30 Day Minimalism Game
Last week I wrote a blog introducing you to the concept of minimalism. Maybe my article has inspired you to downsize and become more minimalist, but you don’t quite know where to start. Your apprehension is quite understandable; after all, discarding many of your possessions, even if you’re not a hoarder, will be challenging and time-consuming. How about letting out your inner child and joining me in the minimalism game?
A game, you ask! How does this work? Read on to find out.
You can play this game solo, but who wants to do Solitaire when you can play Monopoly or UNO ? So, play with me for the next 30 days or find a friend, family member or co-worker to compete against.
The rules of the Minimalism game are straightforward, and you will not need a PhD to get the hang of it. All you need is willpower, some black bin bags, and time for the charity shop.
So how do you play it? The game lasts for one month, and you need some time each day. The exact amount will vary, and a couple of hours at the end of the month to wrap up. Starting on day one, you will get rid of one item; on day two, you will get rid of two things; on day three, you will get rid of three items and so on. If you manage to play daily until the end of the month, you will get rid of 465 items. Do the maths if you do not believe me.
What should I get rid of? What counts as an item? Well, you can make your own rules, but they need to be sensible. For example, don’t count out-of-date food as a discarded item or count every screw in a box. For me, a box of screws counts as one item, but several lipsticks in a drawer or box are separate in my book.
In the minimalism game, you can get rid of anything you like, books, CDs, clothing or kitchen items; the more, the better.
Every item that you decide to part with must leave your house, be they recycled, donated, or thrown in the bin; they cannot be in your home by the end of the 30 days.
The first few days will be extremely easy, everyone can find one or two things to discard, but the longer you go on, the harder it will become.
If you want to play along with me, comment below. Send your pictures of what you donate so everyone can see your progress. We are starting on the 9th of June. Whoever goes furthest shall be crowned the winner.
What to do if you fail? Do not worry. This is just a bit of fun; getting to day 10, 15 or 20 is excellent. I think you will have already parted with many items, which is a good thing in my book.
trabantbettina
Bettina Anna Trabant, Founder of Life Organised, your professional organising and decluttering service in East London. Eco-conscious minimalist and avid tea drinker,