I have recently moved out of a large house in Silicon Valley to a bedroom in the East Bay. I hear this is called “downsizing”. As I packed and moved my stuff and now unpack it all, I’ve discovered that downsizing means more than simply getting rid of things so you can fit it all into a smaller space. Downsizing is about letting go of parts of your life that no longer fit who you are now.
As I packed my belongings in the old house, I culled objects, mementos and even books that felt too heavy. Not heavy in mass, heavy in energy. Objects I’ve kept for thirty years because they reminded me of a special time or an activity I enjoyed. Books that I love but I know I’ll never read again. Clothes for the person I was, not clothes for the person I am.
Now I am unpacking in my new, smaller, simpler space and realize I have more to let go of. I don’t want to worry about where I’ll store my great-grandmother’s salt and pepper shakers anymore, or my dead friend’s tea cups. I don’t want vintage dresses crowding my closet. I don’t need any furniture other than my bed, my dresser and my writing desk with one chair.
To get to this place of simplicity takes extra thought and honesty and a willingness to look directly at my self and ask…
Who am I now?
For almost thirty years I was Rhia’s caregiver. My entire life revolved around her needs. But now… what are my needs?
Also, what do I want?
Asking what you need is just a start but if you stay there, you’re limiting yourself. Discovering what you want opens the doors and windows of your life and lets fresh ideas and opportunities enter.
While unpacking my belongings, I’ve focused on what I want in my life.
More freedom. More exploration. More learning. More art.
Do these items help make my wants a reality, or are they tied to the past?
Then I look at the boxes still waiting to be opened.
Do I really want any of it?