Things I’ve changed this year:
- I added a bunch of mail filters.
- I don’t use a computer at home. I keep an eye on my Inbox (and occasionally browse the web) with my iPad.
- We don’t turn our TV on unless we’re watching something with undivided attention.
- We replaced all of our big squishy furniture with smaller, more designed, mid-century inspired pieces. After returning from Japan, all of our old furniture looked and felt ridiculous.
- I carry less. I replaced my wallet with a money/card clip that’s small enough for my front pocket. I reduced my keychain to two keys (home and office) zip tied together. I don’t carry headphones anymore, because…
- I listen to much less music. Music (and film) can have a noticeable emotional effect on me. I decided my music was encouraging emotions I didn’t care for, namely anticipation, aggression, and self-admiration.
- I’ve been trying to cook more. Even though cooking is impossible.
- I’ve been eating much better. I had already given up coffee and soda a couple years ago, but Rachel’s made some improvements. 🙂
- I’ve been going to bed before midnight. And usually waking up before 10AM on weekends.
- I unsubscribed from Google Alerts. Way too much noise to be useful.
- I’ve been much more disciplined in avoiding and ignoring pointlessly negative voices. I’m lucky that it doesn’t happen often, but when I catch someone being particularly nasty to me, I use it as a cue to do something nice for someone I love.
- I’ve thrown out almost everything. My media cabinet is finally in order, with a modem, AirPort, Mac Mini, Xbox, and a few remotes. My closet now contains about 20 AA t-shirts, socks, boxer briefs, 12 collared shirts, 4 Marc by Marc Jacobs jeans, 3 suits, a tie rack, some bags, and some shoes. I have 9 books on my shelf, 3 cameras, and a small box of miscellanea. I live with a chef, so I have no idea what the fuck is in my kitchen — except for my Ove Glove. Having stuff blows. Liquidity is the new luxury!
Nice work David. I purged “stuff” about two years ago and the only problem I have is explaining to people who visit my apartment that I didn’t just move in, I just don’t need a bunch of meaningless stuff…happiness comes from friends, family, relationships, and creativity…not what today’s advertisements say you need.