Getting Focused On What Really Matters…
In a shocking announcement, John Reese recently shared that he sold everything he owned and was off to travel the world. The only material possessions he had left fit into a backpack he carried with him as he set out on the journey.
You can read the entire letter from JR on John Chow’s blog: Why I Just Sold All My Possessions And Killed My Facebook Account
In another interesting announcement, Michelle MacPhearson shared that she was “downgrading her life” in a blog post titled How To Have Freedom. She talks about possessions as responsibilities, and how we’re killing our own freedom.
I found both of their notes interesting – and inspiring. It really gave me pause for thought, and had me analyzing my own lifestyle choices & goals…
Possessions, Obligations, “Stuff” -and even Habits…
One of the things I learned from my Grandmother, a saying of hers that always stuck with me, is this: the more you have, the more you have to take care of. She spoke from personal experience of course, having much to manage. And while I admired her for that, particularly how well she did it, I took her advice to heart and chose to keep things simple in my own life.
I have a conservative home, drive a paid off car, prefer freedom (time) over money, created a career I love, live below my means, have learned to say “no” without guilt, don’t have or live on a budget, and am debt-free outside of my mortgage.
I’m proud of those things, and glad I’m not a slave to my lifestyle. Or at least to possessions and obligations. There is still plenty of room for improvement in other areas of my life. And those are the things that came to mind for me personally as I was reading the notes from John & Michelle.
The clutter in my mind, and in my life, that holds me back.
As you know from my last post, I’ve been making serious lifestyle changes. I quit smoking 4 weeks ago. I also quit a long-term addiction to diet soda, started eating (much) healthier, and am working out several times a week. All in the same month. These are things that have been on my “want to do” list for years.
Don’t ask me if I feel 100% better for it. I don’t. It’s been a crap month. Change is hard, and withdrawal is cruel. I am just now crossing out of pure torture and into bearable. It’s still really hard to talk about, even.
(Don’t ever let anyone tell you that change is easy.)
I would not put myself through this without a reason. These are the things that hold me back, that truly bother me, that take up space in my head – and keep me from being as happy and as productive as I know I can be. As I want to be.
Some people feel like a slave to their job. Or to their bills. Or to their schedule or routine. I was a slave to my habit. In a big way.
I feel encouraged to push harder than ever to achieve my personal goals. To become the woman I’ve always wanted to be. Physically, mentally, emotionally – and even spiritually. No more wishing, no more feeling like things are just outside my reach, no more doubting myself. If there’s anything I’ve learned from the last 4 weeks of turning my life & routine upside down… it’s that I can do anything.
It boils down to having control. Of yourself, your life, your direction. Being in control means you’re a slave to nothing, and to no one. It means you can do anything you please -anytime. It means there is nothing holding you back, or holding you down.
Control is freedom.
An interesting concept really. Seems like an oxymoron, doesn’t it? But… either you’re in control of it, or it’s in control of you.
Some things I’ve learned from the experience: There is never a perfect time. Just do it. Change doesn’t come easy, you have to force it. It’s going to get bad before it gets better (like the huge mess you make trying to clean out a closet -lol). You have the option of doing nothing at all… and getting stuck exactly where you are.
The Power of Less
John Reese mentioned a book in his letter that inspired him, a book by Leo Babauta titled The Power of Less.
Intrigued by John’s drastic lifestyle change, and the fact that Leo is married and father to six children, I decided to check out the book for myself.
I plugged the title in at Amazon.com, and ended up ordering a set of 4 books from him.
The 4 titles I ordered are:
- The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life
- The Simple Guide to a Minimalist Life
- Zen Habits: Handbook For Life
- Zen To Done: The Ultimate Simple Productivity System
I just got them in last week, so I haven’t had a chance to read any of them yet. The first and last title appeal to me most, but I chose all 4 books a) because Amazon offered a bundle offer, and b) because I thought I just might take a genuine interest in the concept. The back of The Power of Less really says it all:
I have no intentions of selling my home, and in fact am in the process of several major purchases to complete my ideal set-up. But I love the idea of eliminating the unnecessary and focusing on the things that truly matter to me.
I have plenty of “unnecessary” that is a total time-suck, taking up entirely too much space & time in my brain – and causing me personal stress. Both in my business and in my life. Time to let it go and get focused only on the things that matter…
Which begs the question: If you were forced to eliminate everything in your life except what could fit into a single backpack, what would be in yours? I’ve been giving that a lot of thought this week, and not only considering the material possessions – but also thoughts & priorities that should be sorted as well.
