Clearing the Clutter & Living with Purpose
It’s an Ongoing Journey Toward Simplicity and Peace
Once you declutter your life, it’s easy to think you’re done — but clutter has a sneaky way of returning. Over time, I’ve realized that decluttering isn’t a one-time task; it’s a mindset, a way of living.
In this post, I’ll share how my Project 100 Challenge or simplification techniques has helped me embrace simplicity, stay intentional, and focus on what truly matters.
Finding New Ways to Reduce the “Stuff” in My Life
As I’ve grown older, my relationship with “stuff” has changed. I used to enjoy collecting things — Jeep gear, home décor, souvenirs — but now, possessions feel heavy instead of joyful.
Several years ago, I began a personal journey of transformation. My children were growing up, and as their needs changed, I found myself facing an unfamiliar emptiness. I started searching for purpose — and what I found along the way was freedom in simplicity.
This journey led me to share my experiences and the tools that helped me feel lighter, freer, and more centered.
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| Jeep Momma Selfie at Rausch Creek |
A Journey of Simplicity and Purpose
Rediscovering myself through this process has been transformative. I’ve regained confidence, rekindled passions I had forgotten, and found an inner peace t found peace by inviting God back into my life.
This spiritual grounding helped me recognize what truly matters — relationships, experiences, and gratitude — not material possessions.
Yet even now, I have to remind myself: clutter creeps back in. That’s why I continue to practice decluttering through challenges like Project 100, which helps me focus on creating space for joy instead of things.
Embracing a Simpler Life
This path toward simplicity has completely reshaped how I live and even how I celebrate traditions.
For example, I used to decorate seven Christmas trees every year — it was fun at first but eventually became more stressful than joyful. Simplifying those traditions brought me peace and freed up time to enjoy the season more intentionally.
By paring down decorations, clothes, and even Jeep gear, I’ve learned that true happiness doesn’t come from accumulation but from clarity and calm.
Rethinking Traditions and Clutter
Many of us cling to things out of habit, nostalgia, or guilt. But as I’ve discovered, “stuff” can distract us from what’s meaningful — experiences, people, and personal growth.
Now, I focus on collecting memories, not things. Letting go of unnecessary items creates space — both physically and emotionally — for new opportunities and peace.
📘 My book, How to Declutter Your Life: A Step by Step Guide, is available on Amazon if you’d like to start your own journey.
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| Selfie driving topless |
What Is Project 100?
Living with Only 100 Items (or Fewer)
I first discovered Project 100 when I came across others who were simplifying their lives by limiting their possessions. The idea fascinated me — could I live with only 100 things?
Everyone tailors the challenge differently, setting their own rules for what counts as an “item.”
For me:
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I count individual items like coats and shoes separately.
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I group similar items like yoga gear or tech accessories.
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My current total? About 60 personal items — and I feel lighter than ever.
What I’ve Gained by Owning Less
My Project 100 journey began as a decluttering experiment but turned into something much deeper.
By selling or donating items, I made over $400 and gained something even more valuable — mental clarity. Each item I removed lightened my emotional load and reduced stress.
Decluttering became a form of self-care, a cathartic process that reminded me I don’t need “more” to be fulfilled.
The Reverse Project 100
If living with only 100 items sounds overwhelming, try the Reverse Project 100.
Instead of limiting what you own, this version challenges you to let go of 100 items — through selling, donating, or giving them away — within a set time period.
It’s a flexible, beginner-friendly way to start simplifying without pressure.
(Photo: Donation box filled with clothes and home items)
What I’ve Learned
The Project 100 Challenge isn’t just about minimalism — it’s about mindset.
By removing excess, I’ve opened space for faith, peace, and experiences that bring true fulfillment. My Jeep adventures, trail time, and quiet moments now hold more meaning than ever before.
Living simply allows me to focus on the road ahead — both on the trail and in life.
FAQs: Project 100 & Minimalism
1. What is Project 100?
Project 100 is a minimalist lifestyle challenge where participants aim to live with 100 personal items or fewer. It encourages mindfulness, simplicity, and intentional living.
2. How do you count your 100 items?
Each person defines their own rules. Some count every single item individually; others group related items like clothes or tools. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s awareness.
3. What is the Reverse Project 100?
The Reverse Project 100 challenges you to get rid of 100 items within a certain time frame. It’s a practical way to start decluttering without adopting full minimalism.
4. What are the benefits of minimalism?
Decluttering can reduce stress, improve focus, boost creativity, and help you appreciate what you already have. Many people also report financial and emotional freedom.
5. How do I start decluttering my life?
Start small. Choose one drawer, one closet, or one Jeep compartment. Ask:
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Do I use this?
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Do I love this?
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Does it add value to my life?
If not — let it go.
Decluttering isn’t about deprivation — it’s about freedom.
By letting go of what you don’t need, you make room for what truly matters: joy, connection, and purpose.
