[October 18th, 2015]

Throughout the extent of our journey thus far, the #1 question we've received has been: "how were you able let go of all that stuff?"

Well, it wasn't easy.

Sure, reading about it through blog posts may have made it seem simple enough—but for anyone who has dared to try it themselves, you'd agree that it does take a special kind of determination.

Through moments thick and thin, the right encouragement certainly helps! And what better way to be encouraged than to expose yourself to others who have undergone similar "minimalist" movements before you?

So, whether you're looking to undertake a "less is more" lifestyle or not, feast your eyes on some of our favorite stories below, in no particular order. (Audio-books recommended where necessary, if you're jumping on the minimalist-bandwagon! ;)

The Minimalists.
- Without a doubt, it's likely that anyone pursuing a "less is more" lifestyle has heard of The Minimalists. Their book, Essential, is a compilation of essays from their blog—strategically chosen in a way that reads as a complete work. These guys are Aviv's type of guys for sure: all practical, and no bullshit. Their main message? Pursue a life where you use stuff and love people—not the opposite.
Marie Kondo's The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing.
- Another popular read—and if you recall, it's a book that was gifted to us at the start of all this! If you're looking for a handy how-to type of guide with a splash of feminine-depth, it's all in Kondo's book.
This story.
- You thought getting rid of prized possessions was difficult? Take a glimpse into the lives of a family who vowed not to buy a single item (non-food, or hygiene stuff) for a year! Spoiler: they succeeded!
Life, Interrupted—Suleika Jauoud's ever-inspiring NYTimes column.
- Over the past few days since I discovered Suleika's story through a friend of a friend, her writing and her experience has put life into an even more meaningful perspective. An incredible writer, and empowering spirit—this October, she also got rid of the stuff in her world that no longer served her, and embarked on a 100 day road trip across the USA with her dog, Oscar. She's writing it all, and taking a picture a day!
Finally, this quote—taken from Jerome K. Jerome's 1889 novel, Three Men in a Boat:
- “Let your boat of life be light, packed with only what you need - a homely home and simple pleasures, one or two friends, worth the name, someone to love and someone to love you, a cat, a dog, and a pipe or two, enough to eat and enough to wear, and a little more than enough to drink; for thirst is a dangerous thing. ”

Enjoy—and have a wonderful week ahead, friends!

-P+A