Winter Wind Down
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Winter Wind Down: The Ultimate Pre-Holiday Reset
As the days get shorter and the holiday buzz starts to fill the air, it’s the perfect time for a Winter Wind Down. The end of the year can feel like a whirlwind, but taking some time to prepare, declutter, and set yourself up for the hectic season ahead can make all the difference. And hey, we dove into this topic on the podcast, so if you're a fan of chatting about simplifying life, you'll want to tune in for even more tips. But for now, let’s dive into how to kick off the winter season in a way that leaves you feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy the holidays.
- Declutter Your Space—Winter Edition
We’re all familiar with the idea of spring cleaning, but have you ever thought about a winter whip-out? It’s a fantastic way to start the colder months with a fresh perspective—both physically and mentally. Winter is a time to cozy up indoors, so why not create a space that feels calm and uncluttered? I find that when I clean seasonally, I get a much clearer picture of what I actually have (and what I no longer need). For example, I can never seem to finish my Christmas shopping list because I’ll glance around my house and think, “What on earth could I possibly need?” The truth is, I don’t always know what’s actually in my drawers, closets, or shelves!
Use this time to give everything a once-over. Consider donating winter coats, scarves, gloves, or any extra warm clothes to a local thrift store or clothing drive. There's always someone who could use a cozy new coat or an extra pair of mittens, and donating helps free up space for the season ahead.
And hey, if you're feeling crafty, repurpose old clothing or fabric into something new! I’ve seen people turn old shirts into adorable blankets or even sew sweaters from fabric scraps. It’s a great way to reduce waste and get a creative boost.
- Digital Detox: Clear the Clutter on Your Phone
Let’s be honest: by the time the year wraps up, our phones are often jam-packed with a million random screenshots, photos, and apps we downloaded on a whim. The thought of going through them all can feel so overwhelming, but trust me—it’s worth it! Take some time to go through your phone and clean out the digital clutter. Delete screenshots you don’t need, remove unused apps, and organize your files. Bonus points if you turn some of your digital photos into physical memories, like custom photo books or calendars. I love turning my favorite pictures into something tangible I can enjoy all year long. It’s a great way to preserve memories, and it also gives my brain a break from holding onto all those digital files!
By the time you’re done, you’ll feel lighter and more focused, and your phone will thank you for the space. It’s amazing how this mini detox can clear your mind and open up room for more creative outlets or just a little more mental peace.
- Decor Switch-Outs: Seasonal Comfort, Without the Clutter
One of my favourite ways to embrace the winter season is by switching out my home decor for the colder months. Now, I’m not talking about doing a full-on holiday makeover (unless that’s your thing, no judgment!), but small seasonal touches can do wonders for creating a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
For example, swapping out throw pillows, blankets, or even duvet covers is an easy and cost-effective way to give your home a fresh seasonal vibe. I have a small collection of winter-themed pillows, and a few for each season, so all I have to do is rotate them. It saves me space (because I don’t need a whole closet full of pillows) and helps me avoid the clutter of a million throw pillows scattered all over the couch. Same goes for sheets and bedding—once the weather cools down, I’ll pull out my flannel sheets and a heavier duvet. And of course, I make sure everything’s clean before swapping it in!
This little seasonal switch-out not only makes your space feel more festive and seasonal, but it’s a great way to mentally prepare for the cozy months ahead without getting buried in “stuff.” Plus, it’s an easy way to declutter your home and feel like your space is organized without having to do a major overhaul.
Final Thought: Setting Yourself Up for Success
The winter season can feel like a whirlwind, but if you take a moment to declutter, detox, and shift your space to match the season, you’ll enter the holidays with a sense of calm and focus. It’s about setting yourself up for success, so you can truly enjoy the cozy moments of winter instead of getting overwhelmed by all the “stuff” piling up around you.
So go ahead, start that winter whip-out, delete those old photos, and make your space feel like the cozy winter haven it deserves to be. Your future self will thank you!