I have pondered this question ever since I saw it.
Actually, I have lived a “not-too-few possessions” life all my years. Now, presenting this question, I feel it’s going to be a bit hard adjusting but if I eventually succeed the reward will be satisfaction, fulfillment and a grateful heart. So I will agree that one step at a time does it better.
Practically, my daily existence would become more intentional, less rushing, slower living. Right now, I feel like 24 hours is no longer enough for me to keep up with my schedule, even with all the rushing. There are just too many things for me to do every day: taking care of my toddler, the house, and my business. All of this consumes my time. I don’t even have time for myself, except when I wake up much earlier. I guess I could do yoga and relax a bit before the day kicks off. I would listen to myself breathe without worrying about “time.”
Back to the question; if I lived with fewer possessions, there would only be a few things for me to worry about. My daily routine would be much lighter. I would have time not just for myself, but also for my family. The stress of cleaning and organizing things every day would lessen. Most importantly, I would have less mental clutter from visual chaos. As a mom, you always see something that needs fixing at home, always arranging but with fewer possessions, you don’t have to arrange all the time. I mean, your eyes wouldn’t constantly see things in disarray, haha! There would be 99% clarity and accessibility.
A whole lot would change in my life most importantly, how I perceive life would take a huge turn, for sure. My priorities would also shift because I would no longer live as though I owned more stuff. My savings would increase because fewer possessions mean less spending.
I would experience freedom. You might be wondering why I say that. Yes! Everyone is attached to their possessions including me. Having less means experiencing emotional, physical, and mental lightness from not being tied to material things. My life would speak about me, not about what I own.
I wouldn’t have to stare at my wardrobe for more than 15 minutes before deciding what to wear. I would have a small, trusted wardrobe where everything fits and serves multiple purposely, a wardrobe of versatility. Getting dressed would be swift.
I think I would be more aware of the things that bring me joy and meaning. I would have time to reflect more easily, because there would be less noise and fewer distractions.
But then, I would have a challenge, my biggest fear: digital consumption might creep in if I’m not mindful, especially because I wouldn’t be doing as much anymore. I might start doom-scrolling without being conscious of it, just like it happened when I was trying to get my husband’s attention.
I would try to stay mindful and disciplined so that I don’t fall into a digital trap. I would keep only the essential apps. It’s time-consuming and money-draining. I’d rather take a walk, read, or do what I love most—writing.
Picturing it, I think this is how my life existence would look like.
