Varying Degrees Of Minimalism

 

Minimalism is different for everyone.  For some it means to only have one fork, one spoon, one plate, one bowl.  To only have what they feel they need.  Keeping only what is necessary and nothing more.  And that is the key point.  Keeping only what is necessary to live a happy and enriched life and nothing else.

 

I try not to allow things to collect on surfaces

For others, what is necessary may mean more.  For me, I find that a complete set of silverware and dishes is necessary.  A room filled with crafting and sewing supplies is necessary.  I personally prefer to be surrounded by more things because that is what I am comfortable with.  However, I also feel that I need less of these things to feel that same sense of comfort.

 

I keep a service for 4 which works perfectly,
especially when I decide to use my dishwasher

As I am getting older I do find that what I feel is necessary to have in my life is lessening.  I no longer feel the need to stuff the craft room with everything imaginable to enjoy my hobbies.  I am happier now with a set of dishes for four instead of twelve.  I don’t need a full closet of clothes and instead I only keep items I wear on a regular basis.

 

It is super easy to figure out what to wear each day

There is no right or wrong way to live minimally.  For each of us what constitutes less is highly subjective.  I feel that you should minimize to the point that you are comfortable and only keep the things that support your current lifestyle.  Let go of anything that no longer serves you.  And that is a strong point.  Let go of anything that no longer serves you.

 

The junk drawer

I still continue to go through my things and re-evaluate the items I choose to keep often finding more stuff to get rid of.  As I age I find I prefer my possessions to be more consumable, things that move in and out of my home or are put into service on a regular basis.  Things I routinely look at and appreciate.  I no longer feel the need to have things stashed away and saved for “someday”, a special occasion or for “what if” and “just in case”.

 

The guest room/craft & sewing room

Swedish death cleaning and preparing for our ultimate demise is very important because we really shouldn’t leave our mess for others to have to deal with if we can avoid that.  I feel quite strongly about that.  Fortunately I am in that phase of life where I feel I’ve adequately done that.  I’m organized and prepared so whatever is left when I am gone is going to be manageable.  It’s a process, an important one, and as time goes on I know I’ll continue to minimize my possessions because every year I find I need to own less and less.  I am comfortable with this and that is a very good thing.