Thursday, September 16, 2010

Clutter Going Out; Creativity Coming In

My Creative Space

I've finished what I'm calling the "first phase" of clearing clutter in my creative space.  I've needed more table space for months.  And more than anything, I've wanted this space to stay clear, as a way to invite my next creative project to emerge.  I walk in and see this open space and it just feels good.

Special Things in Art Space
This shelf is where I keep my very special things.  It may look cluttered to you, but I find it to be very inspiring.  Only my favorite treasures get a place here.

Yarn Cubbie
I've cleared out all materials that don't relate to art journaling and painting.  So my special fabrics, beads, wool, and felting supplies have all made their way to a small art cabinet in the basement.  I just couldn't take out my yarn, though, as I can always find time and space for knitting.

Cluttered Studio
I cleared and organized my office supplies.

Books to Clear
I went through every last book I own.  This was definitely a hard task for me as I love my books.  I kept the ones that make me smile, have a special story, were from a good friend, or bring joy and inspiration into my life.  I gave away my favorite fiction books to friends who were interested.  And I donated the rest.  Even ones that I love and have a special connection to.  If I knew that I hadn't opened it in months, then it was time for it to have a new life.  A book's purpose should not be to collect dust.  They should be experienced.


Many of you know we let go of cable this summer.  I kept a small TV in my art room where I could still get basic channels.  I hardly ever used it and it always seemed to be in the way.  I literally had to wheel it out of my closet before I could get to my art supplies.  It's now gone.  It feels great!

Files to Clear
I went through piles and piles and piles of paperwork and files.  Including the one in my office, we have two other file cabinets in the basement with old household and personal business.  This was definitely a chore and by the end of the week I filled up our recycle bin with a lot of my past.  As you can see, I still have some piles to sort through, including CD's.  Oh man...the CD's...what to do with my old CD's?  Which then reminds me of the digital clutter I have yet to attack!

All in due time.  Slow, relaxed, gentle steps...  

And now I sit in this new space... 

And I feel a shift taking place...

Your Personal Reflection:  What slow, relaxed, gentle steps can you take, starting today, to clear some clutter from your life?  Need more inspiration, check out these 5 Tips to Declutter Your Life.

Psst...be on the lookout for some announcements about Inside Out: A Creative Adventure of Self-Discovery, including another giveaway!

11 comments:

  1. I would have a hard time parting with my books. Good for you! Very inspiring.

    Tricia

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  2. Looking good.
    I like the idea of "slow, relaxed, gentle steps..."
    Maybe I would get more done. I seem to be full-on scrambling like a maniac or procrastinating and feeling overwhelmed and getting nothing done. I'm a flip-flopper!
    Your space looks great!

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  3. What a beautiful and inviting space. So much physical and mental room for creativity. Inspired by you, I am decluttering. Things are flying and I am feeling better! Thanks for providing guidance, encouragement and wisdom in this journey.
    Your new space is awesome!
    xoxo Angela

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  4. Oh my goodness! The space is completely transformed! I love what you have done with it & can't wait to see what creative energies it stirs up for you.

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  5. I love the clean space you have created. It's so inviting. I cleaned my CRS a few months back and have finally decided that I just don't like it that clean. It's small so I have to put everything away and out of site before I start a new project, which seriously inhibits my creativity. I decided just last night to take over the whole upstairs, which is currently only used by the grandbabes. They can have the CRS and I'll be able to set up individual stations for each of the crafts I love and I won't have to pack everything out of site when I want to work on something else. Then I too will have inspiration whenever I walk in the room.

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  6. Such a colorful, gorgeous room! I just wanted to share with you that I'm moving. In about a week! I forgot to fill out the Inside Out survey, but that's because I was going through the lengthy interview process (then I went on vacation) and the whole thing came together. I will be back in my hometown by October 1st. Can you even believe it? I got the prompting to move during your ecourse! It is amazing how things come together when you follow your inner guidance and I have you to thank, too. :)

    (Anyway, back to decluttering and packing!)

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  7. it looks terrific! i've started working on my 'studio' space too! although i can't clear everything out, i've making headway! and it really felt good to be rid of those piles of old paperwork!

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  8. I just joined a local knitting group and am so excited! From what I hear, keeping knitting gear neat and organized will be a task. Love your cleared space!

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  9. Thanks to each of you for your fab comments. This weekend I cleared a little more in my basement. My art room is looking wonderful and is so inviting now. I just love it. My intention this week - to slow way down...and pull out my paints. Happy week.

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  10. Holy WOW! Oh wow, Shannon! You've been so very busy and working hard. It's a LOT of work, but it certainly has paid off. Getting rid of stuff is liberating.

    I need some more liberating.

    Your desk is fantastic! I love the glass top so you can see all the inspirational supplies down below. GREAT idea!

    Looking good, pretty mama!

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  11. that space is so inspiring - i love the light and the color and open feeling! and i'm honored that my pieces made the cut ;)

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Thanks for sharing!