April 23, 2015 – St. Paul, Minnesota

“We decided we would rather trim all of the superficial garbage because not only is it emotionally freeing, but it frees you financially to live the way you want.”

Words of wisdom from my younger, smarter, and stronger sibling’s husband. The three of us had a lengthy Skype session recently, and in turn I discovered that my sis and her husband were going through a similar transformation process. Their first step was downsizing their living space, realizing that they were inhabiting a house that was “much larger than necessary.” I saw it in person last year, and would definitely concur.

“We started purging things we didn’t need and the more we got rid of things… we started feeling, in a sense, more relaxed and free.”

Though I would love to take full credit for influencing their change of perspective, many sources of inspiration are out there on the interwebs and other telecommunication mediums. “The Story of Stuff” is one in particular that my sister credits for opening their eyes, so to speak. Regardless of what the initial source was, I’m just extremely happy that they became inspired enough to take action.

“…we had to act. You cannot live life just being inspired, you have to act and live out that inspiration. It is amazing what we have just begun to dive into and how much happier we are realizing that cutting ‘needs’ and expenses can make us. When you cut out the unnecessary and focus on the core of your life and what you want to get out of life – that will lead to more freedom and happiness.”

I couldn’t have said it better myself. Due to focusing on what I want and taking action towards it, I stumbled across an amazing idea. An idea that has renewed my faith in humanity, brought me closer to myself, and encourages me to look forward to my future more than ever.

“Most of all, you get time. Time for doing whatever you want.”

Amen, brother.

“It’s what you do in your free time that will set you free – or enslave you.” – Jarod Kintz