Every December I go through a purging process. It’s about the new year coming, and it’s also about me turning a year older. Ideally, I get it all done before the birthday, but the ultimate goal is the 31st. The entire house must be emptied of junk, clothes that don’t fit anymore (or haven’t in a long time), broken stuff that can’t be fixed and most importantly, goals and ideas that aren’t serving anymore.
Every December I also pick a word to be the goal for the coming year. This year’s word was Honesty (I talked about that more here). Not that I’m a big liar or anything, but I just wanted to be super honest with myself on what was working for me and what wasn’t.
This year, I’ve already picked the word – Details.
Seems strange, probably, but I know deep in my bones that’s the one.
Something I’ve noticed about myself in the last year in my search for honesty is that I used to be super super organized. Like Martha Stewart organized. I also used to read all the time, and when I would take those tests to tell me if I was right-brained or left-brained, I would always score right down the middle.
I paid attention to details, I organized like a boss and I had it all under control.
Then I let myself get all creative. I started doing more art projects, and obviously web design is a pretty creative venture.
And you know what happened? I lost my organizational skills and I lost my attention to details.
It’s Just. Like. This.
The problem with this is I really really liked it when I was right in the middle. Organized with a smattering of creativity. It’s time to refocus, clear out all the nonsense and get down to business.
So, my goal for this month, and the coming year is to find that balance again. I’m starting with getting rid of all the physical stuff, the dust bunnies, the general junk, and the people that aren’t serving me any longer. (That last one sounded harsh – I’m not literally getting rid of people who don’t “serve” me – but the ones that stress me out and make my life generally unenjoyable.)
I’ve never needed to find myself – I’ve always been highly confident. I’m not looking to find anything, I’m just looking to recreate a few things…
(Apparently at about this time last year I was thinking the same thoughts, and didn’t actually make any changes – it got worse! So, I really really need your help on this one)
I find it so easy to swing from one side to the other, to find the balance is the goal and enjoy being there.
I love the word for the coming year idea…I’ve used Angel Cards in the past to come up with one but haven’t done it for a few years. Thanks…I’m gonna add that in to my New Year rituals. But clearing out the closet? Noooo…isn’t gonna happen for me until Spring.
I totally get how this can be an either or thing.. and like you love to purge.. and have been very attracted to more simplicity lately.. been a physical NEED. and also love the comfort of order but am an artist at heart.. i think a little bit of order allows a lot of creativity.. but I know i don’t have the formula down yet.. Still love the “word” and the intention..
Love to you..
I am definitely more creative and right than left. But I lack the attention to detail part as well. It’s a good challenge to take on board the life laundry and actually focus on that which is most important. Out with all the dust bunnies!!!
I love this article Amanda!! YAY! I’m with you on the clearing everything out to begin the new year…I’m making that a December goal as well; it’s mega important to create space for that which we DO want! I’m rootin’ tootin’ for you on the righ brain/left brain balance! It an be difficult to achieve, but if let it flow easily and effortlessly, it can happen!! 🙂 Thanks for this great post! 🙂
We’ve been on a bit of the purging spree here at our house brought on by several months of business creativity that meant the house took a way, way, way back seat. Sorted hats, gloves, winter gear and I don’t think we ever need to buy hats or scarves again!
I just saw that last quote on a coffee mug yesterday. And it’s so true: life is about creating yourself. I love each year, you purge what’s not serving you. It’s a great reminder. Yes, out with the dust bunnies!