I’ve come to the conclusion that I’d be happier with (far) fewer possessions. This is the logical conclusion of one who has realised that more material possessions do not only not make you happier, but actually have a corrosive effect on the mind. To be held hostage by your emotional attachment to such consumerist values, is to betray a lack of self-respect. My brief study of Stoicism served to underline this; to achieve apatheia (a serene and peaceful state of mind), you need to remove the emotional link to entities over which you have no control. Emotional detachment allows you to think logically, more purposefully.

You have power over your mind – not outside events. Realize this, and you will find strength.

Marcus Aurelius

On a related note, I don’t find any use or purpose in New Years resolutions. If something you plan is going to be of such benefit, surely it doesn’t need to wait till the following year to begin. In any case, the evaluation of your priorities should be an ongoing task. However, it does serve as a good reminder as to the importance of prioritising. For those that do follow such traditions, try and think differently this year. As well as deciding what you would like to achieve this year, determine what is NOT required and do away with that. Possessions, emotional attachment to previous events, anything that is no longer relevant to making you the person you want to be. They’re merely distractions, nothing more.

Further reading:

http://www.fourhourworkweek.com/blog/2009/04/13/stoicism-101-a-practical-guide-for-entrepreneurs/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glossary_of_Stoic_terms

Post picture credit: Ron Garan/NASA