Discover how possessing fewer things paves the way for your contentment and freedom. Find out pointers for an easy and joyful transition to a new lifestyle.
Before immersing into the depths of a minimalist lifestyle, Fumio Sasaki tells several stories about people who transformed their lives by disposing of things they used to consider paramount. Most of them had too many belongings piled up in their apartments for years. But, after becoming minimalists, they kept essentials to a minimum: a single item for decoration, an ascetic set of clothing, and a traditional ‘airy mattress’ as a symbol of Japanese minimalism. Quite often, that’s all they needed. But how do they feel about their minimalist lifestyle? The answer can surprise you: they start seeing themselves more clearly by getting rid of things.
In the beginning, being happy with minimal belongings is mind-blowing because many people are programmed to evaluate each other by the solidity of their wealth.
Undeniably, we are afraid of uncertainty, and possessions’ accumulation is nearly a reflex. We tend to believe that having more things will preserve stability or tell other people something like, “Hey, that’s me — the biggest fan of bizarre beer cans! Can you see HOW MUCH I love my stuff?!” You may protest that attachment to material items isn’t harmful, but here’s a thing: when filling our lives with goods, we often infuse them with false meaning. Thus, we think of them as the only source of genuine happiness. And a significant number of soulful pleasures are left in the cold.
Where can this material-based happiness lead us? After a while, we become less and less satisfied with what we have. Further, we start assessing the possessions of people we know and comparing our joys with theirs. There’s no need to say that the less wealthy you are, the more pathetic you feel in a world of tangible delight. Thus, freeing space, we dispose of noise and imposed ideas of pure happiness.
After exploring this candid, apple-pie-order, and relaxing summary, you’ll strive to revise your relations with things and your perception of happiness. Moreover, you’ll learn working techniques helpful to kick the habit of cluttering. So even a tiny thought about comparing yourself to others or diminishing your accomplishments won’t visit you after this minimalist voyage. Explore a secret recipe for a happy life in rational Zen!
Did you know? Researchers found that an average person will spend approximately 4,000 hours looking for things out of place during their lifetime.
second key point
Before becoming a minimalist
People gravitate toward minimalism from the very beginning of their lives. Think about it: no one is born owning dozens of garden gnomes or guitar picks.
"Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism" explores the transformative power of minimalism in our modern lives. Fumio Sasaki, a self-proclaimed minimalist, shares his personal journey of decluttering and simplifying his possessions, revealing the profound impact it had on his happiness and overall well-being. Through practical tips and thought-provoking insights, Sasaki inspires readers to let go of material excess and embrace a more intentional and fulfilling lifestyle.
Who should read Goodbye, Things
Individuals seeking to declutter their lives and embrace minimalism.
Those interested in learning about the Japanese approach to minimalism.
People looking for inspiration to simplify their living spaces.
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Do you find yourself staring at your computer for long minutes, unaware of time slipping by? Do you enter a room and suddenly cannot remember why you stepped in the first place? Is it a herculean task for you to sit through ten pages of a book without reaching for your phone? If yes, your focus needs some work and fast.
Actually, yours is not a unique situation. Many adults like you have issues concentrating on a given task. However, in this fast-paced world of ours, you can’t afford to be not focused at all times. Thankfully, this article comes to your rescue! With the tips and tricks from Hyperfocus by Chris Bailey, you will get in the top percent of folks who have mastered the art of concentration.