Oh- and before I close, I was just checking out Leo’s blog this morning and found a timely post (timely for me!) on the topic of change:
“Change can be a difficult thing. Most people want to change their lives, in some way, but find it difficult to either get started or to sustain the change for very long.” – The Elements of Change
Best,
p.s. I’d love to hear your thoughts on the letters from John & Michelle, the books if you’ve read them, or what your own challenges are at the moment. And I promise you, this will be the last “lifestyle essay” for awhile – we’ll be back to the usual marketing tips & podcasting series here shortly! 
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Lynn, I quit my corporate job at the beginning of June. It was a very good job, but the demands in my life had piled up that it was seriously affecting my family relationships. God intervened and got my attention with this verse:
There is that maketh himself rich, yet hath nothing: there is that maketh himself poor, yet hath great riches. — Proverbs 13:7
When I made the change I thought that I would just shift gears and start working from home. It didn’t work out that way. I had a lot of catching up and healing to do in my home.
Prior to this change, I too, gave up an addiction. It takes about 40 days to get over something you are addicted to or to make serious change. If you can make it through 40 days, you can make it for life.
God bless, Mike
Follow me @mikesmind on Twitter.
I’m on Day 30 – that gives me hope
I understand what you mean about the “catching up”. Change IS hard, and there is definitely a process to it. For me, the process this last month has been more than just a physical challenge – much more a mental and emotional challenge. It took me weeks to see the light at the end of the tunnel, so to speak. I’m just now beginning to feel comfortable in my new skin (instead of completely lost -ha!).
Best to you with your life change & relationships
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
How cool is this? I’ve been reading blogs on minimalism and simplicity for quite some time now and Zen Habits is one of my favorites. It’s interesting how it’s now making its way to the world of internet marketers especially when so many of them have often boasted about their amazingly lavish lifestyles.
My struggle is with putting myself out there to get more of the clients I want so I don’t have to work so many hours every day. Or maybe it’s finding that work that doesn’t feel like work? Hmmmm…
Anyway, I look forward to this journey of lifestyle change you’ll be taking us on
Follow me @Kimmoy on Twitter.
Interesting indeed!
I think to myself that I should have seen it coming. I worked hard towards what I thought were ideal goals. I reached those goals, and discovered it wasn’t everything I expected it to be. It’s true what they say: Money does not buy happiness.
I won’t say that money isn’t important, or that I don’t still have financial goals. Only that I’m as interested in balance and happiness, if not more so. I’m still on a quest for that perfect combination in my own life, but feeling closer than ever…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Its always the same game, if I don’t have money and work I don’t understand people who quit their high paying, no-money-problem corporate jobs but if I have a high paid job I’d envy people who have more freedom and time for their family and other things in life. The big key is money, if you don’t have any, you can’t really do what you want, i.e. travelling the world, even with just backback…
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Or maybe the big key is: figuring out what YOU want (and need), and focusing on that – regardless of what is labeled “the norm”. I know from experience that the grass is not really greener on the other side, which helps me stay focused on my own life & path. And money, yeah, it makes the world go round for sure. If you know what you want, you can figure out what you need to make it happen, and set your financial goals accordingly…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Good luck and God bless in your journey of change, Lynn.
That last quote sounded too much like me. I’m a world-class expert at both.
One problem with getting past yourself is being so evenly matched. Enlisting the help of others can provide the needed advantage. Here’s to change for all who want it!
Dan
Follow me @DanReinhold on Twitter.
Thank you Dan
*cheers*
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn,
You haven’t heard from me for awhile because I’ve been dealing with my own demons much like you, Michelle, and John.
I for one find it very refreshing to find out that those that I follow and consider my IM role models struggle with the same issues that I feel are holding me back. It is very motivating / inspirational for me to realize that the successful struggle with the same issues as I and have still made their mark on the industry.
Although you end this post by stating this will be the last ‘lifestyle essay’ for awhile, I want you to realize that while you may consider these posts ‘off topic’ there are some of us out here that learn just as much, if not more, from posts like these!
Cheers!
Follow me @crobertdillon.com on Twitter.
Thank you for that – very much appreciated
I’m with you. It’s very refreshing, and incredibly helpful to know I’m not alone in this. The overwhelming support & encouragement everyone shared on my last post was what got me through some of my most difficult moments this past month. Particularly the personal stories of others who had been through the same struggle before me.
I do feel a great sense of relief hearing others I respect and admire saying out loud the very things I’ve been feeling – regarding wealth, happiness and personal fulfillment.
Here’s to us, and conquering our demons!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I love that John did this. It shows courage and self respect to do something that most people want to do but don’t have the guts to. of course everyone’s circumstance is different. But only a person knows what will truly make them happy, and to take a leap of faith to find out what that is my hat goes off to him.
In resemblance to him I think he and I have a lot in common, I don’t mind having things and have a lot of nice things but none of them make you happy unless you are happy.
