Less is More Archives - Page 6 of 6 - The Minimalist Boomer

Consumption, Intentional Living, Less is More, Mindfulness, Minimalism

On Sale – Be Careful

Jamie Perkins

·

July 6, 2023
On Sale– these two words can stir up a wave of excitement. But to a minimalist, it’s a different story. The idea of owning only what’s needed, not what is simply desired, is a key aspect of the minimalist lifestyle. It’s about finding freedom from the modern world’s obsession with more – more stuff, more clutter, more stress.

We still must shop on occasion though! For example, we need new bedding. I’ve been aware of this need for a few weeks, and I began researching the type of bedding I wanted to purchase. This is an investment for us because I always buy very good quality sheets which last for a few years. After doing my research and making my decision, I waited. Along came the 4^th of July sales and that was my time to pull the trigger! By waiting just a couple of weeks, I saved 25%, about $200, for the bedding I wanted. To me, that is worth the wait.

The Minimalist’s Approach to Sales

A minimalist’s approach to buying things on sale involves being intentional and deliberate. Instead of indulging in impulsive purchases, a minimalist carefully considers whether the item is necessary or adds value to their life. We prioritize quality over quantity, valuing long-lasting and versatile items that can fulfill multiple purposes.

When it comes to sales, a minimalist focuses on seeking out essential items that are genuinely needed, rather than being lured in by the appeal of discounted prices. By adopting this mindset, we can avoid clutter, save money, and maintain a streamlined lifestyle.

Assessing the Need

Before making any purchase, it’s essential to assess the need behind it. Ask yourself questions like:
- Is this item something I genuinely need, or is it a want?
- Will this purchase add value to my life or enhance my well-being?
- Can I find an alternative solution or repurpose something I already own?
By critically evaluating your needs, you can avoid unnecessary purchases and focus on acquiring items that truly align with your values and lifestyle.

Prioritizing Essential Purchases

“A bargain isn’t a bargain unless it’s something you need.” – Sidney Carroll

Minimalists prioritize essential purchases to avoid accumulating unnecessary possessions. To determine what is essential, consider:
- Identifying your core values and needs
- Setting clear goals and priorities
- Investing in high-quality, versatile items
By focusing on what actually matters to you, you can make purchasing decisions that align with your minimalist philosophy and long-term goals.

Avoiding Impulse Buying

Impulse buying can lead to regret and clutter. To avoid succumbing to impulsive purchases, keep in mind these strategies:
- Create a waiting period before making a purchase
- Consider the long-term value of the item
- Stick to a shopping list and avoid browsing aimlessly
By implementing these tactics, you can resist the temptation of instant gratification and make conscious choices that contribute to a more minimalist lifestyle.

Tips for Shopping Sales as a Minimalist

As minimalists, we understand the importance of making intentional choices when it comes to our purchases. Shopping sales can be a great opportunity to find quality items at a discounted price, but it’s essential to approach these sales with a clear plan in mind. Here are some tips to help you navigate sales as a minimalist:

Planning Ahead

Before diving into the realm of sales, take some time to evaluate your needs. Consider what items would enhance your life and define your priorities. This will help to avoid impulse purchases and focus on finding the right items.

Researching Prices and Brands

When it comes to shopping sales, knowledge is power. Researching prices and brands beforehand allows you to make informed decisions. Compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal for the same quality. Familiarize yourself with brands that align with your values, such as those known for their durability or sustainable practices.

Setting a Budget

One of the key principles of minimalism is mindful spending. Before engaging in any sale, it’s crucial to establish a budget. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and stick to it. By setting a clear limit, you can avoid unnecessary purchases and maintain control over your finances.

Remember, as a minimalist, it’s not about acquiring as many items as possible, but rather about choosing items that add value to your life. Shopping sales with intention and purpose allows you to make the most of these opportunities while staying true to your minimalist philosophy.

Investing in Durable and Timeless Pieces

“Buy less. Choose well. Make it last. Quality, not quantity.” – Vivienne Westwood

Try to choose items that are built to last which allow us to reduce waste and minimize our consumption in the long run. Instead of following passing trends, focus on timeless designs and classic styles that will stand the test of time.

Adopting a minimalist viewpoint can greatly enhance our lives. By focusing on the essentials and decluttering our physical and mental spaces, we can experience a newfound sense of freedom and clarity.

