Gratitude

As I clear the clutter and free up my mind, I’ve thought a lot about how big of an impact thinking with a minimal mindset has had. For a long time, I’ve seen myself as having a longterm approach to life. I make plans that will benefit me down the road, but until recently I never really had that thinking when it came to the stuff in my life. Exhibit A, the picture at the top of this post. My brother is definitely to thank for this new appreciation.

I wanted to take this post to thank my brother for getting me turned on to Minimalism.

Oh Brother

My brother has long influenced some of the best decisions I’ve made or at least helped open the path to them. Joining cross country in long-term led to me doing the same, which is pretty much the root of the life that I’ve lived to this point.

While most of our conversations over the years revolved around quoting cartoons and talking about video games, there is the occasional serious chat that is on a whole new level. From relationships to goals, we’ve had some interesting discussions. One that was particularly crucial to this latest trial was a long conversation about Netflix documentaries, in which of course, Minimalism came up.

When I got home, I gave it a watch, and it resonated with me. It forced me to look around at what I had and think about it.

A couple of months after first watching the documentary, I moved back to Eastern Iowa from the Dallas area. The move made me think about what I was taking with me, and so I took what I thought was important.

Time went on, and Minimalism kind of crept to the back of my mind. I fell back into similar habits before. Using stuff as a frequent stimulant to keep things interesting. New electronics, new trinkets, and new gear for new hobbies filled up the space around me.

This cycle continued for a while. Then, last month, I was back home for a visit. My brother and I were geeking out about Mr. Money Mustache and financial independence philosophy. I was amped.

He then mentioned the director of the Minimalism documentary had a YouTube channel and podcast. As a frequent suggester of possible trials, he also recommended I try out this game. Here we are. As I pile my mountain of the nonessential, I have him to thank.

Throughout the duration of the trial, he’s been updating me with his progress as well. For his sanity, he hasn’t been keeping the pile around as I have, but removing clutter big and small has been going well.

To my surprise, my mom also wanted to participate in this game. I’m sure she hated my post last week regarding sentimental items. We argue about them all the time. It’s been awesome hearing about how things have been going for her. Hopefully decluttering is giving her the good vibes I’ve gotten.

Coming to an End

The other night I was excited and stayed up way too late adding stuff to the pile. I may not make it all the way thru this trial but am not thinking of it as a failure. I’m beyond excited to look around at what remains and know that it survived scrutiny.

Next week will bring this trial to a close. Stop by to at least see the final photo of the accumulated clutter. While you’re here, find out what I’ll be doing next! Leave a comment below with suggestions and I might just give it a try.