Downsizing Commandments – #7

I am running a bit behind in my posts so playing catch up over the next few days….. here is Downsizing Commandment # 7 ……

“Learn to love and appreciate the benefits of minimalism”:  in order to do this, you have to review some of the earlier commandments.  Focus only on the best, the most beautiful, the most elegant, or quite simply, whatever makes you happy.   Think about “less is more”, which really means less to clean, less to worry about, less to replace, less to inventory and insure. less to lose, pack and finance.  In our times of smaller and smaller apartments and living spaces for most of us, one of the greatest luxuries we may have is simply space.  Do not feel the need to fill all the space; use it luxuriously and keep it open, calm and gracious, highlighting only a few of your most favorite and treasured possessions.

I have recently seen a door hung with a collection of necklaces, beautifully displayed, that looked like an art exhibition in a very small place.  The collection served as storage as well as a living testimony of the occupant’s style and history. Although there were many necklaces, they were displayed as one, neatly and organized. Another way of highlighting a few special pieces is to consider having them out one at a time so they receive full attention.   This way you can create dynamic vignettes and appreciate what you love.

Minimalism is simplicity.  It can be as luxurious and rich as you insist.  It can be as comfortable as your favorite chair.  What it means is that you have attained a level in your life and awareness that you are focused, organized, clear in your goals and aspirations, having cleaned up the loose ends of a life lived, and confident with the present as you look with hope to your future.  It is like taking a deep breath and finally admitting to yourself that “yes. I have achived this much and now that I am at this point, I can go forward.”  Good luck!