If I could, If I did not have any small kids, I would love to have small backpack and travel the world.
Hey Jesus, did it right…….with only the clothes on his back and look at the impact he had.
Kudos to John……..
Follow me @elizaashe on Twitter.
Jesus only did that for a few short years, 3 I believe – from the time he was 30 until he died. Prior to that he worked and studied, and prepared himself for it. Good point to keep in mind, I think.
We are all at a different place. While my children are older now, I am just getting grounded in a solid foundation. I finally settled down and bought my home at the age of 35. That’s the reason Timothy Ferris’ book (4HWW) didn’t resonate with me at the time that I read it, and why I’m more drawn to Leo Babauta (married with 6 children) for inspiration in this particular area.
I admire John for his choice too. As I mentioned in my last post, it’s easier to just wish things were different and do nothing – than to step out and make bold change in your life.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I agree Lynn, it is easier to wish than to do nothing because real things only happen with action.
P.S. I,m loving the Lifestyle Essays……..looking forward to more.
Great Post!!
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Lynn, been following you for awhile now and I’m starting to get connected to your way of thinking. Thank you for sharing your heart. My friend Cliff Ravenscraft has a podcast called Pursuing A Balanced Life – It sounds like you’re on track to do just that. I tweeted a few lines from this post. Well done my friend. Keep fighting the good fight.
Follow me @andytraub on Twitter.
Thank you Andy
I just got an iPod Touch and listened to my very first podcast (ever!) yesterday. LOL – funny right? Anyway, appreciate the recommendation. I’ll check it out!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Very thought provoking post, Lynn, thanks.
It’s 100% true- either you control the things around you, or they hold control over you. Everything in your possession has a hidden price in terms of the time it takes to clean, polish, oil, upgrade, and find it!
I’m also making several big changes to my life, so I very much appreciate how you are exiting the torturous stage and entering the bearable stage- KUDDOS!
True – very true.
This bearable phase is a huge relief, LOL. Interestingly I was at a high point in my life – happy, confident, focused, etc – when I chose to make these major changes. Obviously I wouldn’t have had the strength to go into it otherwise. But I didn’t expect to nosedive like I did. Ack!
I have started working out – hard – as a means of working off the excess frustration and negativity. The physical pain from a hard workout takes the focus off the internal pain (withdrawal, depression, anxiety, etc). Earlier this week I headed out to a low impact Body Sculpting class. Turns out I got the time wrong and ended up front & center in a high impact Step Class (ack!). 40 minutes into it, sweating my a** off, I caught my reflection in the mirrored wall at the front of the room… and I was proud of myself. That was the first time I felt good about things, and really realized how far I’ve come and just how much change I’ve made in 4 short weeks.
I’m on the good side of this challenge at least. I look forward to going from “bearable” to “this is my new norm”.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
(Not sure I’m doing this right, as my last post never got posted.)
I gotta congratulate you, woman! Your willingness to really LOOK at your life from the inside out is quite rare. I am 75 years old & “sorting things out” has been my lifelong struggle. My whole life has been an inward journey. I lived in fear…Of not being “enough,” per my mother. But this is about you having the guts/courage to hold yourself accountable…You’ve taken on probably too much at one time…but I know how it is to get sick of the way you are and want to shed all the “baad.” I feel a great kinship to you and your journey! Look forward to seeing you at NAMS!!!
Follow me @skipperholmes on Twitter.
Looking forward to it as well, Skipper
You’re right in that I’ve taken on a lot in the last 6 months. A lot of BIG change. But 2009 was a year of serious personal challenge, bringing me to the point of “enough is enough”. Everything became so amplified, and then impossible, and then hopeless. Not a place I could stay.
If I could tell the whole story, if you guys knew *everything*, you would be absolutely amazed at the transformation that is happening in my life. I am. And I really happy to be where I am at this exact moment in time. Conquering cigarettes alone has had a huge impact. I feel back in control, and able to achieve *anything*…
In a book I’m reading, The Path of Least Resistance, the author talks about this. To paraphrase “you are either controlling the circumstances, or they are controlling you.” A quote from the early chapters:
My entire life has changed dramatically in 4 short weeks.
source:
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Changing is not easy cause things already sip into the mind. I always find it had to change or even try new things.
As Mike said “It takes about 40 days to get over something you are addicted to or to make serious change. If you can make it through 40 days, you can make it for life.” .. I will make myself to change this time.
Thank you Lyn for sharing this wonderful and precious topic here today.
Follow me @jamessamy on Twitter.
Amazing things happen when you force change and stick it out. Tip: the timing will never be right. Pick any time you please and then go for it.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
We should never fear or avoid change. When a door closes a better one opens. In a matter of a few months I exchanged a a whole crowd of clients looking to me for guidance and financial security to a new set of Internet marketing friends, less stress and better health.
