“We need much less than we think we need.”― Maya Angelou
This is one of those quotes that speaks volumes without too many words. We all have more things than we need, there’s no doubt about that. Upon realizing that, consider donating things. Doing so will give you a little more space in your life. More space to create, think, and be free. How does the saying go? One person's trash is another person's treasure. If in fact, it is beyond being anyone’s treasure, throw it out. Trust me, not only will you not miss whatever it is you got rid of, but you will also realize whatever “it” may has served its purpose and it’s time to move on.
A simple life is a happy life and face it, clutter in your home can weigh you down. Stuff steals space, time, and energy because it keeps you busy and focused on less important things, instead of what matters to you most. Get rid of the things you don’t use, need or love. This will give you more space, time, and energy for what matters to you most including your goals, values, and priorities.
Once your home is uncluttered, the next and most important step is to slow the flow of stuff coming into your home. Become intentional with your spending and your purchases. One way to slow the flow is to come up with a challenge where you decide to only buy essentials like food and gas for a certain time without spending anything extra or non-essential. If you see something you may think you need, take a breath, avoid that impulse purchase and wait a week, a month, or even longer before buying something you think you want or need. You will be surprised by how many things you don’t actually need.
As you may know, raising children can be a challenge. I have two daughters, both are opposites. The oldest is thrifty and has the propensity to save every penny she can for her future. The youngest has more clothes currently than I have had my entire life. But maybe the Gucci items that I have purchased over time have given her a passion for the brand along with other brands and stores like Lululemon, Tiffany’s, and Louis Vuitton.
Not that long ago, I was shopping at a high-end mall near me and came across a watch that caught my eye. I currently have several nice timepieces, but for some reason, I was convinced I needed another. I walked into the store, tried it on, and thought it was perfect. Suddenly, Maya Angelou was whispering into my ear. She reminded me that I need much less than think I need. Even though I could afford the watch, it occurred to me that I did not need it. I walked out of the store, took a deep breath, and felt good about my decision not to buy something I thought I should buy, but did not need!
Perhaps if I had the “We need much less than we think we need” mentality at a younger age and before I had children, I could have led a life of example that would have naturally instilled that philosophy into my children. As I clear out a room in my home so my youngest can move home with all her Lululemon clothes and Gucci accessories, I am making a promise to myself that I will spoil my future grandchildren in a way that is intentional and only gift them the stuff that they need. A simple life IS a happy life. What are your goals, values and priorities?