As an individual, minimalism is not hard to follow. But as a minimalist mom, it’s nothing less than a hassle. The difficulty comes in when you are trying to be minimalist with other family stuff. Plus, your family members, especially kids can be stubborn and might not always agree with you. You would have to ask them a million times before you could persuade them to get rid of one toy. In the end, you would end up thinking that motherhood and minimalism might not go hand in hand.
But the fact is they do. You just have to be persuasive enough, take the matter into your own hands, and make use of these 5 secret tips that will simplify your life!
Minimalism and motherhood – 5 secrets to making room for what matters
1. Never throw away stuff, rather donate it
Kids can really be stubborn when you ask them to let go of some toys they don’t play with. They might not have touched the toys in a long time yet they would refuse to let them go. They might be broken or worn, or they might be in good shape and someone else can enjoy them.
But if you tell them that it’s for someone who needs it more than you, someone who is not as privileged, someone who is alone, they might give you a go-ahead, being as kind and innocent as they are.
Just so you know, you will be teaching your kids kindness and compassion this way. They will be more giving in the future, which we do need to emphasize, is necessary.
2. Head to laundry
More laundry = more workload = stress
That’s what the laundry equation is. This is why you have to be minimalist when you are handling laundry. The key to do that is to persuade your family to own fewer clothes. The first step to that is, you can ask them to get rid of worn-out and old clothes. There would be plenty and thereby would make space.
Secondly, ask them to be a little stricter. There’s no need to keep 50 pairs of socks. And 20 sweaters. You can ask them to cut down. If they are unwilling, then you need to step in and persuade them to declutter their closet.
3. Never buy more
Your home is bound to pile up with objects if you keep on buying more. So, control your shopping instincts here. Don’t be an impulsive shopper. Only buy what you need, not what you want. The same goes for your kids. Raise them in such a way that they are not stubborn about getting more toys. Don’t comply with their stubbornness and buy them what they point at and cry for. Be adamant here. Always submitting to their wishes, might make them materialists in nature. You do not have to do that.
I learned the best way to go about this is a Want vs Need lesson. I speak more about this in my blog post, Amazing Things Minimalism can do for Kids, where I helped my kids learn the difference in the two words. It helps tremendously in helping them really think about things.
4. Be a mindful grocery shopper
When you are incorporating minimalism in your life, you have to include it in your grocery shopping as well. This is where you need it the most. We are all in the habit of stocking up everything, even the sauces that we do not ever use. Consequently, it leads to a messy kitchen and a lot of waste.
Minimalism in grocery shopping just means the same, buying only what you need. You can do so by making a list, and then picking up only those items, nothing else. You can ask the kids to do the same, make their lists and buy only those items.
I struggle with this myself as well as my husband. When Steve takes the girls to the grocery, they play a game to see how fast they can fill the cart because he doesn’t like grocery shopping. So, they come home with food I would never buy but they eat it generally.
5. Create a minimalist environment
As a parent, it can be daunting to teach your kids minimalism. You cannot just ask them to follow minimalism one day. Instead, you have to make sure you build minimalist habits in them. Be creative, challenge them, create treasure hunts and other games, make minimalism fun for them, and they’ll certainly learn.
That’s it from us. As a minimalist mom, remember you have to be consistent with your kids regarding minimalism. It’s nothing too hard, just do your best and you are sorted.
Are you a minimalist mom? Feel free to share your experiences and stories with us in the comment section.
Commonly dubbed “The Gathering Place” because it’s the most populated and most frequently visited island in Hawaii, Oahu is a fantastic destination full of culture, nature, and, of course, fabulous beaches. The island is so diverse that you lounge on the beach, drive up a mountain, explore a volcano crater, and dine in a busy city – all in the same day!
Oahu has so many worthy locations that choosing exact destinations for exploring the island is certainly not an easy task, especially if you only have a few days for your trip. If you’re a first-timer, though, the best way to go is to create an itinerary that includes a bit of everything the island offers, with these 7 destinations being non-negotiables on the list!