That change was mostly out of my control, but it has been the best change ever.
Lynn, I count you as one of those new friends and enjoy watching your continued personal growth and business success. You are on my prayer list for strength in your challenges.
Chris
Follow me @chriscobb on Twitter.
Thank you Chris.
I agree that we shouldn’t fear or avoid change, but we do. I admit that I avoided these particular changes for a long time, out of fear. I knew it would be hard. I knew it would turn my routine and ME upside down – and I really couldn’t afford to be out of sync. Between 2 kids to raise on my own and a business to run, that is. Thankfully everyone has been supportive and understanding – and I’m at a place in my life where I *can* afford the time for myself…
Life has become entirely too fast paced for most of us. Too fast paced to take a moment for things that truly matter, as the time is too full of things that don’t. I look forward to digging in to Leo’s books and really analyzing my true priorities – and where I’m spending my time & energy in relation to those.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Arnie’s parents are forever traveling around the world with a simple backpack each. Right now they have been in Europe for the past 2 months and you can see their travel blog here http://www.klappetrips.com
Hopefully, I’ll get up the courage to rid of my 2 suitcase traveling and join Arn and his family excursions. He really wants to take his 4X4 van over to Mongolia in a couple of years and drive from top to bottom of this country (with me our course ACK!). I’m still trying to wrap my mind around giving up some of my content luxuries but the plan is there for me to give it a shot one day. If I don’t like it, I can always come home again
Follow me @vanetworking on Twitter.
That sounds like fun, Tawnya!
Arnie rocks! I look forward to the 4 of us getting together. I have a feeling he & Dwaine will get along well
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
So yeah, if this affiliate thing doesn’t work out, you’ve got the chops to be one hella Life Coach. (jk)
I think this is your best blog post ever.
Follow me @Wulf_Gar on Twitter.
LOL :p
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Another great post Lynn – don’t ever apologise for these!
We were discussing John and Michelle’s choices on my mastermind call this week. It is kind of ironic that the IM gurus have been promoting their cars, huge houses and lavish lifestyles as a form of “freedom”, and now they’re realising that all their stuff limits their freedom! The minimalism bandwagon has been getting bigger over the last few months and I’m sure more of them will jump on it; you can see the sales letters now, can’t you? “Who Else Wants to Give Up Everything and Travel the World?” lol
When I moved from the UK, I had to fit my whole life into 300 cu ft and it was tough, because my “stuff” represented me in some way and I was a pack rat. After 7 months, I realise that even after all the downsizing, I still brought far more than I need! I don’t see myself fitting my life into a backpack anytime soon (I love books and clothes far too much for that) but I do enjoy the freedom of a lot less stuff.
Tony Robbins has just started a TV series on NBC on making breakthroughs and massive change. I can’t see the series itself here but I’ve started to follow it on his website. The program is called Breakthrough and there are extra clips etc. on his tonyrobbins.com/breakthrough website. I’ve always liked Tony Robbins, he has a compassion that shines through and he’s much much less hypey nowadays
Follow me @unleashyrgrowth on Twitter.
I’ve heard a bit of buzz about the show – I’ll have to check it out.
As for the stuff/freedom, I never bought into wealth = freedom. As my own business has grown, life became even more complicated. Not something I wanted, and something I even backed away from for the most part.
The movement goes hand in hand with smartphones and mobile computing, allowing anyone anywhere to work and play in the same space with complete mobility. It unchained us from the office and desk. I find myself doing more work on my Droid (on the go) than on my desktop PC these days. A taste of freedom I’d like more of!
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Wow, didn’t realize that you implemented so many changes besides giving up smoking – fantastic and lot of luck with all these positive, but strenous changes.
Thank you. Even more than I’ve said publicly too. It’s been a real challenge, but also amazing in so many ways. For a long time I thought I was going to be stuck like that forever… lol. Interesting how much things can change in a few short weeks.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
I’m very familiar with “the power of less”, it has been a great topic that was heavily discussed on ari’s blog (ariwriter.com)about 2 months ago. Anyway, I’ve always wanted to try what John Reese had done recently, and I’m sure that I’ll be doing that this year or next, perhaps. But I have no plans of selling things that I have at the moment, though I’ll have to leave them all and only bring few things that I really need for work (of course I need my laptop to survive).
It’s a good challenge for ourselves, to start things over and to start from scratch. It’s an admirable deed, and will definitely be a life changing experience, knowing that a whole new world awaits us in that condition.
Follow me @kaiserthesage.com on Twitter.
