Having too much stuff might sound like an oxymoron to some people, but the reality is that too much of anything can be a bad thing. This is pretty much the central maxim of minimalism!
What you learn as a minimalist is that the more you cut back on unnecessary ‘stuff’ and clutter, the less stress you have, the freer you become, and the more you can appreciate the few items that matter to you.
But what is ‘too much? Take a look at this checklist, and let’s find out together if you fall into this category.
You Dread the Thought of Cleaning Surfaces
Isn’t it time you dusted the shelf in your bedroom? If the very thought of that is starting to make your stomach do summersaults, then you have too much on that surface. It should take just a couple of seconds to wipe down a surface. Otherwise, you’ll spend your whole life tidying!
You’re Considering Moving to Fit Your Things In
This is something a lot of us do without a second thought. But if you’re buying an entirely new house just to store more of your items, then this is something of a worrying sign. You should be able to keep everything you own in a small flat – let alone a house!
But the Thought of Doing it is Terrifying
Think about moving house right now. Is this something you would be able to do on your own without too much stress? Or would you have no option but to spend a lot of money on a removals company?
If the latter is true, then this is a very clear demonstration that your possessions are limiting your freedom. You should be able to just up and leave to go wherever the wind takes you – your belongings shouldn’t trap you in one part of the world!
You Have Boxes Under the Bed and on the Wardrobe
This doesn’t sound like a big deal, but it has a big psychological impact on how big and spacious a room feels. It’s important to include space in your home to let it breathe, and this is an important space that you should prioritize.
You Can’t Perform a Mental Stock Take
Run through everything you own in your head.
Done yet? If you find this virtually impossible, you have more stuff than you can keep track of. Time for some of it to go!
