Rethink Your Stuff: What To Splurge On, What To Toss  

Interesting to see Lifehacker picking up Bruce's last Viridian note from a few years ago (getting it in tur from GreenBiz - Rethink Your Stuff: What To Splurge On, What To Toss.

GreenBiz has highlighted salient points from a long, philosophical essay called the Last Viridian Note written by Bruce Sterling. One of the key points Sterling makes is that having too much of the wrong kind of stuff can be a burden, but “economising” or just being a cheapskate misses the point too. Basically:

What you need are things that you GENUINELY like. Things that you cherish, that enhance your existence in the world. The rest is dross.

When re-evaluating your possessions (or purchasing a new item, I might add), ask yourself three questions:

* Is it beautiful—something you’re proud of displaying?
* Is it emotionally important to you—help you establish who you are or who you want to be?
* Is it useful—and something you definitely currently or will use?

If not, get rid of it (e.g., donate, recyle), or pass on buying it. Instead, Sterling advises everyone “get radically improved everyday things.” Invest in a good bed, for example, since you spend a third of your life in one. Good shoes, an ergonomic chair, a multi-function tool—these are things your money should go towards.

Paring down and focusing on the critical, yet normal stuff can greatly improve the quality of your daily life.