It seems to be a growing trend, this idea of living with less, living more simply, from tiny one-roomed homes to one-bag travel to just decluttering lives and minds.
But it can be a frightening thought - a sort of fear clutches you when you think about it... 'But what if I need it? What if I miss out?'
But we are still aware of an excess in our lives that makes us at least vaguely uncomfortable. So if you have ever wondered if you could - or should - do with less, whether it is possible or practical or whether it would actually be beneficial, this article from Relevant (link at the end) has some realistic ideas to start trying it.
"Living with less is not about going without. It’s about having only what is essential and eliminating the excess. A simple life is one with fewer material possessions and, often, more meaning."
After recently downsizing from a double-storey house to a two-bedroom unit - and leaving most of possessions behind - I can say from personal experience that you probably don't need most of the stuff you own. But also that it is very easy to start acquiring it all back again.
As the article says, "Simplicity isn’t just about owning less, it’s about wanting less."
And that's the harder battle I think. But it's a valuable one, and if we can do it - if we can disconnect from the perceived 'need' to have and acquire and the fear that lurks behind it - not only might we be happier in ourselves, but I think we would start to see our outlook on the rest of the world change too.
It is a lot easier to be generous when you aren't so attached to your own needs and wants.
Read the full article here, and come back and tell me what you think. Will you try anything?