Approaching sales from a minimalist’s perspective allows you to make thoughtful choices that align with your values. Instead of getting caught up in the frenzy of discounts and impulse buying, take a step back and evaluate if the item adds value to your life. By being intentional with your purchases, you can create a carefully selected collection of items that bring you joy and serve a purpose, without cluttering your space or draining your wallet.
Decluttering, Intentional Living, Less is More, Mindfulness

The Problem with Free

Jamie Perkins

·

July 3, 2023

Especially when You don’t want or need it

The Problem with Free often seems like a paradox. Everyone is supposed to love free stuff, right? But what happens when you’re flooded with things you don’t really need? Clutter! That’s the problem. Too many free things can lead to a messy, cluttered environment. So, it’s important to learn that if you don’t want it or need it, even if it’s free, it’s probably just going to become clutter.

People look at you like you’re crazy when you say, “No thank you,” as they try to hand you a free item. They automatically ask you why you don’t want it. As soon as you tell them you won’t use it or you don’t care for it, they still try to convince you to take it. It’s OK to say NO, THANK YOU.

The Appeal of Free

The concept of “free” has become incredibly enticing. Who doesn’t love getting something for nothing? Whether it’s a free trial, free sample, free subscription, or a free e-book, the appeal of free is hard to resist. But what is it about the word “free” that captures our attention and makes us eager to take advantage of these offers?

The Psychology of Free

As human beings, we have a natural inclination to seek out and obtain things without having to pay for them. This can be traced back to our primal instincts for survival and acquiring resources. When we come across something that is offered for free, our brains release dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical that reinforces our desire for more.

The psychology of free taps into our fear of missing out. We don’t want to pass up an opportunity, especially when it doesn’t cost us anything. This fear of missing out, or FOMO, drives us to take advantage of free offers, even if we may not necessarily use or need the item or service being offered.

The word “free” also triggers a sense of reciprocity. When we receive something for free, we feel compelled to give back in some way. This can come in the form of purchasing additional products or services from the provider, recommending the offering to others, or simply feeling a sense of gratitude.

The Cost of Free

“Sometimes one pays most for the things one gets for nothing.” ― Albert Einstein

While free things may not require a direct monetary payment, they often come with hidden costs. For instance, free apps, subscriptions or websites may bombard you with intrusive advertisements, compromising your user experience. Some free products may lack the same level of quality or functionality as their paid counterparts, resulting in frustration and wasted time.

Free offerings can also lead to a loss of privacy. Many free services rely on collecting user data to generate revenue, which raises concerns about how our personal information is being used and shared. It’s crucial to consider the potential trade-offs before diving into the world of freebies.

The Emotional Attachment to Free

Freebies often trigger an emotional response within us. We feel a sense of excitement and anticipation when we receive something for free. It’s as if we’ve won a prize or stumbled upon a hidden treasure. Be careful, this emotional attachment can cloud our judgment and lead us to accumulate items that we neither want nor need.

Think about it: how many free pens, keychains, lanyards, or tote bags do you actually use on a regular basis? Chances are, most of them are collecting dust in a drawer somewhere. Yet, we hold onto them because they represent a sense of value, even if that value is purely sentimental. Breaking free from this emotional attachment is the first step toward decluttering our lives.

The Hidden Costs of Clutter

While freebies may not cost us money upfront, they come with hidden costs that can add up over time. Clutter takes up physical space in our homes, making it difficult to find the things we truly need. It can also lead to disorganization and a constant feeling of being overwhelmed.

Clutter can also impact our mental well-being. Studies have shown that a cluttered environment can increase stress levels and make it harder for us to focus and relax. Our minds become cluttered as well, as we constantly worry about cleaning, organizing, and managing all the excess stuff.

The Solution

Now that we have identified the problem with free and the clutter it can create in our lives, it’s time to explore the solution. By implementing a few key strategies, we can regain control over our belongings and prioritize what truly adds value to our lives.

Assessing the True Value

“Sooner or later there will always be a cost for free stuff” ― Will Leamon

When it comes to freebies, it’s important to assess their true value before accepting or keeping them. Ask yourself, “Will this item or service enhance my life in a meaningful way?” By evaluating the usefulness and relevance of freebies, you can prevent unnecessary clutter from accumulating. Remember, more isn’t always better, and it’s quality that truly matters.

Prioritizing Quality over Quantity

In a world where freebies abound, it’s tempting to accumulate as much as possible. Prioritizing quality over quantity can lead to a more fulfilling and clutter-free lifestyle. Instead of accepting every free item that comes your way, consider the long-term value it will bring. Choose items that align with your goals, values, and interests, and let go of the rest. By focusing on quality, you can ensure that the things you own truly enhance your life.