7 Places in Hawaii You’ve Got To Visit
1. Honolulu
Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii. And a must-visit to live the state’s metropolitan side. Located on the island of Oahu, the third-largest island in the state, Honolulu is a bustling city right by the coast that offers an amazing variety of cultural, gastronomical, arts, entertainment options.
As if that weren’t enough reason to pay the capital a visit, all of that is mixed with paradise beaches, volcano scenery, and tropical flavor, making Honolulu a metropolis that truly has it all!
2. Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is Hawaii’s most iconic historical landmark. Whether you’re a history buff or not, visiting this place is an enriching experience that will help you learn more about one of the most pivotal events in United States history. As well as give you the opportunity to honor the victims of the infamous attack on the island that led to the country’s incursion into WWII.
We took our family and the girls in November of 2020, when the islands were just starting to reopen after the Pandemic. It was probably the best time to go since there weren’t many people. But we didn’t go out on the tour of the USS Arizona because I wasn’t sure I would be able to handle that. My grandparents met as a result of the attack on Pearl Harbor. So it has a real meaning and life effect for me. It’s very sobering as well as emotional being on the site and at the memorial. I’m glad we took our girls when they would remember it, not when they were too young.
3. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is one of the world’s most visited beach destinations in the world. In fact, this 2-mile long stretch of beautiful shoreline receives roughly 5 million visitors every year!
Even if crowded tourist hotspots may not sound very appealing, dropping in for an hour or two during your stay on the island is highly recommended. Think soft white sand, clear blue waters, spectacular vistas, delicious food, exotic drinks, great shopping. And some of the best nightlife the entire island has to offer.
Moreover, make sure you visit on a Friday evening, when a firework show illuminates the night sky. It’s an experience meant to remind you you’ve made it to Hawaii!
4. Diamond Head State Monument
Diamond Head is Oahu’s most iconic natural landmark, one you can see in most of Honolulu’s postcards. A trek from the center of the volcano’s crater up to the summit is, well, almost an obligatory experience for everyone who visits the state capital.
The hike is relatively short (just under two miles), but the rapid elevation gain does make it a bit challenging. Once you get to the top, though, the views are spectacular, so the effort is well rewarded. Don’t let this deter you, though – the trail is paved the entire way and there are multiple benches and viewpoints spread along the way, making it a great hike for beginners summiting a mountain for the first time.
Fun fact: British sailors thought Diamond Head was so beautiful that climbed the volcano searching for diamonds during the 1800s. Even though they never actually found the gems, the name stayed!
5. Laniakea Beach
Commonly referred to as Turtle Beach because of the creatures that call this place their home, Laniakea Beach is a definite must when visiting Oahu.
For decades, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have loved making Laniakea their favorite hangout spot, and watching these once-endangered critters frolicking in the ocean is a truly heart-warming experience. This place will give you the chance to perceive the island’s nature in its full splendor.
Most people don’t go much further than the “turtle area”, but if you walk about 100 yards, past the rocky trail along the shoreline, you’ll find yourself in Chun’s Reef, a beautiful and secluded beach that doesn’t see many visitors.
6. Manoa Falls
Falling a striking 150 feet down into the landscape, Manoa Falls gives the impression of being a lot higher when you stand at the bottom looking up at the seemingly endless water cascading down.
The trail leading to the waterfalls is quite an experience too, so take your time and enjoy the beautiful surroundings as you hike to get to them. Seriously, there are so many huge plants and exotic dwellings by the trail path that you will feel as though you’re in the middle of a rainforest!
7. Hanauma Bay
If you’re yearning for a quiet and crowd-free location surrounded by nature, Hanauma Bay has you covered. Set a short 30-minute drive from downtown Honolulu, this unique wine glass-shaped bay will give you the impression that you’re worlds away from the city and its hustle and bustle.
Snorkeling is the main attraction in Hanauma. Hundreds of marine species swim right under the waves, including lots of Hawaiian Honus, the green sea turtles that have made their home here!
