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Boy playing in front of his modest home and happy as can be. |
This month marks the 3 year anniversary of my backpack trip to the Philippines. I know I have talked about this trip a couple of times now, but I do so because it was such an incredible learning experience.
It was this trip that strongly reinforced how little it takes to really be happy. If I can easily survive on what fits on my back and Filippinos can live in 10 x 10 grass roofed huts then why is so much stuff needed at home?
Sadly, we live in a materialistic culture that is not only having negative impact on our lives, but also contributing to environmental destruction. It has somehow become a part of who we are. Now don't get me wrong, I'm all for owning things that make life easier or that we truly enjoy, but what about all the other crap (pardon my French) that contributes nothing to the quality of our life or the world around us? Even I sometimes feel that I own too much stuff and am constantly looking for things to donate or sell.
Stuff costs money. Sometimes lots of money. You pay to buy, to maintain, to store, to sell (good for you, by the way). And this is just the tangible aspect of stuff. Have you ever considered the mental cost or how about the emotional cost of stuff? Wowzer!
Some lie awake at night thinking and worrying about all their clutter. Others feel stressed when trying to relax at home or snapping at the kids or spouse because they simply can't handle it anymore. This when you know that you no longer own your things; they have transferred ownership to themselves. This is not a position you want to be in. I get questions on an almost daily basis about how do I personally control the clutter and stuff in my life. My answer: I don't let it come through my front door. The only things allowed into my home or office are those that I know that I will definitely use or enjoy. If you don't let them in, you don't have to deal with them.
Here are some other helpful ways to keep your life "stuff" free: - If you don't need it, don't buy it. Seems like a simple concept, doesn't it? Value comes from using things, not owning them so buy only what you need and use.
- Lend and borrow (my personal favorite!). Consider borrowing what you need from family and friends, making sure you return it in the shape you recieved it and in a timely manner. Be open to lending your items as well. Each peson may get to own, store, and maintain less as a result.
- Experiences, not things. Which do you remember more, the family trip to Disney and your experiences together or the tchotchkes you brought home? Just sayin'.
- Focus on you, not your neighbor. Life isn't a race to see who can have the most or best stuff. Just because your neighbor has the newest 3D TV doesn't mean you need to. Learn to be content with what you have and keep your life goals in mind when you find you're comparing yourself to others.
I would really love to hear how you have managed to simplify your life or perhaps are finding the process challenging. Your success or struggle could be helpful to others so let's see how we can all help one another. |
