The Art of Less

How do you know when it’s time to “downsize” your physical possessions? 

“The less you own, the less that owns you.”  (Nicole Snow)

I’ve been trying lately to follow my wife Ruth’s recommendation that we get serious about “downsizing “ our newly purchased condo. Aside from practical space concerns, we’ve agreed to minimalize our home look in anticipation of a more mobile lifestyle involving long term travel. This major life decision boils down to spending less on frivolous wants (ie. extra tables, storage racks and light fixtures…) as well as eliminating unnecessary clutter from our nostalgic past.        

Fortunately we’re seeing results already. Our current living room for instance now obtains a more relaxed look with more open floor/wall space as well as wider furniture gaps similar to the example shown in my cover photo above. We’ve also managed to store away into our utility room, plenty of labeled boxes containing primarily paintings, travel/sports/family memorabilia, old CDs and various kinds of gadgetry. Eventually, most of these items will need to be either “tossed” or donated to “Goodwill.”      

So does “minimalism”work for you to relieve your life clutter? What tough decisions will you have to make in this regard? Perhaps the following poem I wrote about my own “packrat”track record will help you decide.

THE ART OF LESS

Once again you’ve consumed too much 

With space factors looming as such

Notice your want instincts quite well      

Which deepens stuff’s magical spell                                                     

With so many excuses you try

There’s no time for this darkening lie

True value flows from keen memory’s mind

Not hoarding more treasures you find.

So heed my words from one who’s wise.

Allow me to help others decide to downsize