A minimalist dilemna « Back to Group Discussions

[accountclosed15]

I have a problem. I have an executive level job, so I have to dress for work. NO business casual, suits most of the time. I also like variety and texture. I do tend to wear red, navy blue, some black, a little khacki and a dash of hot pink for fun. Clothes are my biggest down fall..do I still qualify as a minimalist if my closet is somewhat full but I do wear what I have and often????

[Paigekitten]

Well I just read an blog post on miss minimalist that said something along the lines that being a minimalist isn't just about having less, it's also about recognizing when we have enough and doing good thing with our excess.   So that would probably be a good measuring stick for those things where we have more then we absolutely need.

[MonkeyPrincess]

I wonder about this, too.

My parents were not hoarders, just very decorated and VERY clean.

My kids joke about me getting rid of stuff, but they couldn't tell me one thing they think we should have but don't. They also recognize its much easier to clean up with no clutter.

They each have their own room and have total say over how much stuff (and what) they keep. I never get rid of their stuff without permission, but absolutely ask if they are done with something if I come across it and think they might be.

My four year old went thru a very large basket of dolls and stuff, sorting into three piles (keep, donate, throw away) all on her own when we cleaned out the toy closet after gift getting this holiday season. No pressure one way or the other.

I'm hoping my approach doesn't land me a bunch of clutterbugs, but so far doesn't seem that way. For sure they are aware its important to me to keep things at a certain level and its obvious that is very different than everyone else, but thinking about it, thats kind of the goal, right? Mindfulness about "stuff"?

Plus, we have ongoing conversations about where that stuff comes from. Like, when we are in Target for underwear or something. And what impact that has...on the people who made it, the way it got here, how it will be used in our house, where it will wind up, etc. And how sometimes its worth buying something we want, even when all those things are weighed out. But again, thats kind of the goal...mindfulness.

Sorry if this doesnt makes sense, Im on my phone due to a broken laptop...

[elefante]

You don't need to be a possessionless monk to believe in a minimalist lifestyle. I believe you can be a modern minimalist by simply ridding yourself of excess. If what you have are the necessary tools of your life, and that is what you need, where does the problem lie? I don't see one.

I will admit that my closet is where I am the most cluttered in life, but every item in every other room serves a purpose. I feel that for me personally, I aim to live a life intentional. Every thing in our home is here because we want it to be. It serves a function. There is usually no "just because" for us, and when there is it is a transitory object. When we are attracted to something and feel the urge to bring it into our home, we allow ourselves to do so, then reflect on what the best outcome is for this object. Inspiration serves a purpose, and we allow ourselves the freedom to ponder on an object and be inspired. 

[accountclosed15]

I have made peace for this New Year. My clothes are an extension of some of my needs (for work) and a little bit of what makes me have some happiness. I have decluttered many other parts of my life, to the point that I can allow for a larger amount of material, clothing that is. I am discerning when I do shop and I am VERY particular but I do so love to look and touch and feel and sometimes, that's all I need. I have decided to make shopping for clothes an experience rather than a necessity. I am in need of some new pants, a jacket and shirts and I went to the personal shopper at Macy's. THAT was a wonderful experience- I admit, I like the fawning over me and the wonderful service. I left with the most glorious light weight wool camel colored tie jacket, a pair of pants and 2 tops. I feel glorious and not as though I need to do it again soon, but it is a more positive experience for me. My goal this year is to enjoy the experience more, no matter what I am doing. Thanks.

[MonkeyPrincess]

Oops! I posted a response to another thread here...

Glad you found a balance that works for you!