Have you ever watched the show Tiny House Nation on the FYI channel? It’s addictive but I’m not sure why. Part of it is the design of the tiny house. Another is certainly the curiosity about how a family of any size will fit into less than 500 square feet? For me, it’s watching the process of how each person in the family makes their lives tiny by parting with their things. It gets you thinking as to whether or not you could do it.
As a professional organizer, we practice a concept called intentionality. Specifically, what is your intention by organizing your home, work space, etc.?
Is it to live more comfortably without clutter?
Is it to save money by spending less on things and more on experiences?
It can be all those things. But having a clearly stated intention is key bringing order to your life.
Most of the tiny house shows will have a segment showing families paring down their current possessions to fit into their new abode. Difficult decisions are made because families have committed to living in a tiny house–you don’t get more committed than having somebody build one for you. So, if it comes down to two favorite items, you make the tough call on what to keep because of your commitment. You can do the same in your home, even if you are not downsizing your space.
How? Write down the type of life you imagine living with less clutter, less stuff.
How do you spend your free time? More time out of the house doing things rather than cleaning?
What do your closets look like? Can you find a hanger now? Can you find things easily?
What about your bank account? Does your paycheck go a little farther because you’re not buying things you won’t wear?
Now, you might not have the commitment of paying for a tiny house to be constructed for you. But you can make the commitment in writing to live a certain way. And if you can’t picture it in your head, find photos of tiny homes and think about the commitment those people made. Think about how you would like to live a life that’s less about things and more about the experiences that matter to you. And every time you have a decision on getting rid of things, remember your intention and then act accordingly.
One last thing. People don’t move into tiny houses without making the decision to do that first. You can live in a tiny house within your current home. Just make that same decision.
If you would like some help clarifying your intention, give me a call at 508-246-6120.
