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When you've got your devices down to the ideal number, use these tips to minimize them and prevent distractions:
- Remove as many icons from your desktop as possible.
- Uninstall software you don't need.
- Delete unneeded files from your Documents folder. (If you don't want to delete them completely, at least move them to an archive folder so they don't clutter your most-used folder anymore.)
- Develop a simple but logical folder structure so that you can find documents you want easily.
- Unsubscribe to blogs, email newsletters, and advertisements that no longer serve your interests.
- Delete internet bookmarks, cookies, and temporary internet files you no longer need.
- Delete apps you don't need, remembering that if you need them later, you can always download them again. Put only your most crucial apps (such as your calendar and your phone) on your home screen. Put the rest in folders on your second screen.
- Turn off notifications, including social media push notifications and email audio alerts.
- Make sure your spam filters are working.
- Delete photos that are of poor quality or that you don't need.
- Delete unused music and movies.
- Subscribe to a password manager so that you don't have to keep track of a bunch of passwords.
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Joshua Becker (The Minimalist Home: A Room-by-Room Guide to a Decluttered, Refocused Life)