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Although this post is from my perspective (a “young 20-something”), I hope even those older and wiser than I can see the benefits a minimalist and simplistic lifestyle brings. It’s never too late to start!
I may be young, but I feel that is beneficial for me when it comes to approaching a minimalist lifestyle. I may not have gone through all the life changing events that you hear about. I may not have reached that stage where I can say I walked 15 miles, in the snow, UPHILL to get to school. I am 25, and I am still very young in many eyes. But I’ve also seen what I need to do to make a difference in my life. I’ve heard of the stories of not having the means or the funds. And I’ve witnessed firsthand the stress and anxiety having too much can cause.
I may not have “experienced” it myself, but I’ve still learned from it. Last week taught me two very valuable lessons, and have reinforced my decision to pursue this lifestyle now, while I am still young.
The First: My grandmother passed away, and while the family was sorting her belongings, I was grateful for her life and her wisdom. I will miss my grandmother, but am glad her pain and suffering is over. When I visited my grandmother in October to say my goodbyes, she made it a point to tell me that “stuff” is not important and almost silly when you know most of it will go unused once you pass on. But we collect these belongings to bring joy to our lives. She told me to live each day, and not put too much emphasis on possessions. As she was getting ready to pass on, she felt guilty at the amount of things she collected over the years and how her sons would need to sort through them. I’m still very young, but the possessions I hold now are few compared to what my grandmother kept, and frankly I’m still trying to get rid of even more. Hearing her say she wished she had kept less has given me that extra boost I needed to keep going.
The Second: That same day, my cat, who I’ve had for 13 years, grew very very ill. I needed to rush him to the emergency vet hospital. $1500 later, several blood works, an x-ray, and a biopsy the vets are still stumped by what could be wrong. We’ve only narrowed it down to an infection. He seems to be doing better today, but is not out of the clear yet. I’m grateful I started this journey when I did; I would not have been able to afford his care had I not. I’m still struggling a little bit financially, but have made the decision to sell many of my larger possessions for some extra cash on the side. I’m being forced to look at each possession in the light of “What is more important? My family or this item?” It really brings about a new way to look at possessions. Had I not bought the item in the first place, I could have that cash safely tucked away at this very moment, rather than trying to pawn it off for a fraction of what I paid.
I was already moving in the direction of being cautious when purchasing any item, weighing the outcome. But now, my decision has been reinforced. I believe it’s important to start young to help build a more successful future. It’s important to reach this mentality now so that one day I can feel comfortable with what I have (and what I do not). I want to be able to support myself, and my family, without the stress and heartache that comes from having too much stuff and not enough funds. To do this, I feel it’s important I continue minimizing and simplifying, to free myself from the burden of clutter and possessions, so that I may one day provide a happy life for my own young ones. And hopefully teach them valuable lessons they can carry on.
I’m reaching for happiness – are you with me?
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