own space!
Minimal spaces can be comfortable, even without a bunch of chairs. Pick and choose the pieces you think will work best with your overall look for your new space.
3. Clean Floors and Clear Walls
Furniture isn’t the only thing in a home that causes clutter. Sometimes walls overloaded with artwork and pictures can help drag a space down. The same goes for floors. If you’re going for a minimalist look, consider abandoning side tables and extra entertainment units.
Any flat surfaces should be clutter free too of course. For walls, consider one or two pieces that can catch the eye but not be overwhelming for the rest of the space.
Minimalism requires a certain level of self-awareness. Make sure each piece you decide to bring to your new apartment with you reflects who you are. This will help you weed out the extras you no longer need.
4. Learn to Say No
Learning to say no is a great lifestyle choice. It can also help you lessen some of the clutter that may threaten your new minimalist apartment. Say no to free samples. Say no to hand-me-downs. Saying no may make you feel guilty for a while but in the long run, it’s a good way to keep your space from getting bogged down with clutter.
5. Remember: Only the Essentials
When moving and downsizing it’s important to remember to bring only the essentials. If you have doubles of anything, get rid of those extra things you may not need. It’s always a good idea to purge your closet every few months. Donating or selling unwanted items can help your community as well as your state of mind.
Don’t be afraid to let go of some things when you’re moving. Your new space will be all the better for it in the end.
Living Minimalist in Your New Apartment
Embracing a minimalist lifestyle can seem overwhelming at first. But learning to let go of the items you no longer want or need can make your new space a home.
