The Secret of Happiness

“The secret of happiness, you see, is not in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less” Socrates. The older I get, the more I realize:

1. I don’t need more ‘stuff’.

2. I don’t have room for more ‘stuff’.

3. ’Stuff’ does not bring me joy.

Several years ago, I started reading about minimalism. It does not necessarily mean what you think it means. Joshua Becker of Becoming Minimalist offers this definition: “Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things that bring you joy and the removal of those that do not.” There are so many little tidbits about making living simpler. It does NOT mean you just have one chair in an empty room and one outfit for the week. It just means that everything you have and buy should be intentional. Not a gathering of ‘stuff’.

AKA, the simple life. I live in the old homestead (some parts over 200 years old) and just ADORE all the old stuff. It isn’t just stuff to me, it’s memories. We have a closet that I refuse to edit, as it still has names of my uncles and dad in it from when they were kids. We have a catch all set of drawers that my pop-pop used for tools and junk. The smell alone of old machinery is enough that I refuse to touch it. No, I am not hoarding stuff, but memories that bring me joy, instead.

I generally shop at SalVal for clothing and bags, baskets, furniture etc. The thought of memories attached to them fills my soul. However, I also only buy certain things. I generally do not ‘stock up’ on things that I know I will not use. I put them on the list when they are almost finished (shampoo, cleaning products, etc.). If something does not serve a purpose, I donate it.

I enjoy the little things, and having little things. Joy to me is finding the perfect little basket to store MORE books or a handmade sweater. Is it that simple? To me, the answer is yes.

This photo is my attic. It is filled with things that are precious to me. It is my place of wonder. Of memories, of joy.

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Journal Prompts

• What makes you happy? Brings you joy?

• Are there areas in your life that you need to declutter?

• Do people see you when they walk in your home? Room?