minimalism – Dawn Lupul

A sunny corner with nothing in it is appealing to the eye and the soul

You may have heard of the practice of minimalism. The concept can be found in ancient religious groups from Buddhism to Christianity where there is reference to denouncing personal possessions to achieve spiritual gain and focus. More recently, minimalism was popularized in the 1960’s in the art world, specifically in New York with a move towards simpler trends in music, art and design.

At its core, minimalism is a move away from a consumer-driven mindset to one of simplicity. The insatiable need to have more and more has led to two-income households, children who rarely see their parents, and a desire to have at least as much or more than your neighbours do. It has been promoted by advertisers for years and has become ingrained in the modern world.

Accomplishing things feels good. Making lists, checking off the tasks as they are completed – all of this gives a sense of satisfaction. But why?

Is that all there is to life? Getting things done and then planning more things to do?

Of course there are actions that need to be taken everyday. From the mundane to the unusual, life is a series of tasks and motion.

Is the movement forward though or just in circles?

I am making a concerted effort not to accomplish anything, and in so doing I hope to get everything I need. Not everything that I want, but everything that I need. There is a big difference.

Life is a series of experiences, not accumulations. I don’t need more stuff. I don’t need newer and better and bigger stuff.

I want to get rid of all of my stuff. Well, some of it anyways. Just the things that weigh me down.

It’s the doing that I want, not the having. The memories that I build with friends and family are what I will cherish to the last day I am here.

The stuff? Not so much.

So here’s to a slightly more minimalistic lifestyle and all of the freedom that I hope it brings!

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