I have no plans to backpack-it across the world myself. As I mentioned in an earlier comment, I have finally settled down and made home after a lifetime of moving around freely (even with 2 children in tow). That was a huge step for me, and one I’ve been very happy with these last two years. That said, I do enjoy reading about John’s journey and Michelle’s decision really resonated with me. In the end, it’s all about our individual goals – and quest for balance.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
“If you were forced to eliminate everything in your life except what could fit into a single backpack, what would be in yours?”
I think it would be difficult to get my violin in my backpack. But at least I’m not a cellist…
I’d also find it hard to do without my internet connection, but technology is making that smaller (and more powerful) every day.
Interesting direction this blog is taking. Especially after I just finished reading the latest post on “Early Retirement Extreme” blog (by Jacob Lund Fisker). Fisker pushes the idea of learning to get by on almost no income, thereby greatly reducing your “nut” for retirement.
OTOH, it might be easier to put everything into just one backpack if one of those items was a debit card with a balance as large as John Reese’s.
Follow me @celtfiddler on Twitter.
LOL
Yes, John did say that he kept his businesses and intended to continue running those – mobile. So it’s not like he walked away from money or wealth. Only the weight of material possessions…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn,
I am so glad to see you getting those monkeys off your back and really taking the time to evoke deep change. I’ve been reading Leo’s posts for a while and I find his insights really strike home with me at this point in my life constantly.
I’ve been going through a transformation of sorts myself. Taking the time to reflect on what I really want out of life and taking tangible steps toward achieving it.
2010 has really been a “garage sale” kind of year for me. Lightening baggage, whether it’s emotional or physical, helps clear the way for the life-changing examination and action.
Bless you for your toughest decisions and sticking with them. Don’t apologize for getting off the niche subject because life is too important and short not to be examined by everyone.
Jeff
Follow me @gronesy on Twitter.
Thank you Jeff. Life-changing indeed. This last month has been an internal cleansing for me, but I already feel the desire to begin cleaning up my physical spaces (my daily environment) as well – like it’s part of the same process. 7 months into the year already and major change taking place (finally). I intend to close this year out with a huge sense of accomplishment, and peace of mind going into 2011. *cheers*
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Amen, Lynn. I congratulate you on powering through the changes in your life (especially the smoking part)and I especially appreciate your acknowledgement that it ain’t easy.
We are bombarded by messages all the time about how making changes from smoking to weight loss to making money to having “fulfilling relationships” can all be effortless and painless. It just isn’t the case.
Change can be good. Change is inevitable. It’s just not as easy as it looks.
Thanks for this heartfelt post!
Follow me @mdsuburbs on Twitter.
Effortless – ha! LOL I know what you mean. Those messages are almost depressing, and make people feel like they’re missing something when they can’t achieve the same as easily. It just doesn’t happen that way. I’m busting my butt at the gym several times a week right now, and while the mirror doesn’t reflect that (yet) – I’m definitely feeling it on the inside. And that’s what I’m focusing on right now…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Great topic, Lynn. First, you know I applaud you for putting yourself through the hell of quitting smoking. I’ve been there.
A group of us on Facebook have been talking about re-evaluations of life and business recently, too… business, money, ‘stuff’, etc.
Maybe it’s because of this last year of having 2 sons as deployed soldiers, and seeing the hell they go through, watching the pain as they see their friends fall on the battlefield…you start to look at your life at what is really important and what isn’t.
Anyway, our conversations have centered around one question that I think everybody should be asking themselves and that is, “Are you being true to yourself and doing what you were born to do?”
It’s not about the money and yes, while we need money, the ‘stuff’ doesn’t come with us.
It is, however, about having the time freedom to create the lasting memories with the people most important in our lives. THAT is what we will take with us into eternity.
Our businesses are just a means to something else…to generate the income we need to pay the bills, contribute to charity, make a difference, etc. The dollars are just an abstract number. It’s the meaning we put to them that is what’s important, whether it be $500 or $5000, for everybody it’s different.
Once I started really thinking, and yes, praying about this, it was like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders.
So, you’re definitely not alone and remember, the journey will be amazing!
Follow me @pattygaledotcom on Twitter.
Excellent question, Patty – very thought provoking…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn,
Interesting question. I had the misfortune of spending 4 months in a Toronto shelter for abused women, from Oct-Feb. Shelters have a “2-bag limit”. I wasn’t able to have my possessions around me for comfort – I was cut adrift. In my 2 bags were the necessities: clothes, sensible shoes, toiletries (the bare minimum; no froufrou cosmetics), a few valuables (pearls, rings), my laptop and my diary.
Somehow I managed, and it was quite the revelation that I could survive without all that STUFF! No books, so I used the library. Limited clothes, so we women shared and borrowed to mix it up. Same with accessories like shoes and handbags. I found I was able to live an almost normal life, despite having so little.
