Maximize Happiness with Rational Minimalism

Rational minimalism allows us to maximize happiness everyday.

“The more we value things, the less we value ourselves”

Quote from Bruce Lee
Martial Artist, Instructor, Actor, Director, Philosopher; Founder of Jeet Kune Do

My partner’s sister-in-law is a self-proclaimed minimalist. Proudly placed on her entryway table is a sign that says, “Less house, more home.”

It’s awesome. Unfortunately you can barely see it behind all of the high-end decorative items also cluttering the table.

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An Experiment With Minimalism Across the Pond

A new job gave me the opportunity to experiment with minimalism across the pond

Happy thirtieth birthday to me.

Let the death march begin.

It’s okay, I had fun in my youth. Shenanigans in my teens, going for something between goth and heavy metal. Dating a local musician, going to shows, becoming the unintended groupie. And my minivan really rounded out the persona.

I embraced the academic world, took a range of classes – philosophy, world religion, literature, biology, psychology, statistics. Even stayed up late reading great works, and made time to go to a few shows every semester. Slipped away and reunited with my high school friends over drinks and live music.

And then I became a corporate whore and suburbanite.

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My First House and Settling for the Suburban Life

Buying my first house was a combination of luck and discipline.

The corporate Koolaid tasted delicious.

I broke my tooth six months into my new job. Paid time off was available to me to to visit the dentist, and insurance covered some of the cost. Every two weeks, a deposit came into my account like clockwork. It took a few months to stop thinking like an hourly employee, wondering if I’d have enough money for my bills, for my rent. Worrying that my schedule would be cut one week, hoping for overtime the next week.

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