Letting Go of Unused Freebies

One of the biggest challenges in dealing with freebies is the reluctance to let go of unused items. We often hold onto them, thinking that we might need them someday. This mindset only contributes to clutter and disorganization. Take the time to declutter your space and let go of freebies that no longer serve a purpose in your life.

Freebies may seem like a great deal initially, but if we do not use or need them, they only serve to take up valuable space, both physically and mentally. By being mindful of what we bring into our lives and resisting the urge to accumulate unnecessary free items, we can create a more streamlined and clutter-free environment.

Instead of focusing on quantity, let’s prioritize quality and purpose when it comes to the things we bring into our lives. Remember, less is often more, and by decluttering our surroundings, we can create a sense of calm and clarity that allows us to fully enjoy the things that truly matter.
Intentional Living, Legacy, Less is More, Mindfulness

Leave Memories, Not Boxes of Stuff

Jamie Perkins

·

June 30, 2023
Leaving memories, not boxes of stuff, is something we begin thinking about as we grow older. We all accumulate items over time. But often, these possessions turn into clutter, leaving a burden for those left behind. Today, Boomers, we will explore the idea of leaving a legacy of experiences and memories instead of material possessions.

This is about choosing a life well-lived over a house filled with stuff. It’s about creating lasting memories that will be cherished by your loved ones long after you’re gone. Making your life story rich with experiences, not things, is a meaningful way to be remembered. Join me in thinking about how we can make this possible and why it’s an idea worth considering.

The Importance of Leaving Memories

When we think about our legacy, what comes to mind? Is it the wealth we accumulate or the possessions we leave behind? Or is it the memories we create and the impact we have on others? In a world that worships materialism, it’s easy to forget that memories are the true treasures we should strive to leave behind.

Memories Last Forever

Unlike physical possessions that can fade, break, or be lost, memories have the power to endure the test of time. They remain etched in our minds and hearts, ready to be recalled and cherished at any moment. Memories are the threads that connect us to our past, allowing future generations to learn from our experiences and keep our stories alive.

Memories Bring Comfort and Connection

When we lose a loved one, it’s not their material possessions that bring us solace in our grief. It’s the memories we shared together that provide us with comfort and a sense of connection. Memories have the remarkable ability to surpass physical boundaries and bring people together, even long after someone is gone.

Memories Have Lasting Impact

Our memories shape who we are and influence the lives of those around us. The lessons we learned, the moments we cherished, and the experiences we had all contributed to our personal growth and development. By leaving behind meaningful memories, we have the power to inspire, teach, and guide future generations.
- Memories remind us of the importance of love and relationships.
- Memories teach us valuable life lessons and wisdom.
- Memories inspire us to live our lives to the fullest.
- Memories connect us to our cultural and familial roots.
Leaving memories is not about accumulating physical possessions or leaving behind a vast estate. It’s about creating moments that matter, forging connections with others, and leaving a lasting impact on the world. When we prioritize memories over materialism, we ensure that our legacy is one filled with love, joy, and meaningful experiences.

The Problem with Accumulating A Bunch of Stuff

Accumulating stuff has become a common problem for many of us. Having too much stuff leads to clutter and chaos in our lives. It takes up valuable space, both physically and mentally. It can be overwhelming and stressful to try and manage all the things we accumulate. So, let’s think twice before collecting all the stuff and focus on what truly matters in life.

Stuff Takes Up Space

One of the most obvious problems with accumulating stuff is that it takes up physical space. As we bring more and more items into our lives, our living spaces become cluttered and cramped. Instead of enjoying an open and inviting home, we find ourselves surrounded by piles of possessions, making it difficult to relax and unwind.

Not only does clutter make our living spaces feel smaller, but it also makes it harder to find the things we truly need. How many times have you spent precious minutes searching for your keys or that important document buried under a mountain of stuff? By accumulating fewer things, we can create a more organized and streamlined living environment.

It Can Cause Stress

Studies have shown that living in a cluttered environment can increase stress levels and make it difficult to focus. The constant visual reminder of unfinished tasks and disorganization can weigh heavily on our minds.

The process of managing all our stuff can also be overwhelming. Cleaning, organizing, and maintaining our possessions takes time and energy that could be better spent on more fulfilling activities. By decluttering and only keeping the things that truly matter to us, we can alleviate stress and free up mental space for more important aspects of life.

Much of it Often Holds No True Value

While it may be tempting to hold onto every item we come across, the truth is that many of them hold no real value. We accumulate things for various reasons, but often, they end up forgotten or unused. That expensive gadget you had to have? It’s now collecting dust in a drawer. The trendy clothes that seemed so important? They’re now out of style and taking up valuable closet space.

