Feel like you have too much stuff, too much technology, too much consuming? Some studies tout the benefits of focusing on experiences rather than material possessions, offering a stronger influence on positive mental health.

There are two quotes I try to live by, but often fail at because of the consumerism society we live in. But I’ll keep trying and keep remembering these simple reminders:

Mark Twain said, “Civilization is a limitless multiplication of unnecessary necessities.”

We have been brainwashed to believe we need the latest and greatest items.   But there is a price to pay, beyond what we spend in dollars for these unnecessary things.  We work more to buy more.  In a sense we give up our freedom, and do it willingly, because of a bombardment of effective marketing..

Imagine ridding yourself of these shackles, by one simple thought: I have enough. I am at peace with what I have.  I value my interests and loved ones more than the trappings of a consumer society.  This is how I think when I’m mindful, initiating a pause before purchasing, and I’ve never regretted it.  Think of money as not a vehicle to material wealth, but a means toward more freedom, time for hobbies, interests, and travel.

“He who multiplies riches multiplies cares”, wrote Benjamin Franklin in Poor Richard’s Almanac.

The stuff you buy can become your shackles.This age old proverb is as true today as it was centuries ago.  The more items/riches in your life, the more time they chew up.  So before a purchase, ask yourself “Do I need that? Will it bring me joy? Will it pull time from more pleasurable and participatory pursuits, or is it making me a spectator? This article offers more suggestions in moving toward a simpler life.

Do You Really Need It?

We are tricked to believe we need more convenience, when it often that very item leads to more headaches, more time upgrading, fixing, mixed with frustration.

This lesson was driven home to me when I was given a 14 foot boat and motor from a friend after years of only possessing a couple kayaks.  It was a generous gift.  It was also a curse.  First I had to purchase a trailer. Then I had to get a trailer hitch installed on my car.  Next was a license from the state for the motorized vessel and the trailer.

Finally when all was ready, I launched the vessel in an ocean bay, opened up the motor and went zipping to the other side.  And that’s where I stayed.  The motor conked out, and let’s just say I know as much about engines as the far side of the moon. After that trip, the boat has stayed in my side yard, and I’ve gone back to the simplicity of kayaking.  (And I’ve resisted the suggestions from fishing buddies to get a tricked out kayak with a trolling motor, electronics, etc because that would be too much like the boat that caused me grief!)

Here are two other steps I’ve taken to live more deliberately with less expensive gear:

• I use a walk behind mower rather than a riding mower: I like the exercise, and when the mower needs service it fits in the car for transport.
• I traded in my scuba diving stuff and found more enjoyment with the mask and snorkel (and a lot less fussy work.)

Thoreau Perfected the Art

Besides encouraging us to “simplify, simplify” in our domestic life, he carried that over on his multi-state walking excursions.  A blanket, some bread and tea, and a journal to write in were his primary travel belongings.  I don’t travel that sparingly but when I do I try to keep it simple.  On a recent trip to Europe for more than two weeks, I only brought a small carry-on suitcase.  It’s not too hard to find a place to wash your clothes!

“I was rich in sunny days and spent them lavishly,” wrote Thoreau in his journal.  I strive to do the same. Maybe you might try it, too.

In No Will Set You Free,  Michael J. Tougias takes the reader on a journey to live a more deliberate life by setting boundaries and stop people pleasing.