It is finally that time of year when we say goodbye to nippy and bleak winters and open the windows to welcome some warmth. It is also the season when half the world buckles down to the annual deep-cleaning ritual—spring cleaning.

Historically, the concept of spring cleaning is said to have originated in Persia. People in Iran would thoroughly clean their houses just before Nowruz, the Persian New Year. A similar tradition is observed in other parts of the world. For instance, back home, my people deep-clean their homes just before Diwali and Eid. Likewise, in China, people clean their houses on the 24th day of the 12th month of the lunar calendar, and in Japan, this tradition occurs just before the New Year.

Although the seasons may differ, the essence remains the same. People pack away their winter items, deep-clean every corner of their homes, discard unused belongings, inspect electronics, wash soft furnishings, and more. However, I believe that alongside cleaning their homes, they should also undertake an internal deep clean.

In today’s world, where our lives are constantly under scrutiny (shall I blame social media?), it’s natural to accumulate negative emotions. These range from self-doubt to resentment, anger, inadequacy, loneliness, and bitterness.

If you are gearing up for spring cleaning, take the opportunity to go deeper. Address your internal clutter as well:

Get rid of negative thoughts

Negative emotions can vandalize your sanity and bring your happiness crashing down. Whether it is envy, bitterness, anger, frustration, guilt, or sadness, these feelings must be addressed and resolved. Don’t simply avoid them and let them resurface later. Dig deep to identify what’s troubling you, confront it, and work toward resolution. Your mental well-being depends on clearing this emotional debris.

Get rid of self-loathing and self-doubt

I’ve seen many people doubt themselves to the point of self-hate. Understand that you are unique in your own way. Stop hating or doubting yourself without cause. Rid yourself of the ill feelings you have harbored over the years. Self-love and self-acceptance are key to a peaceful mind and a fulfilling life.

Get rid of toxic people and harmful friendships

As part of your spring cleaning ritual this year, do yourself a favor and remove all the toxic people from your life. Continuing to entertain them will only disturb your peace of mind.

Also, bid farewell to friends who act sweet to your face but speak ill of you behind your back. Surround yourself with people who genuinely care for your well-being and uplift you.

Get rid of regrets

Holding onto “could haves” is damaging. Clinging to the past drains your well-being and hinders your growth. Free yourself from regrets; they serve no purpose and only detract from your present and future. Let go of the past and focus on the here and now.

Get rid of the habit of trying to impress everyone

Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don’t be trapped by dogma—which is living the results of other people’s thinking.

(Steve Jobs)

You weren’t born to impress everyone around you. Don’t exhaust yourself seeking validation or trying to make everyone happy. It’s an impossible task, and not everyone will be pleased with you regardless of what you do.

Instead, focus on what makes you happy. Learn to say no, set boundaries, and prioritize your well-being. Living authentically is far more fulfilling than chasing external approval.

Takeaways

Wipe out all these negative influences from your life, and make room for hope, confidence, love, compassion, happiness, and joy. The true purpose of life is to find happiness and fulfillment.

So, this year, don’t just focus on cleaning your external environment—clear your internal world too. Always remember what Eckhart Tolle once said: “Get the inside right. The outside will fall into place.”

Spring is not just about a fresh home; it’s about a fresh start for your soul. Take this opportunity to cleanse, renew, and step into a more positive and peaceful version of yourself.