Tough question about going "extreme" with minimalism/simple living

[iris lilies]

I get how you would want to do this and probably can if you put your mind to it. But the part of minimalism I don't get is giving away possessions you need (your bed) and then spending money on a foldable mattress. Isn't it simpler and more pure to keep the few things you actually want/need, than going out and buying the minimalist version?

Actually, a mattress IS simpler as this discussion shows. It's much simpler t move a foldable mattress than a big ole bed frame box springs, and typical mattress.

of course minimalism can be carried to extremes, but that seldom happens in North America. The converse is far more likely.

[pony mom]

I often think that if I was unfortunate enough to lose everything I own in a fire or disaster, there is little I would replace. Clothing, HABA, some furniture, of course I'd need these things, and I could easily live without most of the other stuff. But would I be happy? I don't think so. Part of me wants to live extremely simply; the other part likes having things around to admire and enjoy.

There's probably a happy medium for you without trying to "keep up with the minimalists". If you're having trouble deciding whether to keep or get rid of your canoe, you shouldn't decide that right now. At some point it'll become clear and you'll do it without hesitation.

[Ultralight]

HABA?

[awakenedsoul]

I'm doing some of the things you mention. I've been car free for the past year. It's worked out fine. I've enjoyed it. I tried going car light for a year before doing it. Since my mom passed away, I will be picking up her car in the near future. It will be nice to have a car with low mileage, that is in excellent condition. Sometimes it's a drag not having a vehicle when I need to go somewhere like the vet, the doctor, or to visit someone several hours away. I've paid friends to take my dogs to the dog kennel, and paid shuttle services to take me to the airport. I've walked my dog to the vet in the hundred degree heat, even though we had the first appt. in the morning. I've learned that I can do it if I have to, but I'd like to have a car for those situations. I will probably still ride the bus most of the time, to save money.

I spend a lot of time with my dogs. I enjoy their company, and we go for walks every day. They spend most of their time sleeping, anyway. I also meditate daily. I've done that for thirty years, though. It's made a big difference in my life. I like having time to read, write, study, and practice my music. Sometimes I get a little lazy. I can take a nap if I'm tired. It's also convenient being able to go to the gym and take advantage of the facilities.

I think whatever makes you happy is best. Many people won't understand what you're doing. They might compare themselves to you, and tell you that you're too extreme. A lot of people get agitated when they find out that I retired early. I read ERE and that inspired me. I don't tell people anymore. I am still auditioning, and would love work in my field, but there are less opportunities for women my age. I still train and prepare, because it challenges and inspires me.

[Tammy]

Google tells me that HABA is "health and beauty aids", although this is the first time I've heard of that acronym.

[ToomuchStuff]

Actually, a mattress IS simpler as this discussion shows. It's much simpler t move a foldable mattress than a big ole bed frame box springs, and typical mattress.

of course minimalism can be carried to extremes, but that seldom happens in North America. The converse is far more likely.

Then rather then get rid of the whole thing, and getting new, it might be easier to reuse ones mattress, and make a Murphy bed where you use wall space for it and regain your floor space when not using it.

[pony mom]

Google tells me that HABA is "health and beauty aids", although this is the first time I've heard of that acronym.

That's it, sorry.

[Ultralight]

awakenedsoul:

Thank you for sharing! I like your style.

[awakenedsoul]

awakenedsoul:

Thank you for sharing! I like your style.

Thanks, UltralitAngler.

[freshstart]

. A lot of people get agitated when they find out that I retired early. I read ERE and that inspired me. I don't tell people anymore. I am still auditioning, and would love work in my field, but there are less opportunities for women my age. I still train and prepare, because it challenges and inspires me.

because they are jealous! enjoy it, that's like reaching one of the highest goals of frugalism/simplicity!