Our society is obsessed with consumerism, where the value of objects is often compared with our own self-worth. But possessions alone do not define our happiness or success. True value lies in experiences, relationships, and personal growth. By breaking free from the accumulation mindset, we can focus on what truly matters and create meaningful memories.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on the problem with accumulating stuff. It not only takes up physical space but also adds unnecessary stress to our lives. Many of the things we accumulate hold no true value. It’s time to shift our perspective and prioritize what truly brings us joy, so that when we leave this world, we leave behind memories, not boxes of stuff.

How to Shift Focus to Leaving Memories

When it comes to our legacy, what truly matters is the memories we leave behind. Instead of accumulating boxes of stuff, let’s shift our focus toward creating meaningful experiences.

Prioritize Experiences over Possessions

Life is about the moments we live, not the things we own. By prioritizing experiences, we create a life filled with meaningful memories. Instead of spending money on material possessions, invest your precious time in activities and adventures that bring joy and satisfaction to you. Whether it’s traveling to new places, trying new hobbies, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, these experiences will enrich your life and create lasting memories.

Focus on Meaningful Connections

“In every conceivable manner, the family is a link to our past, a bridge to our future.” – Alex Haley

Our relationships are the threads that weave the fabric of our lives. To leave behind valuable memories, focus on building and nurturing meaningful connections with others. Take the time to listen and appreciate the people in your life. Engage in deep conversations, share laughter, and create memories together. Surrounding yourself with loved ones who uplift and inspire you will leave a lasting impression on both you and them.

Document and Share Your Life Story

Each of us has a unique story to tell. By documenting your life, you can preserve memories for future generations and inspire others. Start a journal to capture your thoughts, experiences, and lessons learned. Share your stories with loved ones or consider starting a blog to reach even more people you care about. By reflecting on your journey and sharing your experiences, you leave a meaningful legacy that goes far beyond material possessions.

Establish Relationships by Becoming Pen Pals with Family & Friends

Another wonderful way to share memories is by establishing pen pal relationships with family and friends. Through handwritten letters, you can exchange personal stories, recount shared experiences, and create a lasting connection. This allows you to not only reminisce about the past but also keep the memories alive in present-day interactions. Many children these days don’t receive handwritten letters. It’s important to continue to correspond in this way so that it doesn’t become a lost art.

Create Memory Journals or Scrapbooks

Documenting memories in a tangible way is a beautiful and creative way to share them with your loved ones. Consider creating memory journals or scrapbooks filled with photographs, handwritten notes, and mementos. These personalized keepsakes can be passed down through generations, allowing your loved ones to relive the cherished memories and stories you’ve shared.

Utilize Digital Platforms for Sharing

There are countless platforms available to share memories with loved ones. From social media to online photo albums, you can easily upload and share photographs, videos, and stories. Embrace these digital tools to create virtual connections with family and friends, ensuring that your memories are accessible and cherished by all.

Legacy Planning for Leaving Lasting Memories

When it comes to thinking about our own mortality, it can be difficult to imagine a world without us in it. Taking the time to plan for our legacy can ensure that the memories we leave behind are cherished and meaningful. Legacy planning allows us to shape how we will be remembered and leaves a lasting impact on our loved ones.

Involve Loved Ones in the Process

When it comes to planning your legacy, involving your loved ones in the process can make it even more meaningful. Seek their input, listen to their ideas, and involve them in decision-making. This not only ensures that your legacy aligns with your values and desires but also creates a sense of togetherness and shared purpose. By involving your loved ones, you can strengthen your relationships and build a legacy that reflects who you are.

By shifting our focus from stuff to experiences, we can create a legacy that truly matters. When we die, our loved ones will remember the moments we shared, the adventures we embarked on, and the love we gave, rather than the physical objects we owned.

“What we have once enjoyed we can never lose; all that we deeply love becomes a part of us.” – Helen Keller

Ultimately, the choice to leave memories, not boxes of stuff, is a conscious decision that requires a shift in mindset. It may not always be easy, but the rewards are immeasurable. So let us focus on creating lasting memories, cherishing experiences, and building relationships that will be remembered long after we are gone. In the end, it is the memories we leave behind that truly define our legacy.
Baby Boomers, Downsizing, Intentional Living, Less is More, Mindfulness, Minimalism

I Hate to Break it To You

Jamie Perkins

·

April 12, 2023

But, Nobody Wants Your Stuff

Advice for boomers ready to unload family treasures

If you are blessed with parents who are still living, now may be a good time to discuss how you plan to handle their belongings once they pass away. It’s not an easy discussion, but it is an important one. I wish I’d been able to have those talks with my parents, but sadly, they both died rather suddenly from a rapidly growing, insidious cancer, within six months of one another. They lived just down the street from me and I became their caregiver. Caring for their basic needs became a full-time job and it never really occurred to me to discuss this while all of our energy was focused on helping them to just make it through another day.

