Decluttering for a Fresh Start: A Journey in Cincinnati

By Rosie Chinea Shawver

Executive Director of the Catholic Campus Ministry Association

This week, I had the privilege of spending time in Cincinnati, Ohio, a place that holds special significance as the former headquarters of CCMA (Catholic Campus Ministry Association). Being there felt like walking on holy ground, and it was a true blessing to connect with members and benefactors of CCMA. The picture is of a baby of a CCMA friend who lives in Cincinnati.

One of the main reasons for my visit was to clean out an old storage unit filled with office furniture and files. With our team fully remote and our main headquarters in California, we consolidated our storage from an oversized garage to a compact 5x5 unit. This decluttering process got me thinking deeply about how we can start the new year fresh, spiritually, and practically.

1. Spiritual Decluttering: Removing Noise to Hear God's Voice

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to get caught up in the noise surrounding us. Spiritually, this noise can be anything that distracts us from our relationship with God. Here are a few ways to remove that noise:

  • Daily Quiet Time: Set aside a specific time for quiet reflection and prayer each day. This can be in the morning before the day starts or in the evening before bed.

  • Simplify Your Schedule: Look at your calendar and see what commitments are essential. Freeing up time can create more space for spiritual growth and listening to God's voice.

  • Mindful Media Consumption: Evaluate the media you consume. Consider reducing time spent on social media, TV, and other distractions that can cloud your mind.

2. Practical Decluttering: Creating an Efficient Office Space

Just as we need to declutter our spiritual lives, our physical spaces also need attention. A clean, organized office can lead to greater productivity and a clearer mind. Here's how to get started:

  • Set a Date for a Deep Clean: Dedicate a specific day for a thorough office cleaning. Remove everything from your desk and only put back what is necessary.

  • Group Efforts: If you work in a team, declutter a group project. It can be a bonding experience and makes the task less daunting.

  • Organize and Label: Use storage bins, folders, and labels to keep everything in its place. This not only helps in finding things quickly but also keeps the space tidy.

3. Other Ideas for a Fresh Start

  • Digital Declutter: Clean your email inbox, organize your digital files, and uninstall apps you no longer use. A streamlined digital space can reduce stress and increase efficiency.

  • Personal Reflection: Take time to reflect on the past year. What worked well? What didn't? Use these reflections to set goals for the new academic year.

  • New Beginnings: Embrace the idea of new beginnings. This could mean starting a new project, learning a new skill, or simply adopting a new mindset.

In conclusion, decluttering is not just about getting rid of physical items; it's about making space for what truly matters. As we embark on this journey, let's focus on Christ, listening to Him intently and allowing Him to guide us in all aspects of our lives. Here's to a fresh, organized, and spiritually enriching new academic year!

Rosie Chinea Shawver