As a child, my mother would often stand in front of my closet with a bag in hand, asking, “Keep or toss?” She’d present items like a faded dress-up skirt, a worn-out baseball glove, or a tattered doll. “No” was my frequent response, with the occasional “Yes” thrown in. The rejected items disappeared into the bag and off to the landfill they went. Afterward, I would revel in the newfound clarity and openness of my room.
Throughout my life, I’ve maintained a rather pragmatic approach to possessions. I struggle to understand the emotional ties to objects that aren’t truly cherished or useful. Consider the dried-out prom corsage, letters from past relationships, or those jeans that once fit but now hang in the back of the closet. They only occupy valuable space that could be better reserved for fresh air and new experiences.
I am unabashedly open about my penchant for discarding belongings. In fact, I hesitate to share what I’ve purged because it might prompt judgment. A word of caution: please don’t let your children gift me handmade creations. If you feel compelled to offer something, I’d prefer Davines conditioner, specifically the green variety.
The truth is, it’s not merely about eliminating high school yearbooks (of which mine have made their way to the Nevada County dump) or those countless photos (90% of mine are also gone) or even the sundresses from retail stores that never quite looked right. Once you part with these items, you’ll likely never think of them again. For instance, my mother’s wedding photo? I don’t need a visual reminder of their union to acknowledge it; I am here because they said “I do.”
Memories exist independently of physical objects. You can recall your high school days without flipping through a yearbook that features an unflattering hairstyle and peers who were less than kind.
If my personal journey toward minimalism doesn’t inspire you to consider decluttering, know that this practice can be liberating. Leah Finnegan’s insightful piece, “Throw Everything Out”, highlights the beauty of simplicity, asserting, “Most stuff is crap. And there is nothing more beautiful than an almost-empty apartment.” Diogenes of Sinope wisely stated, “It is the privilege of the gods to want nothing.”
Finnegan encourages readers to let go of at least three items, which serves as a gentle nudge toward decluttering. For more systematic guidance, Marie Kondo, the renowned organizer and author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up”, offers valuable strategies. Kondo introduces the concept of parting with anything that fails to “spark joy.” While the phrase might seem whimsical, its essence is profound: if an item doesn’t evoke love or utility, it’s time to let it go. For instance, that orange cashmere sweater that doesn’t flatter? Goodbye. The pink shoes that garner compliments but don’t resonate with me? Also farewell. And why retain a chipped bowl that brings irritation?
As for the Keen boots I purchased at a yard sale five years ago, they don’t exactly light a spark of joy for me. However, the prospect of not spending money on another pair brings a hint of satisfaction. This illustrates the process: evaluate whether each item genuinely enhances your life.
If you find yourself resistant to parting with possessions, or if you’re someone who thoroughly enjoys the act of decluttering, consider the words of fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, who stated, “The most important piece of furniture in a house is the garbage can! I keep no archives of my own, no sketches, no photos, no clothes—nothing! I am supposed to do, I’m not supposed to remember!”
Acknowledging that letting go can be challenging, remember that engaging in life and experiences is far more gratifying than clinging to memories.
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In summary, embracing a minimalist approach can lead to a more fulfilling and spacious life. By letting go of what no longer serves you, you create room for new opportunities and experiences.
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