before:
after:
what i did:
- removed every book that i have not/will not use
- removed wall hangings (notes/record albums/college degrees)
- removed all paper clutter from desktop (stored in my top drawer)
- removed all office equipment from desktop (stapler/tape)
- removed noncurrent clutter from bulletin board
- removed misc clutter from bookshelves (souvenirs/sports memorabilia)
- painted
results:
- able to focus / less distraction (my mind matches my activity)
- a vision for the future (no longer tied to the past)
- more energy (clutter is so mentally draining)
- endless possibilities…
Keeping the lava lamp made me laugh! I like the new look. I agree with the comment about artwork. The right piece can be helpful. Oh, and always keep the family photos. We update my husband’s frames regularly. He’s a pastor, too. I’ll show him your before and after photos. Hopefully, he’ll be inspired to get on the minimalist ride. His desk is almost always a disaster.
Wow. I noticed how I felt with both pictures. The burgundy is a beautiful color. The office felt cozy, yet stressful, like I don’t want to stay long. The new color, and having so much less stuff leaves the office feeling peaceful, like I would want to spend time there. I didn’t expect to like the color so much. I know a lighter color adds to the visual dimension of space, but combined with a clear desk, the difference is striking. It feels almost like you actually have time for the person coming to visit. That last statement just stunned me. I’ll write that down as a motivator for my new minimalist journey.