The Values of Tiny Living

There is a growing movement going around that has been labeled tiny Living. While some consider it a passing trend, I would disagree. The research I've done and interviews I've watched of people who have ventured into this movement have shown me that it is stronger than a trend; it's a life style change, a change of mind and a change of heart. A shifting of attitude from the false belief that things will make you happy and content, to the perspective of letting go; holding onto memories and possessions that bring practical or emotional satisfaction not monetary value.

From the bit that I have dabbled in I have to say it is immensely satisfying. As a natural born collector I have a way of becoming attached to things quickly, whether they are necessary or not. The minimalist mindset has helped me to cut down on my amount of consumer waste, as well as put value to the things I really need or love. One result of this way of thinking for me has been a thinned out wardrobe, as well as cutting down on my clutter of useless doo-dads. As a newcomer and explorer to this way of living I have compiled seven things to think about when downsizing, or attempting to "live small".

1: "Tiny" is relative: There is a basic standard for a small or large space, however that standard is subjective. Downsizing can be cleaning out your garage, or selling off extra pieces of furniture. It doesn't have to be moving to a small house.

2: You don't have to get rid of everything: Part of the tiny living mindset is living purposefully, if you love your glass figurine collection more than anything and it makes you happy, keep it, just be aware of what you really value.

3: Sentimental vs practical: This has got to be the toughest one for me. Keeping things purely for sentimental reasons will leave you in a pile of useless stuff. If it doesn't have real emotional or practical value, it doesn't need to be there.

4:Breathing Room: Take the plunge, get started on something. Once you start getting rid of things you'll be able to appreciate the breathing room it leaves.

5:Be realistic: Don't try to squeeze yourself into a smaller space than you'll be happy with. At the same time give your self some credit, you may find you'll adapt quickly once your living in a small space. Balance your lifestyle with your space, but remember, the bigger space you have, the more stuff you'll find to fill it.

6: Cost: Going small can be a huge relief on the wallet. Many people have built their own tinny homes with only a few thousands dollars. While others have opted for buying a tiny home already built. Regardless of your preference, these homes are far more realistic than a regular house to pay off and own outright for the future.

7: Connecting with like minded people: The tiny living movement has grown into a national community. Going small will bring you into contact with other people who live by similar values. Connecting with others who have been or are going through a situation similar to yours can be a huge motivation for downsizing yourself.

The beauty of the Tiny Living movement is that it can be as big a change in lifestyle or as small a change as you want it to be. Downsizing can mean going through all your closets every year and preventing them from overflowing with useless things. Or it can mean selling your house and buying a tiny home, its up to you.


Enigma