Are You A Minimalist? What Do You Own Or Don't Own That Gives You Contentment?

When I started living simply, in according to my values, I was shocked to discover there was a movement in the states called Voluntary Simplicity that dealt with the same issues.

I formed a Voluntary Simplicity support group in the city where I lived which lasted over eight years. Now it is twenty-five years later and “Minimalism” has replaced Voluntary Simplicity.

I am not a Minimalist in that I don’t aim to have nothing. The principle we offered and shared in our support group was more about following your heart, discovering who you really are, what you really want and are passionate about - and then have the “things” you need, if any, to support that. There is no judgement about what that passion is. It could be sailing around the world - in which case a large, good quality, safe boat would be idea. That is appropriate, not a bad thing!

All that said, I live simply still, yes. The tools of my trade or passions are my computer, paint, cooking utensils and my electric keyboard/piano. These objects support the graphic design and marketing I do to promote the services and products I offer, the visual art I love to create, the authentic Indian cooking classes I give, and the jazz piano I love learning to play.

I don’t have a TV, nor a car, nor many apps on my cell phone. The way I live continues to serve my value of having time for self-care, reflection, creativity, and connection with nature. These are not just activities I enjoy. They are values and principles I believe are important for healthy conscious living.

I offer this as food for thought, support and inspiration.​

What items are most important for your glee, nourishment and purpose? ​

If you are on a quest to live simply and in accordance with your values, I invite you to read all about how I have been consciously living simply for 25 years (and since 2006 in Mexico) and the inspiring, encouraging story of my journey to get there in my memoir: Calling Myself Home: Living Simply, Following Your Heart and What Happens When You Jump.