Something has happened in 2016. The year ahead looks promising. It’s not always like that for me. With the exception of a lazy New Year’s Day, I’ve walked my dog and begun (and stuck with) a meditation practice (Davidji’s 40 Days of Transformation) every day this year, and today will mark a solid week of evening yoga. (Where is that coming from?)

I’ve spent my mornings designing my year by filling out a colorful life-planning workbook, while keeping track of my goals in a snazzy new planner. They’re bright and cheerful asking me simple, but thought-provoking questions, to guide me towards creating the best year for me. I’m half way through the “Life Planner,” and intend to begin the “Biz Planner” later this week. The workbooks encourage me to choose a word for the year, like Staci and Debbie have done, and although I’ve chosen a word since 2011, outside of Expansion, the rest fizzled out. This year though, I’ve found a word that feels right every way I look at it:

SPACE

As photographers, we’re used to the concept of space by using it compositionally to create balance within an image. You’ve probably heard of the term “negative space” or “white space” before, which refers to the areas between and around the elements in your images. In 2016, I’ve decided to apply this concept to my life by creating space not only in my photography, but also in my physical surroundings by clearing away clutter, and in my mind by quieting my thoughts.

I’m happy to share, that I’m off to a fantastic start. I’ve begun by embracing the popular KonMari method of tidying up one’s home, and am pleased to tell you that I’ve successfully made space within my wardrobe having cleared out 10 trash bags – and counting – of clothing, shoes and accessories! (I had no idea I had that many clothes!) According to the KonMari method, I’ll be sorting through books and paper next this month, before tackling miscellany and mementos later in the year. For the first time in a while, I can finally see all my floors and carpets!

Once I have my house in order, I’ll be turning my attention to my online homes. Like Kirstin, I’ve begun cleaning up my social media accounts, ensuring that my online space reflects the changes I’m striving to achieve here at home. I’ve been reviewing my Instagram account by paring down my followings, while cleaning up my Pinterest boards to reflect the visual space I am in right now.

By clearing, decluttering, and creating space, I’m looking forward to seeing where my muse takes me in the coming months. How will you begin again in 2016? Are you finding a way to make space too photographically or otherwise? Share with us in the comments! I would love to hear your thoughts! Decluttering really can be a cleansing and good feeling to get all sorted.

Holly ~ Soupatraveler