By now we’ve all heard about the minimalist lifestyle. The principle by which you only live with the things you need. Somehow they are free from the desire to buy and accumulate more. I say somehow because try as I might, it is even hard for me (a declutter business owner) to stay away from my go-to clothing stores.
Here is something interesting, research has shown that people only use 20% of what they own 80% of the time. The Pareto Principle, also know as the “law of the vital few,” states that 80% of all effects result from 20% of all possible causes.
Think about our closets. We generally wear only 20% of our clothing 80% of the time. Half of the closet probably fits into the category “I’ll fit back into those outfits one day,” “I’ll wear all those formal dresses at some point,” or “these shirts bring back memories.”
Kitchens are rife with gadgets and appliances that we deem critical for a “one of these days” culinary masterpiece. Honestly how many wooden spoons does it take to make dinner for your family?
It is fascinating to think we only use one in five items that we own. Recognize that 80% of our possessions are in the way and you will more than likely not be at a loss if you let go!
So let’s test this theory with some mindfulness. This week pay attention to how many things in your home you use on a regular basis. Notice how many similar items you own and are not using. Notice if you tend to use one item over another based on it’s quality, beauty, functionality, etc. Over the course of week estimate the percentage of your possessions that you actually used regularly and can justifiably say you need to keep.
Take this mindful experiment a step further the following week and put 50% of items from one room in your house in a few boxes. I’d recommend either the kitchen or your closet. Put the boxes in your storage room for two weeks. During that two week period did you miss any items?
The Pareto Principle is a technique home organizing experts have in their tool belt. I really enjoy helping clients make informed decisions when reducing objects, helping them to recognize that there is more value and life satisfaction with owning the right amount of stuff!
