Finding Happiness with Less

My Evolving Relationship with Material Possessions

I’ve always loved shopping. Accumulating things used to bring me joy. As a teenager, I was an avid reader (and still am, though « adulting » leaves me with less time). My bedroom boasted a bookshelf filled with over 500 books. My favorite place to buy them was BookOutlet, thanks to their incredible discounts—I placed several orders every year.

Shopping More, Using Less

Things changed after I graduated from university and landed my first full-time « adult » job. Suddenly, I had disposable income and a long list of hobbies I wanted to try. The problem? I would buy all the gear but rarely follow through.

• I bought a quality Canon camera to explore photography. It now collects dust in the basement, unused since a trip to Vancouver almost three years ago.
• During the pandemic, I tried baking bread from scratch. After two loaves, I bought a proofing gadget—which has now sat unused for nearly five years.
• I thought I’d take up sewing, especially after my late grandmother gave me her machine. Sadly, I never learned. I finally decluttered it this spring.

The Running and Triathlon Phase

A few years ago, I got into running and even completed a triathlon. I bought multiple pairs of running shoes—they were so affordable on The Last Hunt’s website! I also purchased a triathlon bike after my first race, but I got pregnant that fall and have barely used it since. However, I’ve resumed cycling this spring and plan to continue recreationally with my new family priorities.

My Current Hobby: Coloring

This winter, I spent a lot of time breastfeeding in a rocking chair and got pulled into the TikTok world of adult coloring. I bought alcohol markers, acrylic pens, Disney mystery color-by-number books—you name it. While I do enjoy it, I now realize I went overboard and will never use all of it.

Learning to Let Go and Simplify

This journey has taught me something important: I need to figure out which hobbies truly bring me joy—and what I can realistically manage with a growing family. Decluttering and creating a more minimalist home will give me more time and space to enjoy what I truly love.

Key Takeaways

• Buying gear doesn’t equal doing the hobby.
• It’s okay to let go of hobbies that no longer serve you.
• A clutter-free space can lead to a more fulfilling life.