Wendy
I’m so sorry to hear you had to experience it for that reason, but can only imagine how enlightening the experience was. Wow.
I have an entire room of “stuff” I brought with me when I moved into this new home 2 1/2 years ago that I still have to deal with. I keep it behind a closed door and don’t let anyone in there (kids, housekeeper, etc). The relationships & associations we can have with “stuff” is interesting. I plan to tackle that room before the year ends…
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Lynn, you are doing a great thing and change is very hard. During the Nashville flooding we had friends that were given an hour to evacuate, makes you think what would you take with you, what could you live without. We downsized to a smaller house and I am still trying to pare down the stuff and simplify my life, just because I live on a farm does not mean I have to be a farmer if I don’t enjoy it. Stuff can be so distracting from the life you want to live.
Follow me @bjg6 on Twitter.
“Stuff can be so distracting from the life you want to live” -Amen!
One hour. I can’t imagine…
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Some great books you picked out there Lynn!
And I wanted YOU to know that I was inspired by you too… I’m 5 days cigarette free. Thanks for sharing your story about quitting!
Follow me @michellem on Twitter.
Yesterday was particularly rough for some reason. Not the entire day, just spells on and off. That’s when I read your comment here and it really touched me – thank you for taking the time to write this. It reminded me how far I’ve come (into week 5 now!) and… why.
I think this is one of the worst things I have ever personally been through. I know not everyone has the same experience. I hope yours is much smoother! *cheers*
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
Hi Lynn – first of all, kudos on giving up smoking!
I’ve thought a lot about the “if you had to give up everything…” question recently – I, too, have been longing to streamline and simplify my life and am finding that although I love the serenity of living on my farm… I am also overwhelmed by the enormity of keeping it all going.
There must be something in the air, because I also feel very owned by the things I own at this point in my life… I can definitely see the beauty of breaking free from the clutter – maybe heading toward a beach somewhere to focus on writing for a while as I figure out what comes next for me.
As far as “the things” I can’t do without – that one is easy. My dogs and horses – my 4 legged family that depends on me. The rest is pretty much just “stuff”…
Now if I could just figure out how to fit them into a backpack…
Follow me @trishlindemood on Twitter.
“owned by the things I own” – that’s a really good way to put it. For me it’s more of an internal clean sweep, but I can still relate to the feeling of being a slave to it. Interesting how we manage to obligate ourselves to things or concepts – unnecessarily.
Follow me @lynnterry on Twitter.
You are so right – more stuff = more upkeep/work. Who wants that?
I am a firm believer in living within one’s means and at this point in my life, I prize freedom and flexibility over making loads of money. Having money is nice but I’d much rather be traveling.
Thanks for the inspiration – I quit smoking 12 years ago but the whole “get in shape” part never took hold and I start and stop all the time. I wish I could turn your inspiration into motivation to get my butt off this couch and out of the house.
As for the off-topic post, I get so tired of hearing about six-figure launches, luxury boats, and how it is so darn EZ that anyone can do it. I love it when people let us see what’s going on “for reelz.”
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“If you were forced to eliminate everything in your life except what could fit into a single backpack, what would be in yours?”
What an intriguing sentence.
10 years ago I had to start again from scratch and one backpack of things was literally what was left of my former life. Unfortunately, what I most needed to lose I took with me – patterns of thinking and behaving that make are sure to make me miserable even today.
They are something that seem to change very very slowly.
Lynn, how do you like of “The path of least resistance”? It sounds interesting.
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For the moment I am concentrated on upgrading. I will downgrade probably when the kids will come up in the discussion but for the moment I need to have something to downgrade from.
Very nice topic but to take this decisions you have to be on an upper plane.
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[...] blog post – Getting Focused on What Really Matters – came from the ClickNewz blog of Lynn Terry who, herself, is somewhat of an expert on [...]
Hi, Lynn – great question!
Well, I’d make sure I have the necessary medical supplies to cope with an onslaught of biting insects! I’d have a safe place to store my credit card, cash and passport; my luxury item would be my own beach-size bathtowel. Necessities would be comfortable flat shoes for walking.
I would love to take a universal library ticket with me because I love reading and I wouldn’t want to carry books around with me; I would also make sure I had a digital camera because I love taking photos, despite my lack of expertise, and so I’d make a photo diary of my trip.
Hubby would be there as well – we’d have to do a fair bit of walking, to keep his back in trim – he has travelled much more than me and so is much more street-wise.
I’d love to volunteer to help in projects – something to do with kids – so that I could contribute a little.
What’s stopping me?? Hmm, I am wondering about that myself. What is stopping me???
Margaret
I’d have an iPod so that I could listen to my favorite music.
