Travelling alone for extended periods of time (in excess of 6 months and not really alone because there are plenty of like minded people around the world) teaches you many many things…but I think one of the most important is to pack light.
When we’re stationary with a fixed address living mainly through routine we don’t seem to contemplate our stuff and how much we have. We seem not to notice how much space our stuff takes up, both in terms of the physical space in our homes but also the mental space in our heads. Often we keep things because…just because. Some things hold a sentimental value, others we hold onto because we paid top dollar for it and we tell ourselves we’ll have a use for it one day. Having lots of stuff creates a crowded mindset, whether we know it or not.
Now that I’ve settled down somewhat myself I’m guilty of foregoing some of the lessons I’d learnt as a nomad. So I’ve started consciously acknowledging everything I have, deciding what purpose it serves in my life and turfing anything else. I’m taking photos of the sentimental stuff and getting rid of the item itself, as the item means nothing…its the memories the item triggers is what really counts.
I’m feeling happier and more refreshed about the stuff I own than ever before. I’ve started on another journey living at home with my family, stationary, following somewhat of a routine but packing light and living free.