Much had changed. Packing for a recent trip felt different. Instead of three bags, there was one, a “Roll-Away” that fit in the overhead bin. No baggage fees! Check! Clothes worked for both daytime and evening activities. Check! The coat was helpful in light rain and windy conditions without being cumbersome or difficult to pack. Check! The backpack purse felt secure and was never “changed out”. Check!
Yet despite these small victories, there was still too much stuff. Many items were transported to Europe and brought back unworn: too many dressy clothes, toiletries and shoes! If truth be known, the Roll Away was difficult to zip from the start! That alone indicated more perceived “Must Have’s” and not enough Right Things!
Our stuff burdens us whether we’re traveling or not. Like an over-stuffed bag, spaces become cluttered. Consider the rooms in your home. How clear are the spaces? Most of us, almost unknowingly, hoard too many things! No wonder our suitcases represent giant receptacles.
Please don’t get this message wrong. Of course it’s fine and even necessary to surround yourself with what you love. And, of course, we need to own some things because these items are what we need to function in life! It’s when we carry around too many extras that life becomes complicated, especially when traveling!
What are the Right Things? Answer: The Essentials, “things that are absolutely necessary”. What’s essential when traveling? How might we apply a “What’s essential” mindset to our home life? Here are a few suggestions gleaned from a recent trip:
Ease
Getting dressed in the morning should be easy. Very little thought or time is involved so that you can get out the door quickly and into the world!
Comfort
It’s nice to wear your favorite and practical “Go To’s”, the items that make you feel like a Rock Star…comfortable in you. No need to bring (or buy) anything else.
Time
Less is more. Otherwise we’ll be unpacking for too long and or constantly organizing and rearranging stuff! How do you want to spend your time? Is sorting through things high on your list of desired activities?
Once again, traveler, Marie Picasso shares her wisdom in this video, “The Right Thing for The Right Thing” . Don’t miss this gem, aka, bonus, “Using What Is“!
