Yup, it's not Monday... but what's in a name? ;) Feels like Monday to me!
Minimalist... what does that mean?
My definition of minimalism is thoughtfully designing my life so that everything/everyone I interact with brings me joy. Does that mean I'm always happy? Hellz no! However, when something/someone is consistently adding anything other than joy to my life (stress, anger, frustration, depression, anxiety, stinky farts) I change my world so that I interact with that thing/person less and eventually remove it/them from my life completely.
Of course there are parts of my life that I don't truly love... and I've decided that removing them from my life would cause as much stress as keeping them. In those instances I've decided to change my perspective so at I can find a way to appreciate that part of my life. And that appreciation gives me joy.
It's always changing. I'm always reassessing, asking questions, and seeking answers that often yield new questions. All in the pursuit of equilibrium. It's kind of like limits in calculus... something I'm always reaching towards, and I can get infinitesimally close to, yet never meet. THIS realization used to cause me much stress... until I changed my perspective.
Life is a journey... once you reach the destination, life is over. Enjoy the journey... all the bumps, twists and turns. Choose your road wisely... though you can only see it's beginning... be prepared to change course when things aren't right. If you can't find a crossroad, make your own! That's my new perspective.
Here are some minimalist inspired blog posts that have helped me find the road that brings me the most joy.
Zen Habits - The Elements Of Living Lightly
The Minimalists - Consumption Is Not The Problem
Living Well Spending Less - Why I Took My Kids' Toys Away