If you’re in the mood for a hike, the Koko Bay Trail to the area’s volcanic crater is the way to go, especially if you’d like to explore the verdant hills that surround the bay and, of course, catch some really spectacular views.
Are you currently plotting your Oahu itinerary? Which of these 7 places are you looking forward to visiting the most? I’d love to know all about your plans in Oahu!
Every experience can teach you a lot. Whether it is working a job, or going on a trip, there are always lessons you can learn to become better individuals and make wise life choices. Surprisingly, even in little instances, little experiences have their own significance when they can give you a lot of takeaways – both big and small.
One such little moment for me, was when I decluttered my wardrobe. I learned a lot more than just facts that decluttering is tough, and I owned a huge wardrobe.
Here are the ten lessons that will stay with me, all carrying trivial and big revelations.
10 Lessons I learned from decluttering my wardrobe
1. I have wasted a lot of money
When you are decluttering your wardrobe, there are not just one or two pieces of clothing you discard, there’s a bunch full of them – including the clothes that we bought but only wore once or twice. Now imagine how much we could have saved, had we made better purchasing decisions. Sounds relatable enough? If yes, then learn from my mistakes. Buy only those clothes that you know you would wear certainly.
2. What I thought I wanted, was what I merely needed
“I want it.”, that’s the constant thought I get whenever I find a dress captivating. There’s a desperate urge to buy clothes even when I am trying to save money. Well, I don’t know if that’s your weak spot, but it’s definitely mine.
Nonetheless, it was only after decluttering, I realized that what I thought I wanted, was just my urge. And when it comes to that, it’s not difficult to control once you realize that the world won’t collapse if your wardrobe doesn’t have that attire.
3. We can never be satisfied
I have heard from the saints, from the legends that we humans can never be satisfied. It is not some kind of epiphany but it definitely felt like it while I was decluttering. I owned so many clothes – only because I was never satisfied with what I had. Satisfaction comes from gratitude. We need to be more grateful for the things we have.
4. Less is Better
When it came to shopping fashion, I always believed having less is worse. I didn’t see the bigger picture back then. But now I do; ever since I got rid of a stack full of clothes – I don’t have less, I have more. And somehow, having less feels better. I realized it when I saw my closet emptier than before – it feels light. It’s as if a heavy load has been dropped off my chest. I also realize how much shopping was emotional for me and not in a good way. It was a coping mechanism verses an actual need of things.
5. Going with the trend and comparing is not important
Life is too short to worry about trivial things. Things like – “I have to keep up with the trend” “People might judge me if I dress shabbily.” “I want people to like me, even if that involves doing an expensive, and unaffordable wardrobe makeover”
Now that I think about it, it doesn’t matter – you don’t have to keep up with the fashion – the world won’t be affected. Moreover, you belong with the people who like you for being you – not your wardrobe.
6. We must strive to be in the present – even when picking a wardrobe
How often do you find yourself buying outfits for a future party that hasn’t been decided yet? I bet it happens all the time. But trust me, when it comes to wardrobe picking, never shop from a future perspective unless you know the event is certain to happen. Moreover, don’t shop for too many categories of clothes you know you wouldn’t wear frequently.
7. Material things only give temporary joy
This was something I already know, but it hit me only after decluttering. I remember how happy I was after buying a dress I liked. One week later, and after constant wear, it didn’t even matter.
8. “What-if” items are just a waste of space
Go back to the last time you were decluttering – you kept a few things wondering, “What if you’ll need it later?” Now, where are those things? Do you use them or are they still lying as they were back then?
I bet it’s the latter. But you’re not alone, it’s a universal story. Nonetheless, there’s no point in keeping “What-if things” because if you didn’t use it until now, you are not going to use it later – as simple as that.
9. Decluttering can significantly reduce stress
Are you finding the magic potion to manage stress? Trust me, decluttering can help a lot. It can reduce stress significantly – including the decluttering stress, the morning rush, and most importantly, I-cannot-find-the-dress-I-want-to-wear stress.
