My resistance surprised me.   I’d been finalizing my website, so my delay in starting this challenge on June 1st was reasonably justified, but beyond that, I really procrastinated mentally.   My inner voice kept telling me there was no way  I was going from 100 items of clothing down to only 33, especially since I’d already downsized to 100 items!  (see previous posts).  The final 33 counted accessories like sunglasses, earrings, shoes, sandals, jackets, etc.   Honestly, I didn’t think I could do it.  When I approached the 40 item mark, I was ready to amend the rules a bit.  I told myself I couldn’t simplify or release any more.  As I reached 36, I was too close not to make it work, so the final 3 had to go!

But I did it – I’ve chosen my final 33 items to wear for the next 3 months!  From June 5th to September 5th, I’ll use only the final 33 that made the cut. Project 333 Underway – Thanks Courtney Carver for the inspiration!

Here’s what I started with:

Here’s what I chose: One pair of sneakers, two sandals (one not shown because I was wearing them), one pair of earrings, one necklace, one hat, one pair of sunglasses and the rest clothing.   (Workout wear and sleepwear don’t count – thank God!)

Result – I feel completely empowered, more mindful, and less stressed.  I’m no longer sliding over item after item in my closet that I don’t feel great, searching for the ones I do feel great in.  The visual plus – every time I open my closet door, I see only what I need, want and love.  It feels simple, easy, and less overwhelming.  I also feel less guilt.  I don’t know about you, but I had a lot of clothes I didn’t wear.  But because I paid good money for them, they stayed in my closet – even though I’d slide them aside looking for something else to wear.

I’ll admit I felt close to giving up.  I felt close to backing out.  The impossibility of 33 felt like more than I wanted to embrace.  But it’s clothes – not people.   It’s stuff.  And I choose to live with less stuff.

I’m a little dorky and am always simplifying & organizing because I LOVE to, but this particular project has inspired me to simplify even more, beyond clothes.   No “thing” is guaranteed a spot to live within our home.  My family’s made me promise their stuff is off limits!   I’ve agreed to only work on mine.  Yet, I see them adding things to the donate pile as a result of my constant clearing.  Releasing is contagious, and not by force – simply by doing.

Maybe you could live with less?   Let go of items you keep sliding aside in your closet?   Share your comments below.  If this inspired you or you think it will inspire someone you know to action, please share this!