We all (or most of us) are seeking joy and abundance in our lives. We want to devote time and energy to the people and activities we love. We want a life that is full and fulfilling.
But sometimes, we get off track. It’s easy to do. There are a lot of distractions in this world after all, and often the “abundance” we seek takes the form of stuff we buy – and we buy a lot of stuff. According to some estimates, the average U.S. household contains 300,000 items. For many people, keeping track of and maintaining that much stuff equals a lot of time, money, and stress. Joy, not so much.
As professional organizers, we see the stress and anxiety that an abundance of stuff in one’s home can create. Courtney Carver puts it concisely: “Our homes are not containers for stuff but rather a place for love and connection.” We’d add that our homes are also where we rest and recharge, spaces where we can take refuge from the chaos of the world.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your home and your life, maybe it’s time to redefine what “abundance” means to you so you can feel more joy.
You could begin to redefine abundance by examining your relationship to the stuff in your home. What is needed? What is loved? What is simply excess?
And then ask yourself: What do I really want more of?
- Space?
- Time?
- Freedom?
- Travel?
- Homecooked meals with friends or family?
Your answer can be anything – it’s yours.
Start with the stuff, and see how this process can be applied to other aspects of your life.
What is loved?
What is needed?
What is simply excess?
When you have an abundance of what truly matters to you, joy comes much more easily.