10. Decluttering is not a one-time process
You may get rid of some things, but things will be the same. I mean, over time you will buy new things and at the same time, you’ll find a lot of things that you wouldn’t need. So, decluttering is not a one-time process, it should be a regular practice that you must involve yourself in at least once a month.
Hey there, are there some lessons you learned too while decluttering? If yes, feel free to share them with us in the comment section.
You might have a good relationship with people around you – be it your family, friends, or your partner. But, what about your relationship with yourself?
Yes, it is the forgotten road. Not everyone focuses on building a healthy relationship with themselves even when it’s so very essential.
But, why is it so necessary?
Because when you have a good relationship with yourself, you have the confidence to take up any challenge, grow and take the world by the storm. Additionally, a strong relationship is essential for happiness as well. You won’t find happiness in everything that’s around you but in yourself. You have to live inside your skin, and the better relationship you have within that skin, the better off you will be with the environment and people around you.
So, think through, ask yourself, do you have a strong relationship with yourself? If not, worry not, it’s never too late. Here’s a few ways we can help build it.
7 Steps to improve your relationship with yourself
1. Spend some quality time with yourself
You might like hanging out with your friends, your partner, your family, but what about hanging out with yourself? How about spending time with yourself to find peace and understand yourself better? Well, if you haven’t done that yet, do it now.
It will help you become happier and satisfied with yourself. You won’t look for anybody else to pass your leisure time with. So, go on and do what you like to do. Spend some time with yourself, whether it is something as big as taking a solo trip, or as little as going on a solo date.
I personally like to do this at least once a week, something new that’s not a normal routine, where I go by myself to do something where I’m the only one who needs the company and entertainment. It helps me get out of my head and focus on what I want. Sometimes it’s lunch where I sit and people watch, sometimes it’s a massage, other times, it’s a walk with the dogs outside to clear my head. Do what makes you feel good and it can be as often as daily depending on your schedule.
2. Pamper your body
What would be the one thing you’d like to change about yourself? Think through.
I bet most of you thought of a zero-size figure, flawless skin, frizzy hair. If you did, it’s a sign that you do not love your body enough when you should because your body is the vessel that contains you. It is sacred, it is divine.
Having said that, you have to love and worship your body even if people don’t. People don’t matter, YOU matter. Besides, people will always demand perfection – and you don’t owe anyone to be perfect.
So, go pamper yourself with a spa session, apply a face mask, moisturize skin, eat healthily – give your body the care it deserves.
3. Stand up for yourself and your needs
You don’t have to sit silent when someone is brutal to you. You don’t have to finish an extra file if it’s past your work time. And you don’t have to do something you are not comfortable with.
In short, you have to stand up for yourself. Trust me; no one will come to your rescue except you. At the same time, the world would not recognize and acknowledge your desires if you aren’t blunt about them. As they say, “If you want something, ask for it.” So, whether it is a raise or something else – ask away without the fear of being judged.
We have all had a rough couple of years, and it’s not going to let up any time soon. The sooner you stand up for yourself and not let anyone else put their needs before yours, the better off you will be and the more respect you will have for yourself.
4. Talk to yourself
I know what you might be thinking, and to answer that – No, talking to yourself is not being insane. In fact, ditch the notion that the world has set. If talking to yourself makes you feel better and lighter, there’s no reason you should think twice before doing it.
Doing so will not only be beneficial for your mental health but also it’ll reduce your dependence on people. Now that I have mentioned it, gulp down this bitter truth as well – people cannot be available for you all the time – they have work, they have their own life. So, it’s better to be there for yourself than expecting someone to be there for you.
I talk to myself all the time, it’s quite soothing and encouraging actually. I use it when I need to calm myself down, hype myself up, encourage myself, help reduce the anxiety, shut my brain off and just listen. And so many other situations. I especially use it when I’m working out to get the extra mile or rep when I don’t feel like I can push on. It helps me in so many different ways.
5. Make journaling your friend
I talked about reducing your dependence on others for your emotional needs; journaling is how you do that.