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When I was younger, I always had the dream of a life where all my belongings would fit into one suitcase (a little more than a backpack). The older I got the farther away I moved from this dream. At least we sold our house last year (which I really didn’t want to initially) and I moved into a spacious apartment. Lots of space comes with the tempation to keep far more things than you really need. And yes, they can be a burden.
So once every year I go through all my things and get rid of (almost) everything that I haven’t touched or even thought of the past year. And I still keep too much
What would I take if it would have to fit in a backpack?
Hm, my MacBook, my IPhone, my passport and – most important, my dog – whereas it would have to be a slightly bigger backpack then.
Anyhow, I like the idea of reconsidering what is really necessary in my life – a good task for the upcomming summer weeks.
Thanks for the inspiration.
And good luck with your changes – you will make it and will feel so much better afterwards for sure.
All the best
Kirsten
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Lynn -
I was inspired by you as well. I have gone back to the gym, running and eating properly. Its been almost a week and it feels great emotionally.
Thanks for the inspiration!
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Get outta my head, girlfriend!
I’ve been rethinking a lot, creating my bucket list (which amazingly had zero “stuff” on it and instead was all about creating experiences), and am currently in the process of getting rid of at least 50 items per day from my life until I can’t do it anymore.
My husband and I have been talking about selling our house and renting – just to lessen the stress of managing a home. If it weren’t for our 2 dogs, we probably would have it done by now.
I know we talked a lot about the trappings of stuff last year, and it really has stuck with me. The feeling I had when my family evacuated before Hurricane Ivan is something I can’t shake. We drove off and left everything behind, and I felt free. Like none of it mattered, except what I had in the car with me (my family – and my hard drives lol!).
Anyway, while I haven’t undergone the same lifestyle changes as you have (although I admire you greatly for having tackled them and for winning!) – I’m definitely reassessing what freedom means.
Hopefully we can get some time to connect and discuss at NAMS. Miss you!
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“I can do anything” Lynn, you’re right about this one and I am proud to hear you say it. I have never been a smoker myself, but there are other habits I have had to overcome. Although I don’t think I will be selling everything but what will fit in a backpack, that sounds a little too far for me (I am a Mother) I am making changes for the better right now too, moving into a better home for the needs of me and my children.
No, change is not easy. The biggest one for me was my divorce, but I found it empowered me in many ways and made me a more confident and less insecure person. Perhaps that’s what John and Michelle will accomplish too, not being a slave to circumstance or possessions, or for you, a slave to habit.
“Control is Freedom” Soooo true! You are an inspiration, go girl!
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Sounds great to get rid of extra, and if you are single it might make sense but for those of us with family – not an easy task
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Seems to be a trend of high profiled business owners selling, or downsizing their brand. Very interesting. I think it’s fabulous what John is doing.
Nell
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Lynn,
What an interesting post and a challenging question for us all. What do we hold most important? My hubby has been unemployed since December of 2009 and we are really struggling. I have spent many an afternoon in tears and prayer wondering how we will get through. I was absolutely floored a couple of weeks ago when my 7-year-old daughter caught me in 1 of my weak moments and asked me what was wrong. I told her that Mommy was sad that we may end up having to move and sell our house…..she thought and contemplated for a moment and she just sweetly said “That’s okay Mommy, God will help us find another home to live. We will still be a family.” She got a really squeezy hug from Mommy that afternoon. We all just need to concentrate on what is most important and put it all in perspective, ya know??
Jane
Lynn,
I’ve found that clearing the clutter(life & business) makes room for my authentic creativity. Whenever I experience this, I’m able to easily identify the experiences that give me that gut level satisfaction. I think many of us have become overwhelmed by the trappings and are numb to what truly brings us joy.
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Ahoy Lynn,
Interesting about John Reese, I had not heard of his lifestyle change.
We sold everything we owned about 5-6 years ago and moved aboard a sailboat. We have been living aboard full-time for just over 5 years now. No debt, nada, none, not even a mortgage.
I write about the subject of simplifying, that “things” own you, you don’t own them. I love your Grandmother’s quote! There is many types of CLUTTER in a person’s life.
CaptRob
Follow me @CaptRobLee on Twitter.
I read Leo’s book with great interest several months ago. I had several issues with it, namely the idea that any stay-at-home or work-at-home parent is going to have a pretty hard time creating a “Most Important Tasks” list and sticking to it. I would like to know which three of Leo’s six children don’t make the list each day? (Tongue firmly in cheek).
