I don't tend to set specific resolutions for the new year. Though I've realized that I do have a specific year end ritual which involves deep cleaning at home and clearing from my mind "that which has outgrown its usefulness" to make space for the new.

Simplicity. Own less, live more. These are not new ideas for me. After all I wrote this on my about page... My mantra isn't really "less is more" but rather "get rid of the stuff that isn't all that useful or enjoyable and save room only for the things that really make you happy."

But I just got this life changing book two weeks ago that took it all to a new level.

After spending the past week going through my house, every room, closet, dresser and cabinet, I have realized that there has never been a truer title to a book.

“After all, what is the point in tidying? If it’s not so that our space and the things in it can bring us happiness, then I think there is no point at all. Therefore, the best criterion for choosing what to keep and what to discard is whether keeping it will make you happy, whether it will bring you joy.

Are you happy wearing clothes that don’t give you pleasure? Do you feel joy when surrounded by piles of unread books that don’t touch your heart? Do you think that owning accessories you know you’ll never use will ever bring you happiness? The answer to these questions should be no. Now imagine yourself living in a space that contains only things that spark joy. Isn’t this the lifestyle you dream of?

Keep only those things that speak to your heart. Then take the plunge and discard all the rest.”

Happy tidying.