I recently watched 'Minimalism: A Documentary about the Important Things" on Netflix. The ideas presented are simple: minimize your belongings and use only what you need. As a result, your worries trickle away and you can focus on what matters - creation and connection. Sure, a great idea in a utopian society where everything is perfect, right? Nope, it's applicable to you right now!
How many times have you picked a shirt out for an outfit only to look at yourself and realize you absolutely despise that shirt and you ponder what made you buy it originally. And then what do we do? We hang the hated shirt back into the closet so the same process can happen next week. Instead of hanging the shirt back, I toss it into the donation pile. Now, my closet is a smaller but filled with more quality. I love the outfits I wear, and I feel comfortable throughout my day instead of wearing that one shirt just because.
Cleaning out closets.
Minimizing your living space.
Being satisfied with what you have instead of what you want.
All of these ideas are interconnected in a sphere that ultimately brings about a life with fewer choices, and fewer hassles that we somehow create for ourselves by mindlessly making decisions based on our short-term desires instead of the long-term needs.
I noticed myself buying books instead of reading them, as if owning more books transformed me into a more intellectual person. I bought clothes that I thought spoke for my personality or satisfied a fashion trend instead of spending the time to develop desirable traits or dress in clothes that I liked. I even went as far as buying songbooks for violin instead of practicing using the ones I already owned.
Simply, I tried to fill the gap between who I am and who I want to be by purchasing things that seemingly did the hard work for me.
After watching this documentary, I took the time to declutter my apartment. I recycled and donated what I could, being sure to remove as many unnecessary duplicates as possible. Now, every item has its place and finding things has never before been easier. I feel secure in believing what I have is enough. I am so fortunate to have the opportunities that have been given to me, and instead of being a part of the eternal rat race for more, I've chosen to embrace what I have and live a life of comfort without excess.
The Minimalists speak for the loss of human connection that we've fostered in our new digital age. Possessions are occupying the space that was once filled by the highs and lows that create a beautiful life. We've stopped loving people, and started loving things, and that has to change.
For further information, check out their website here: http://www.theminimalists.com/ and watch their documentary on Netflix!
