Culling the Hoard

I recently moved for the thirteenth time in my life. I had plenty of help, but this means I have physically touched every single piece of my property in the last month. That's a lot of things. Moving has reminded me that without intention I can easily become a mild hoarder and too sentimental. I can have a scarcity mentality and look at such a long-term picture of my life, you'd think I was a prepper too.

But being in this new space has made me remember how much happier I am when I have a smaller footprint to maintain. When I have smaller territory, I am a better steward. I clean better. I am more efficient with my time. I am calmer.

To shrink my hoard I have to make a lot of decisions. I have to let go with gratitude of some of the old things I've cherished, trusting that I will be able to again find things that I love when I actually need them. Letting go of things I don't currently need in a spirit of trust and generosity toward the community is a native value I desire to propagate in my life. (Check out Neither Wolf Nor Dog if you want to learn more). I've been reading The Lazy Genius again, reminding myself how to start with what matters most, remove what's in the way, and embrace my season. She's a great trainer for simplicity.

Don't hear me criticizing those who value tangible things. I, too, have often found comfort and joy in objects that inspire me. I am only saying that for myself, today, the direction of growth is pruning.