Addition By Subtraction

Today is the Official Letting Go of Stuff Day. I spent the afternoon with a client and a carpenter changing and organizing her pantry. My client let go of three bags of groceries that will be a welcome donation to a charity food pantry. She also let go of cooking utensils that are no longer used. These items no longer fit her lifestyle.

Ironically subtracting these items from the pantry, added to it and to my client. What was gained:

• Visibility. It's easier to see a specific item without all the visual noise of items that are not used.
• Accessibility. Items don't have to be shuffled around to get what is needed.
• Time. Items can be found faster and accessed faster.
• A renewed commitment to healthier goals. By removing what no longer fit in her healthier lifestyle she removed distractions that could sidetrack her.

Certainly all of these gains are wonderful in themselves. But my client stated that the greatest gain was peace of mind. That comment certainly added to my day.

How did your "Letting Go of Stuff " day go? I'd love to hear about your experience with addition by subtraction.

As you know UPrinting.com has sponsored a giveaway and today is the day to announce the winner. Congratulations Tim! You have won 500 custom business cards.