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Clear out books, mobile devices, and apply the 5-item limit rule for decluttering

Savor this instalment of Weekend Preferences and foster a serene, leisurely, affectionate weekend ahead.

Clear out old books, phones, and abide by the rule of five for decluttering
Clear out old books, phones, and abide by the rule of five for decluttering

Clear out books, mobile devices, and apply the 5-item limit rule for decluttering

In today's fast-paced world, finding the motivation to establish and maintain new habits can be challenging. However, with a few strategic approaches, you can create routines that are interesting, engaging, and easier for your brain to adopt.

Start Small

Begin with a very small version of the habit, such as one push-up a day or meditating for just 5 minutes. This reduces resistance and builds momentum gradually, making it easier to stick to your new routine [1][3][4][5].

Habit Stacking

Attach the new habit to a current habit by using a formula like "After I [existing habit], I will [new habit]." For example, after brushing teeth, do your meditation or push-up [1][4][5].

Use Immediate Rewards

Celebrate small wins with a quick reward, such as a mental cheer, listening to a favorite podcast during the habit, or a small treat afterward. These rewards help reinforce the habit until intrinsic motivation develops [2][5].

Make the Habit Obvious and Attractive

Use visible cues (e.g., place running shoes by the door) and pair the habit with something enjoyable (temptation bundling) [4].

Track Progress

Logging your habit completion daily with marks, stickers, or a journal builds accountability and motivation [2][5].

Replace, Don’t Erase

Instead of cutting out an old habit abruptly, swap it with the new engaging habit to avoid feelings of deprivation [5].

By combining these methods, you create a sustainable, interesting, and engaging routine that is easier for your brain to adopt and maintain over time [1][2][4][5].

Simplifying Your Life

Moving on to decluttering, finding a good routine for photo decluttering can be challenging, even with good recommendations. However, cleaning one specific thing more frequently is recommended, without specifying what the thing is. If you're looking to simplify your wardrobe, a specific source is recommended [6].

For those considering backyard renovation options, there are various possibilities to explore. If you're interested in minimalism, embracing letting go, slowing down, and living with less may lead to more peace and ease [7].

Curated Resources

There are 30 tips and resources available for spring cleaning, and 7 ways to develop a minimalist mindset. If you're looking for music suggestions for a low-key weekend, options are available. For those interested in simplifying their phone, a quick challenge is suggested [8][9][10].

Inspiration and Motivation

Weekend Favorites can be received almost every Saturday by signing up. Today's Instagram favorite is from @thedailyrest and invites redefining success. An ode to women of color is also mentioned [11][12].

Health and Wellness

There are reports suggesting that drinking is not healthy. If you're looking to reignite your healthiest habits, there are 5 steps to help you get started [13]. The "Simplicity tip" of the day is not specified.

[1] James Clear, "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones," Penguin Random House, 2018. [2] Charles Duhigg, "The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business," Random House, 2012. [3] B.J. Fogg, "Tiny Habits: The Small Changes That Change Everything," Penguin Random House, 2020. [4] Leo Babauta, "The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential—in Business and in Life," Hyperion, 2009. [5] Gretchen Rubin, "Better Than Before: What I Learned About Making and Breaking Habits—to Sleep More, Quit Sugar, Procrastinate Less, and Generally Build a Happier Life," HarperCollins, 2015. [6] The Minimalists, "The Minimalist Wardrobe: A Guide to Building a Simple and Timeless Wardrobe," HarperOne, 2016. [7] Joshua Becker, "The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own," Thomas Nelson, 2012. [8] Marie Kondo, "Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up," Ten Speed Press, 2016. [9] Courtney Carver, "Project 333: The Minimalist Fashion Challenge That Will Change Your Life," New World Library, 2014. [10] Cal Newport, "Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World," Portfolio, 2019. [11] @thedailyrest, Instagram account. [12] "Ode to Women of Color," a poem by Warsan Shire. [13] Dr. Mark Hyman, "The Blood Sugar Solution 10-Day Detox Diet: Activate Your Body's Natural Ability to Burn Fat and Lose Up to 15 Pounds in Just 10 Days!," Little, Brown and Company, 2014.

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