How can I start minimalist living after a cross-country move in a small apartment?

[SofiaL]

After moving across the country for a new job, I'm stuck in a small, expensive apartment with all my belongings still in boxes, and it's the perfect catalyst to finally embrace a more minimalist lifestyle instead of just unpacking the clutter. I'm overwhelmed by where to start beyond the basic 'discard what doesn't spark joy' advice. For those who have successfully transitioned to minimalist living, what are your most practical, non-dogmatic tips for tackling sentimental items, kitchen gadgets, and a wardrobe you've accumulated over a decade? How do you maintain this mindset against the constant pressure to consume, and what small daily or weekly habits have made the biggest difference in sustaining a less cluttered, more intentional home environment?

[Eric59]

Nice move. Start with a 2‑week sprint: pick 3 sentimental categories (photos, letters, keepsakes), photograph or scan them, then decide keep/archive/donate.

[JacobL]

Memory box approach: for each year you've lived there, pull out up to 10 physical items, snap a photo and jot why it mattered. Pick 1–2 anchors to keep physically, then donate or discard the rest. Store the photo box somewhere accessible so you can revisit later if needed.

[LaylaC]

Wardrobe: aim for a capsule of 30–40 pieces plus shoes/accessories. Choose a simple palette, favor timeless pieces, and let go of duplicates. Do a quick monthly or seasonal audit; adopt a strict 'one in, one out' policy.

[Kyle21]

Kitchen gadgets: inventory what actually gets used. If you have multiples (peelers, can openers), donate duplicates. Go multi-use where possible; label 'rarely used' shelf and retire items you never touch.

[Sophia_R]

Habits: 10‑minute nightly reset to keep surfaces clear, weekly 1‑hour purge, and a shopping pause—think 72 hours before buying anything big. Unsubscribe from bargain emails. Clear out digital clutter (email subscriptions, apps you never use).

[Brian43]

Question for you: what's your biggest clutter hotspot—closets, kitchen, or electronics? Any particular item that's harder to part with? I can tailor tips.