Tag: Routine

Systems – Break Free

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Where can you reduce clutter in your life?

Clutter can be overwhelming, from the constant buzz of social media to the accumulation of physical possessions and the mental clutter of overthinking.

Decluttering can be tough, but there are many ways to make it easier. One of my favorite methods is using life systems.

80% of my daily activities have a purpose and effectively minimize waste. I don’t overlook tasks that require attention, and everything is arranged for a smooth and functional flow. However, I live with other humans and animals, which explains why I say 80%. It’s impossible to control everything, and nothing is always as planned.

Having systems doesn’t mean you’re a robot. It means you’ve connected different tasks so they work together seamlessly. You’re automatically moved to the next thing on your list. Making small, consistent progress throughout the day makes big tasks feel less overwhelming. Plus, you can focus on your progress knowing you have a plan for each day.

So, how does a system help declutter material items? Well, if everything has a designated spot and you put things in their proper places, you’ll feel a sense of discomfort when trying to find something. And if your system is out of whack, it’ll feel like you’re drowning in clutter. But here’s the thing: organizing and staying organized can actually make a big difference for hoarders. It’s like giving them a virtual hug and saying, ‘You’ve got this! You can take control of your space and feel more at ease.’

I believe in living a minimalist lifestyle, where less is more and functionality comes first. But hey, everyone’s different, so if you enjoy collecting things or shopping, just make sure you have a place for them all!

Social media clutter can be minimized by eliminating it altogether. Most people are drawn into endless hours of scrolling through posts. While most of what we scroll through is insignificant to us, it’s easy to do so, and that’s why we do it.

When you use social media, remember to find useful content. Don’t let the ease of scrolling waste your productive time or what my kids call “brain rot” content to take over. You can either try to beat the algorithm or just let it go completely.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter, I hope this post inspires you to take action and declutter your space. If you need help getting started, don’t hesitate to reach out!

Mixing Style

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Perfecting sourdough takes practice. Even when you think you have it down to a science you may have a loaf surprise you.

Taken before heading to the oven

This loaf is from my active starter recipe and fully proofed. It is stiffer than usual and only two small tweaks are the difference.

1. A wooden spatula was used to mix instead of the stiff silicone spatula in this photo.

2. I mixed some of my starter, salt, and flour together to create a well for the water in the middle.

Typically I add the water third then the flour last. Could this small variance make such a difference??!!

Bread described in front vs bread in back mixed my typical way

This loaf is cooling so I cannot cut into it for a few hours. I am eager to cut both loaves to compare the crumb. Right off the front loaf is a perfectly round shape where the traditional mixed loaf took a looser form.

Similarly, when mixing in a stand mixer the loaf takes a stiffer form. I found there were less air pockets and the loaf was a smidge denser.

Sourdough bakers vary in how they mix so I wanted to share this for insight. What is your preferred mixing method with your loaves?

I’ll share the crumbs once ready.

Upside Down

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Today’s workout lesson… when you choose to do yoga matters. Often you are in downward dog and in other poses that have you hang your head low to relax.

Today I chose strength and cardio first which I followed by two glasses of water before moving on to yoga. Needless to say I got only halfway through before my stomach stopped me. After more than 10 minutes in downward dog, planks, and shoulder stretches with my head low I couldn’t go another minute.

Learn from my mistake. Start with yoga, choose a yoga exercise that keeps you more upright after hydrating, or break up your workouts. Don’t do your stomach wrong upside down after adding fluids.

Challenge Your New Years Mindset

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Do NOT get lost in the phrase, “New Year, New You.” I get that every year brings new opportunities, but honestly, every day does if you approach it right.

I bet you are not so terrible as a human that you need a total reset. How about we focus on, “New day, improved me.” What are you doing every day to be a better YOU?

Dig deep into your love language to understand how you should set reminders for each day

  • Word of Affirmation – sticky notes on your mirror and/or reminders that pop up on your phone. Simply say “Hey Siri or Hey Bixby or Hey Google, remind me “New Day, Improved Me. What are you doing today to be more; awesome, strong, positive, powerful, kind?”
  • Receiving Gifts – Set out a gift for yourself each day with a reminder to improve you. You only get that gift if you make progress.
  • Physical Touch – Write lists and check the boxes. Get friends or family involved to help motivate you if you are not a list person. The possibilities are endless fun with someone else rewarding your progress.
  • Quality Time – Set a goal that you do with someone else. Accountability can be greater when you have others counting on you to show up.
  • Acts of Service – If you are motivated by what others do for you then ask the closest and most accountable person in your life to remind you. Help get the things you need to be invested on your progress. If you have someone in your life that understands your love language and needs then this is a great one to keep you moving forward on your daily progress.

Share your tips on how you remind yourself daily to make progress towards the best you

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