Living in NYC has its perks. It also has its limits. I often find myself watching House Hunters, angry (jealous is more like it) at the requirements home owners have, because my life is so very different. Space is at a premium here. There just isn’t room in our apartment for multiple bathrooms and guest rooms. And don’t get me started on stainless steel appliances…
Reflecting upon my reactions, I realize that living in NYC requires a certain amount of a minimalist lifestyle in your blood if you want to survive. I’m sure this is the reason I was drawn to Joshua Becker’s blog Becoming Minimalist. And why I picked up a copy of his book Clutterfree with Kids.
Full disclosure, I can’t remember when I bought the book. I happened upon it one day after turning on my Kindle. That should give you an idea of the clutter in my life…
This short book describes the benefits of living with fewer things, focusing your energy on the things that matter most, and making intentional parenting decisions for you and your family. Becker makes the point throughout the book that living with less stuff does not mean living with no stuff. Rather the process of surrounding yourself with items that are useful and needed means you actually use your belongings, not just organize them for some other time (that may never come because you forget said objects even exist). Also by choosing to highlight specific items in your home that have personal meaning for you and your family, you are consciously reminding yourself of important memories, curating your life as if in a museum. Intentionally.
That word “intentional” is used throughout the book. So often I read about “intentional parenting” and I strive to be an intentional parent. Who doesn’t? One way to achieve this is by modeling behaviors for our kids. And it’s unlikely that PJ will understand the need for fewer toys at 2 years. However, hopefully I can help her get the concept - when she knows how to imagine and to play make believe, when she can tell fantastic stories and realize it is a lot easier to clean up when there aren’t as many stuffed toys taking over her play area.
Possibly the biggest takeaway is the financial freedom that comes from owning less. Being more mindful with our purchases could mean more money for experiences - Broadway shows, vacations, trips to museums. And, yes, one day maybe owning a home with stainless steel appliances. In the meantime, offloading books and items I don’t use (he suggests purging your own possessions before tackling your partner’s and kids’ things) will give us more space in our lives, not just our apartment.
My favorite line from the book was about having less and being able to focus on creating a community. “Friends from your birthing class.” These friends of mine, who have changed my life forever, and I can’t imagine my life without, are part of my community, my legacy. That is so much more important than the number shoes in my closet.
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