Wants (and Requirements): Living with Intention

Wants and Requirements.

Two things that I am constantly thinking about. Where do we draw the line between the two? How do we break down our basic needs and wants into the two stark categories of excess and necessity? How can we decide, without the influence of advertising, culture and peer group what truly adds meaning and value to our lives? 

These are a lot of big questions that I've been spending the last few years trying to answer. And alas to no avail. Currently I am feeling overwhelmed with work, obligations and things that, if I had my choice, would be eliminated from my ever-growing "To Do" list. So where does that leave me? How do can a busy routine change into something better?

Welcome to Minimal(art)ist. Even though right now I have a mountain of work to do I am doing this instead, which is ok. It's ok to take a breath and think these things through. With only one life to live I am realizing how important it is to choose what things require our attention and what things we can let go of. I feel, in my overwhelmed state, that this blog and record of my progress is what is necessary for me right now. 

Requirements:

Food

Drink

Shelter

Health

Love

Wants:

Everything Else (More on this to come)

We all have some basics requirements in our lives; shelter, warmth, health, sleep. to eat, drink and eliminate waste. And to love and be loved. Everything after that is extra and in many cases excess. I am hoping to minimize the superfluous things in my life so what remains are truly the things I want. They are there because I want them there, intentionally.

Hopefully I can more fully explore this in my life, art and workplace. If all goes well I'll be able to reach out and inspire others to live a fuller life with less.

Check out my instagram for more consistent updates on my process and progress. Mahalo.