10 Minimalist Rules That Changed My Life

Step-by-Step Minimalist Rules Tutorial:

1. The Poop Rule:

   • This rule challenges you to ask yourself if you care enough about an item to clean poop off of it.
   • Consider this question before deciding to keep or let go of an item.

2. The OneTouch Rule:

   • Deal with items immediately instead of postponing.
   • Implement this rule by putting things away as soon as you finish using them.

3. The Iceberg Rule:

   • Understand that physical clutter is just the tip of the iceberg.
   • Address internal clutter like limiting beliefs, procrastination, and past traumas.
   • Consider seeking therapy to work through internal clutter effectively.

4. The Rule of Equivalent Exchange:

   • Realize that everything you own comes at a cost, whether it's financial, time, or mental health.
   • Evaluate the value items bring to your life before acquiring or keeping them.

5. The Ben Franklin Rule:

   • Ensure everything in your home has a designated place.
   • Encourage family members to follow this rule to maintain a clutter-free environment.

6. The 30-Day Rule:

   • Introduce a waiting period before making impulse purchases.
   • Evaluate the necessity and value of an item after the waiting period to reduce clutter and save money.

7. The Use It or Lose It Rule:

   • Only keep items that serve a purpose, add value, or hold sentimental significance.
   • If items do not meet these criteria, consider donating, selling, or discarding them.

8. The One In One Out Rule:

   • Maintain a balance between incoming and outgoing items in your home.
   • For every new item brought in, consider letting go of an old item to prevent clutter accumulation.

9. Adapt the Rule to Fit Your Needs:

   • Customize the One In One Out Rule based on your decluttering goals and lifestyle.
   • Adjust the ratio of items going out to items coming in to suit your current situation.

10. The 5-Minute Rule:

    • Overcome procrastination by committing to decluttering for just 5 minutes.
    • Set a timer and start the task, often finding motivation to continue once you begin.

By following these minimalist rules, you can simplify your home, declutter effectively, and create a more organized and intentional living space.