Definition: a style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity.
Is less really more?
This is the title of the Netflix special by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. They started a blog together over 10 years ago and also released a book on the subject.
What is so special about these guys? Their stories are both about, ‘what they thought they needed vs what they needed to feel content. ‘They believed if they got the right job with the right salary and the right car they would feel fulfilled. The problem was the goalpost was always moving, the more they earned, the more they spent. They are not alone according to bankrate.com, 50% of Americans are in credit card debt.
Why are so many of us spending more than we have? Comparison! It really is the thief of joy. Instead of looking outward for answers we should rather dive deep inwards. What is important to us? What are our values? Figure out What lights us up. Or as Marie Forleo says ‘What sparks our joy?’
How did they get started?
Started a 30 day challenge. On day one Joshua gave away / donated or sold 1 item, on day 2 two items, and so on until day 30.
Packing challenge. Nick packed up all his belongings, making sure to mark each one very carefully. As he needed an item, he would remove it. Leaving him only with the items he really needed.
Marie kondo uses a method of sorting in categories.
Everyone is so different, so finding the right method that works for you and your family, is very personal. Just remember less stuff =less chaos and clutter.
We went through our very own experiment when we moved from Johannesburg, South Africa to Roseville California in Sept 2023. We sold and donated 90 % of our ‘stuff’ and only took 2 suitcases each with us. For me, it was a really liberating experience. My kiddos however did not feel the same way.
A year later we have accumulated a TON of stuff. It’s not our fault though. It takes hard work to be intentional with material objects. Especially when we are wired to always wanting more through technology and media. Of course, we are dissatisfied when our expectations are so unrealistic. That fitness blogger’s body, that YouTuber’s house. We are setting ourselves up for failure.
Progress is always better than perfection. If decluttering everything feels overwhelming, then start small. One draw or one category? Dana k white from ‘ a slob comes clean says start with an area you see a lot. I love this advice. It can be tough when you spend time and energy on the pantry cupboard and no one even notices. This will help inspire us to do more.
I liked this post from @bookreadersclub
It makes us think about what the real luxuries in life are.
Freedom?
Time?
Community and connection?
Peace?
Purpose and Identity?
What is success? What are we striving for? Things or memories?My husband and I do not buy each other gifts for our anniversary each year. We instead take turns organizing a date. A special time together to connect.
In their other Netflix special- Minimalism David Friedlander speaks about a study of family of 4 using a heat map. They only used about 40% of their space. Take a moment and think about where you live. How much of your house is lived in? Do you want a bigger house to fit your stuff? Dana K. White says that before we organize, we must declutter. Removing one item from your house is decluttering. It will always be a work in progress.
We deserve to live happy lives and perhaps decluttering is the first step.
Check out my podcast. We dive deep into topics like organizing a home and removing overwhelm.