Photo credit: Ryan Robinson, www.ryrob.com

They had “everything” written in their Trust, which was a huge leather-bound binder, and they really believed that’s all I would need in order to handle their estate upon their passing. According to them, their affairs were in order.

Having a Trust is absolutely essential and I recommend all Boomers have one and that you be sure to discuss it with your loved ones. The Trust documents certainly relieved a great deal of pressure for me as we went through the process of settling their estate. But it is literally the tip of the ice burg when you find yourself in this position. It’s difficult to describe it because you’re in mourning. It’s one of the worst times in your life to have to make important decisions.

Once the “big” stuff is handled, the house, cars, etc., you are left with a lifetime of “STUFF” which needs to be dealt with. And guess what? NOBODY wants the prized possessions of your parents, not even you or your children.

Many boomers are charged with having to dispose of your parents belongings. Once you’ve been through this process, you realize how important it is to get your stuff in order. Don’t repeat this process with your children or family members. Start now. Go through one drawer, cupboard, closet at a time. If something is valuable to you, ask your family members if they would like to have it and make a note of it in your Trust binder. Here are a few simple ways to begin the process.

Steps to Begin Decluttering Your Home

Dedicate some time to focus on decluttering

Organizing and straightening up your space takes time. If you’re ready to make some real progress on decluttering your home, schedule a block of time to get started. Make it a priority and stick to it.

Keep only what you’ve used in the last year

Do yourself a favor right now and let go of the mindset “maybe I could use this item in the future.” That kind of thinking isn’t going to work if you want to make your home clutter-free. If you haven’t used an item in the last year, it needs to go to a local donation center or to the curbside in your big trash can.

The timeframe of a year works well because it gives you opportunities to make decisions about seasonal decorations and other rarely used items. Over the course of a year, you will have the opportunity to use every item in your home. If you don’t use something during this time, it’s time to simplify.

One is good, so more is better? No, get rid of duplicate items

If you have multiples of an item (unless we’re talking practical storage items like batteries or lightbulbs) then it needs to go. Sometimes we forget we have something, so we buy it again. I will have my son, Ryan Robinson, address his particular topic in a guest post one day. He has first-hand experience with this issue from having to settle his father’s affairs.

Sometimes we upgrade, but still hold onto a less-useful, lower-quality item.

Why do we do that? It makes no sense to keep the inferior item if we replaced it intentionally. This is especially true when it comes to decluttering and organizing your closets and drawers. Trust me, you do not need ten grey sweatshirts. Sort through your multiples—pants, tops, shoes, and other items. Decide what fits well and which items are in good shape. Keep the best of and donate or trash the rest.

Create a designated spot for items you keep

Everything needs a home. EVERYTHING. Even if it’s going in a drawer. Use containers for drawer organization to help you maximize your storage space. Create ways to house and hold all the stuff you want to keep. And remember, if you don’t use it, toss it. If it’s a product which has expired, toss it.

Cut back on paper clutter by digitalizing your photos

We all have hundreds, if not thousands of photos. Here’s the good news. We live in a day and age where we can store all of them on our computers and in cloud storage. It may be a bit frightening to discard those treasured items, especially if you’re new to digital storage, but once you see how much it cuts back on paper clutter, you’ll be convinced.

It is very time consuming in the beginning if you have lots of photos, but I find that I actually look at the photos more often now that they are digitized. I scanned or took a picture of the original photos and stored them in a “family album” on my computer and backed it up to the cloud. This way, all of us may access them anytime we like. The best part is that I no longer have to store bulky photo albums and/or boxloads of old photos.

Decluttering your home is just the first step. Keeping your home organized and decluttered is where the real challenge comes in. With a little self-discipline, you can train yourself to take the extra step to return an item to it’s “home” immediately after you use it.

Shift your mindset to simplicity and incorporate simple living into your daily life. Remember, less is more. More time, more space, more peace. I am doing this because it makes our life better. Everything in our home enriches our life. A side benefit, which is huge, is that our children will be eternally grateful to us for having the foresight to create a simple life so that they won’t have a huge mess on their hands when our time comes. Hopefully this will help you get started and in my next post, I’ll explore this topic in more detail.

Updated: 18 April 2024