He's back again! This guy's never been at a loss for words ... Jonathan presents six more traveling light brainstorms today. If you missed the first three sessions, they're here, there, and yonder.
1. Digitize,
Digitize, Digitize (Part 1) - It has been wonderful
to scan old documents, cards, letters, and miscellaneous files. By
archiving them in multiple places, we can reduce the paperwork we have
and refer to them at any point. We especially enjoyed putting old greeting
cards with the memories folder mentioned in our last session. What a great way to refer
back to encouraging words and support from family and friends.
2. Digitize,
Digitize, Digitize (Part 2) - Whether you have
photographs or slides, these take up space and likely are rarely looked
at. A scanner can backup your photographic
memories. Now our photos are preserved electronically and can easily be
used as a personalized screen saver or loaded into a digital photo frame.
3. Digitize,
Digitize, Digitize (Part 3) - In October 2013,
Amazon launched Kindle MatchBook. This service allows you to convert
some books previously purchased through Amazon to a Kindle eBook format
for under $3 a piece. It's worth considering transferring your bookshelf
onto a Kindle or similar device. Additionally, with the convenience of
Netflix, you can quickly request a favorite movie. This can allow you to
cull some rarely watched DVDs from your collection.
4. Clothing,
a simplicity treasure trove - We could do a whole
session on this topic alone, but suffice it to say this is an excellent
place to apply simplicity principles. How many t-shirts do you actually
need? It can be eye-opening to
actually count how many items you have in your wardrobe. If you're finding
it difficult to part with items, you might find it useful to put them in a
bag and put the date on a piece of paper with the clothes. If months go by, the items aren't seasonal, and you haven't even thought of those outfits,
they probably don't need to continue to take up your precious space.
5. This
is a joint effort - We're exceedingly grateful that we
both got bit by the "simplicity bug" together and have been able
to partner together through this process. Being able to know that we
support one another without judgment when it comes to deciding whether to
remove or keep an item has been wonderful and has enriched our marriage.
6. Find
the right balance for you - The terms
"minimalism" or "simplicity" mean different things to
different people. One author sleeps on a futon on the floor as her way of pursuing a minimalist lifestyle. We won't be doing that
any time soon. The ways we express simplicity in our lives looks different
from theirs, and it will look different from yours. That's OK and that's a
good thing.
* * *
2 Questions from Linda
The technology stuff or the clothing. Which are you ready to wade into?
What's the first thing you want to do?
The technology stuff or the clothing. Which are you ready to wade into?
What's the first thing you want to do?
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