“Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” – Lao Tzu

I think this is a great quote to describe my rebirth into a minimalist lifestyle.  I had been carrying around so much stuff for so long, and I was so wrapped up in the things I would need when I moved out on my own, that when I realized I didn’t need all that stuff to be happy, healthy, or productive, it was like seeing for the first time.  I found that it was so easy to cast off things I had been carrying around for years, and I was surprised at how good it felt to shed so many physical objects and my intangible need to need.

I realized that I already had what I needed — and much, much more than I needed.  By being content with the things I already have, and by getting rid of the things I don’t need, I’m much less stressed than I used to be.  I have a long way to go, but I am sure I will continue on this minimalist journey.  It feels too good — I can’t imagine going back to clutter.

I think Lao Tzu had it right — by being content with what I have, rejoicing in the way things are, and realizing that there is nothing lacking, I feel like I have more than I ever did before.

What are some of your favorite minimalist words to live by?