As a work-at-home mom with three relatively young children, I never know what the next day will bring. I can create my list of MITs and wake up to a sick child, or another child who has forgotten his gear for the big baseball game, or… you get the picture. I actually created a video in response to Leo’s suggestions:
“Why Leo Babauta Is Wrong” http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y34LkW9dY1k
I still see a lot of value in the book and its suggestions, but I think a more fluid method approach is needed. As I state in the video, we often end up feeling like something is wrong with US when the methods we read about and try to implement don’t work. It’s not us — it’s the method!
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Lynn,
There is a whole group of people that are looking to break away and leave it all behind. I left my job in 2006 and have been traveling every since. My company and other like minded travel bloggers are putting together an event on Sept 4 called Meet Plan http://meetplango.com/ where we will feature speakers in the 3 cities across N America who also left their jobs to take a career break. Some of us left it all behind, others just took a break and then returned to their career. If anyone is interested, please check out the website to see where the events are being hosted.
It´s a tough and very personal decision to simplify your life, whatever direction that takes you. But, ultimately, you will be much happier. All the best.
Jeff
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Hats off to John Reese! It takes this kind of clarity and a brave step to jump off the treadmill and make a life altering/affirming adventuresome change. We did it 5 years ago and although its been tough going (we did not have investments or credit cards to carry us) what I appreciate most is how little we actually need to live a full and prosperous life.
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I haven’t thought about paring down my life for years. I can see how it would be liberating. It is, after all, just “stuff”. I don’t know what would go in my backpack. A toothbrush and a survival guide. I loved “My Side of the Mountain” and I read it when I was a kid. I used to dream of leaving my family and doing the same thing. Relying solely on myself for my sustenance. It will be fun to see where these thoughts of mine go now that they’ve been prodded back into the forefront.
Peace.
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Congrats Lynn. Did you know you also have a higher self that you can connect to simply by asking for the connection? You also have a ‘heroic’ self – the version of you that has mastered your energies and frequencies. Life as we know it set up to be a free will choice system – even if we aren’t really told on this planet much of what exists beyond work, work, work. To learn more about our spiritual nature, you may be interested watching these videos on Project Camelot’s site:
http://projectcamelotproductions.com/interviews/ashayana_deane/ashayana_deane.html
All the best, Jaykay
Jane my heart goes out to you as I’m in the same boat. Your daughter was so right.
I thought this whole conversation about freedom and change was eye opening and exciting. I enjoy the freedom of reading your words and you write so eloquently and so personal and defintely not superfical. My only caveat is “money” gives you a measure of freedom. I had money and now I’m broke due to illness. Money gave me the freedom to work when I wanted and to work for who I wanted at that time. When you have money and your health its a banaza. I don’t feel so free without it especially when I pay for my medications( There a lot of money despite insurance)and look at whats left afterward.
Sometimes we are too busy with material and tangible stuffs that we forget to feed our soul. It helps with the spirit and increased motivation.
It makes you sharper and more focused.
Congratulations Lynne. Right on schedule for us change addicts.
Three years ago I lightened my load,(left many of my clients), to pursue a passion that “The Secret” whispered to me. It took 3 years to put together and I am still tying up loose ends. I decided to trust and step out and the bills have always gotten paid.
Keep up the forward motion and you are succeeding. My thoughts are with you.
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Quote:
It’s going to get bad before it gets better (like the huge mess you make trying to clean out a closet -lol).
–> How funny! I literally JUST took a break from cleaning out my closet and have 7 bags to get rid of. It’s not that it was a big mess but I had a lot of STUFF packed in there that I really never needed or used (like a huge box of gift bags that I never looked at because it was too messy).
GREAT post Lynn.
I hadn’t heard about John Reese giving up everything but good for him! It reminds me of a movie with Ryan Reynolds where he asks people to imagine putting their whole life in a backpack. I’m going to think about what I would put in a backpack and maybe write a blog post in reply to it.
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Lynne,
There is a quote that has become a mantra to me and a lot of baby boomers. “It is never too late to be what you might have been.”
We baby boomers created this narcisstic approach to life of accumulation and one upping the neighbors with possessions. I live in Southern California and it is an art form here on the west coast. Possessions as John Reese has discovered will not make you happy.
It is interesting that a lot of us are going thru the same struggles of a)what really matters in life b)what is my purpose. Oprah did a survey and shared it…people were asked “what is their purpose in life?” 70% could not answer the question.
So, I congratulate you in taking the time to review each aspect of your life and to make the positive changes. Include prayer and God will show you the direction.
God Bless,
Mark
Follow me @babyboomertalk on Twitter.
yah it really caught my interest.But I guess he is right, he has a point though..I agree with what your grandmother told you before…Greater possession, means greater responsibility…I think it made sense at all…It could really steal your freedom..
Lynne, You always inspire! Thank you for sharing this part of your journey with us, and your discoveries. All the best with your efforts — and congrats on the progress you’ve made so far.
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