Minimalism and motherhood

Dear Readers, Stuff. So much stuff and I'm going to repeat that word several times in this blog. We have items overflowing from our closets, cubbies, drawers, cabinets, garage, car trunks, purses and every storage space in our lives. We even pay money to store our personal items away from the house because we have no more room. Does all of this stuff, presumably with monetary value bring us greater happiness? You may be nodding your head in agreement but wondering what this topic has to do with early motherhood. Keep reading.

If I've spoken with you over the past few years, I may have mentioned my belief in the ideology and lifestyle of minimalism. That is, the literal and spiritual "decluttering" of your life and getting rid of items that don't add value. Of course, having a baby can be very counterproductive to this ideology as new parents are generally bombarded with troves of toys, clothing, cribs, strollers, hygiene products, and more. Boxes and bags take over the living room and every open space. Before you know it, your once "minimalized" house is now transformed into a place you no longer recognize. It can be overwhelming and stressful - it was for me. Six months later I've realized that as a new parent, it's possible to still embrace this lifestyle and overall attitude. One blessing to being a SAHM (stay-at-home mom) is I've naturally come to embrace a simpler life. I've donated many baby and adult clothing items and household goods to a local nonprofit, freeing both my closets and my mind of clutter. It's not a financial decision it's more a state of mind that is very freeing. I think twice before I buy something. Is this something that will add value to my life? As parents, we will make sure Evangeline is always taken care of and has everything she needs. She is an infant and depends on us to keep her healthy, happy and safe. It's rare that I am shopping for the latest and most popular baby toy or clothing item, just because. The weather is getting warmer and sun hotter, so I bought her sunscreen for the first time this week. If she currently has something she enjoys or keeps her warm and comfortable, I don't buy excess. I think this a good habit to develop with kids as far as expectations. I greatly value experience-themed gifts with a memory attached as opposed to a physical item that will be outgrown and recycled after a few months.

I like this ideology because it encourages us to give pause before bringing more stuff into our home and lives. It focuses on finding value as a person, parent and for me, a mother.

The less stuff we own, the more we have.