Minimalist Midnight: A Counter Countdown
Blog Post: Minimalist Midnight - A Counter Countdown
As the clock ticks down to midnight, I am marking the New Year with a minimalist tradition: reflecting on the top 10 things I let go of this year. It’s not your usual list of resolutions, but it’s a celebration of clarity, simplicity, and the joy that comes with creating space for what truly matters—personally and professionally).
So, grab a cup of tea (or a bubbly toast) and join me as I count down to a lighter, brighter year ahead!
Top 10 Things I Let Go of This Year
#10: An Ikea pine wood bunk bed
It once hosted many pillow fights and bedtime stories, but now it’s off to a new home—and new memories. Passing the torch feels oddly satisfying!
#9: Four boxes of cherished books
Mostly non-fiction, with a few Psychology textbooks thrown in. Donating these books bid a bittersweet farewell, but the joy of learning is meant to be shared. Besides, the stories and lessons live on—soon the bookshelves can also go.
#8: A fruit-hanging basket
Turns out bananas can survive just fine on the countertop. Who knew I’d need a whole basket to figure that out?
#7: A turkey roasting pan
Used exactly twice, replaced by an electric roaster oven that I can borrow from my daughter. Now, I’ve discovered my love for red curry, making this specialty item redundant.
#6: Four sets of Closet organizers
Spoiler alert: fewer clothes = fewer organizers. Minimalism in action! Problem solved.
#5: A hand-me-down Aritzia winter jacket
One less black mid-length jacket in my life (don’t worry, two others still remain). Someone else is staying warm and stylish this winter.
#4: A costume jewelry collection
I wear the same necklace every day anyway—so off they went to better homes. Funny how I spent hours shopping for them, more hours trying them on, and even more hours organizing them neatly. Lesson learned!
#3: A Mikasa crystal cheese plate
Impulse purchase at eye level, anyone? As beautiful as it was, it’s gone to someone who hosts more cheese nights than I do. So impractical for me!
#2: A 1992 popcorn popper
Air-popped popcorn is just as satisfying—without the extra gadget! Let’s be honest, it’s the butter I really crave.
#1: A 22” Lenovo monitor
I downsized my tech setup—and I don’t miss it! My desk has so much more room now and I have a surprisingly uncluttered mind.
Top 10 Things to Let Go of This Year
Minimalist Insights for Professionals
This year, I learned that downsizing isn’t just about physical belongings; it’s also about streamlining mental and professional clutter. As a minimalist, I’ve embraced the principle of less is more: fewer distractions, clearer priorities, and sharper focus on high-impact tasks.
While these changes didn’t result in significant financial gains (I made less than $100 in profit overall), they brought immense clarity and peace. More importantly, the items I let go of are now providing value to others, extending their usefulness in meaningful ways.
I also made small but impactful changes. For instance, I reduced my coffee intake to just two cups a week and switched to tea. I only drink coffee when I am in the office. I usually go in two days a week for a hybrid work arrangement. There is a gourmet coffee machine for the staff! My go-to choice is usually a French Vanilla coffee. This seemingly minor adjustment helped me slow down, reflect more intentionally, and avoid the dreaded afternoon crash. It also served as a reminder that I can overcome entrenched habits while maintaining, if not boosting, my productivity.
Looking ahead, my next challenge is to embrace digital minimalism. By intentionally streamlining my digital life, I aim to focus more on meaningful work and eliminate distractions that add no value. This shift aligns perfectly with my ongoing journey to simplify and concentrate on essentials.
Coffee or Tea
Dear Santa, A Minimalist Wishlist
This year, I challenged Santa to help me with the more stubborn clutter:
15 boxes of books,
3 cases of CDs and cassette tapes, and
30 photo frames and albums in various sizes.
Who knows? Maybe the North Pole could use a new library! Perhaps the elves could enjoy some live music in the snow.
And then there’s the bulky furniture I’ll need help saying goodbye to:
A Yamaha drum set - my rock star days are long behind me,
An upright piano with a bench,
An antique rosewood oblong dining table with 8 chairs,
A seven-piece bedroom sets, and
Two sold wood desks.
If you’re reading this, Santa, I hope your sleigh is ready for some heavy lifting!
A Move, a Slimmer Waistline, and a Happy Surprise
Relocating to Squamish brought more than stunning views; it also brought unexpected benefits: lower cholesterol, a slimmer waistline, and the rediscovery of my size 28 Levi’s! I had almost donated them, but now they fit like a glove. Straight-leg jeans never go out of style, and neither does the simplicity of minimalist living.
What’s Your Minimalist Countdown?
As we welcome the New Year, I’d love to hear from you! Whether you’re decluttering your home, rethinking your workflow, or simplifying your daily habits, what would make your minimalist countdown?
Share your top three in the comments below, and let’s toast to a lighter, more intentional year ahead. Cheers to living simply, purposefully, and joyfully in 2025!