Journaling is ideal to improve mental health because it establishes and improves the relationship you have with yourself. If you feel that you have a lot to vent, or want to feel motivated, or be praised – there’s one solution, write it all out.
And don’t do it for just this once – make journaling your habit. Add it to your lifestyle. You can do so by including journaling in your morning or night routine. Fill a few pages every day and you’ll be the most peaceful.
I find when I’m the most stressed or emotionally charged, journaling allows me to get out everything I am feeling, without judgement of anyone else, and clear my mind. I don’t have to let anyone else see it. It doesn’t need to make sense, can be run on sentences and improper grammar, but it doesn’t matter because its just a brain and emotional dump to get out everything that needs out. I always feel better after journaling.
6. Help yourself, solve your own problems
Things can get tough, you might run into problems, but you don’t have to run to others to solve them. Be there for yourself. Try to solve your problems on your own. Pretend like there’s no one you can go to.
However, if it still doesn’t work out, then feel free to seek help. The idea is not to hesitate or be egoistic to ask for help, the idea is to try to help yourself first. Kids learn this early on when they are developing and learning to crawl or walk – we put the toy or object away from them and encourage them to figure out how to get from where they are to where they want to be, and ultimately encourage them to learn a new skill. It’s not any different, and you might even learn a little resilience you didn’t know you had!
7. Believe in yourself
At the end of the day, low self-worth comes from disbelief in yourself. The reason perhaps you don’t take up a challenge might be because you don’t believe that you can win it. So, the first thing is to believe that you can.
You can do that by suppressing your limiting beliefs, recollecting your past achievements, and being optimistic. All that might change your mindset for the better. Believing in yourself applies to every day life as well, it doesn’t have to be a special occasion or a big moment, apply it to all the moments and see how much change you find in your life.
Finally,
Building a healthy relationship with yourself is neither a one-time process nor a quick one. It takes a lot of time. In fact, it would be appropriate to say it’s a journey. So be patient, and start it. Don’t be impatient to reach the destination; it’s a journey to enjoy. Know that you will continue on the self love and self worth journey with each stage in your life, until you die, so why not start sooner than later?
play with. They might not have touched the toys in a long time yet they would refuse to let them go. They might be broken or worn, or they might be in good shape and someone else can enjoy them. 
you are handling laundry. The key to do that is to persuade your family to own fewer clothes. The first step to that is, you can ask them to get rid of worn-out and old clothes. There would be plenty and thereby would make space.
grocery shopping as well. This is where you need it the most. We are all in the habit of stocking up everything, even the sauces that we do not ever use. Consequently, it leads to a messy kitchen and a lot of waste.
side. Located on the island of Oahu, the third-largest island in the state, Honolulu is a bustling city right by the coast that offers an amazing variety of cultural, gastronomical, arts, entertainment options. 
buff or not, visiting this place is an enriching experience that will help you learn more about one of the most pivotal events in United States history. As well as give you the opportunity to honor the victims of the infamous attack on the island that led to the country’s incursion into WWII. 
every year! 
Honolulu’s postcards. A trek from the center of the volcano’s crater up to the summit is, well, almost an obligatory experience for everyone who visits the state capital. 
their home, Laniakea Beach is a definite must when visiting Oahu. 
seemingly endless water cascading down. 
Honolulu, this unique wine glass-shaped bay will give you the impression that you’re worlds away from the city and its hustle and bustle.
the clothes that we bought but only wore once or twice. Now imagine how much we could have saved, had we made better purchasing decisions. Sounds relatable enough? If yes, then learn from my mistakes. Buy only those clothes that you know you would wear certainly.
want people to like me, even if that involves doing an expensive, and unaffordable wardrobe makeover”
decluttering stress, the morning rush, and most importantly, I-cannot-find-the-dress-I-want-to-wear stress.
spending time with yourself to find peace and understand yourself better? Well, if you haven’t done that yet, do it now.
don’t have to do something you are not comfortable with.
Recent Comments