S.T.R.E.A.M.L.I.N.E. – L is for Limits

L – Limits

In order to keep on top of clutter, we need to set ourselves limits. These limits relate to our stuff – to be in control of what we have, what is coming in and what is going out.

Why did our (grand)parents not have this problem? In days gone by, people were often limited by what they could afford and what was available. They were limited by what was in season, or by what the local craftsmen could provide. Things were made to last,  the need for the latest up to date gadget was not an issue. Then in the sixties, consumerism was given a massive boost – people started to have more disposable income and possessions showed success. A bigger car (or maybe even a second car), a bigger house, foreign holidays – it quickly became the norm.

Globalisation, mass production and cheaper imports gave us access to so much more stuff. We tend to buy new before the old has given up the ghost to stay on trend but that means we often have too much.

Therefore, we need to impose limits on our stuff. Limits should be applied to almost everything: clothes, CDs, make up, magazines, art & craft supplies, kitchen utensils, gadgets etc. And what about books? How many books do we have on our shelves we will never read again? No need to hold onto them, keep a limit on the amount you have.

If you have a minute, watch  on reading books is a thing of the past 

Limits are of course variable from person to person, household to household but if we limit our physical stuff and focus more on experiences, a whole new world will open up.

If you like to read more on stuff vs experience, I can highly recommend Stuffocation by James Wallman, who researched materialism and concludes that there has to be more to life, so let’s try experientialism instead.

Missed last week’s blog? Click the link : M is for Modules

Next Week: I is for If one comes in, one goes out

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