How To Declutter and Redesign Your Life After Kids

Last week I wrote about life after kids, or having an empty nest and planning for that time if you aren’t already there. I have a few more things to say about that.

This is a perfect time to think about decluttering. As the kids move out, have them take the things that they really want to keep. Most of us downsize, or these days, even sell the house and move to full-time RV living. We sold our house and bought a 27 foot Airstream trailer to live in. Not a lot of room for our own stuff, let alone anything of our 5 kids! It’s a good time to start reassessing what is really important to you.

I read The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo. Her method is to go through your rooms one at a time. Touch everything, even every piece of clothing, and if it doesn’t give you joy, get rid of it. Some are much more sentimental than others, so it can be a hard choice. There are several great women I know who are really good at helping you go through the process. If you would like referrals, please email me. I’d be happy to give you some names.

It is also the time to reassess your wardrobe. Go through the closet and get rid of all those clothes you’ve been holding on to for years. You are starting a new season in life. As you start thinking about what you want to do, think about the image you want to portray. If you don’t have a clue, don’t worry! There are some amazing stylists who are ready and willing to help you rediscover your style. They help you figure out what kind of look you want to go for. Because I live in an Airstream, most of my clothes are casual and for camping. I also own a business and need to have some business casual and more formal clothes but I don’t have much closet space. I found a stylist who helped me put together a capsule wardrobe that I absolutely love! If you want referrals, email me and I will give you some names. Talk to a couple different stylists. Find one who really listens to you and fits within your budget. You want to have a connection with your stylist so she will really listen and understand what you are looking for. Or, if you don’t know, she can help guide and direct you by asking questions and having you show her images of what you like. She will even come to your house, go through your closet with you to see if you can just build a wardrobe with just one or two new pieces, or a few accessories.

You have spent your adult life doing for others and making sure they had all their needs met. Now it’s time for you to do the same thing for yourself! Have fun figuring it out! Find joy in your life and your surroundings. Make the rest of your life about pursuing your passions. It’s your time. Shine!!