While I’m the last person on the planet that leads a minimalist lifestyle, I’m completely enamored with people who are able to live abundant lives with less.  There are people who are able to live in tiny homes and when I say tiny, I mean 100 square feet or less.  This video shows you what I’m talking about.

While I don’t see Mike and I living in a tiny house (too many dogs), I do see myself learning to live with less.  In my heart of hearts I know that’s the way to go, but I can’t bring myself to part with my stuff yet.  I must say I’m much better at using what I have and very grateful for all I have, but let’s be honest, most of us swim in excess most of the time.

This is a topic I’ve written about before and while I have improved in some areas, I find myself returning to old habits.  Lately, though, I feel incredibly frustrated and tired when all I want to do is find the tape measure (and we have 5), but for some unknown reason it’s nowhere to be found.  I know my problem is a combination of organization issues and too much stuff.

While there are several areas I need to work on, one I’m particularly motivated to work on is my clothing.  I’m not sure why, but I’m not asking why, I’m just running with it. 😉  I became aware of Project333 through Courtney Carver’s blog, Be More With Less.  Project 333 is a minimalist fashion challenge that invites you to dress with 33 items or less for 3 months.  There are basic rules (and I like rules):

“The Basics

• When: Every three months (It’s never too late to start so join in anytime!)
• What: 33 items including clothing, accessories, jewelry, outerwear and shoes.
• What not: these items are not counted as part of the 33 items – wedding ring or another sentimental piece of jewelry that you never take off, underwear, sleep wear, in-home lounge wear,  and workout clothing (you can only wear your workout clothing to workout)
• How: Choose your 33 items, box up the remainder of your fashion statement, seal it with tape and put it out of sight.
• What else: consider that you are creating a wardrobe that you can live, work and play in for three months. Remember that this is not a project in suffering. If your clothes don’t fit or are in poor condition, replace them.” — Project333
  

Not only am I looking forward to room in my closet, but not having to waste time deciding what to wear everyday.  I’ve made my list of 33 items and surprisingly most of what I wear on a regular basis in on that list.  I’ll report back in 3 months with my experience and observations.

Is there an area of your life that you’re trying to streamline and simplify?

We’re thinking that tiny houses would mean tiny dogs and we’re not tiny.  So that idea’s out!