5 stars for The Year of Less: How I Stopped Shopping, Gave Away My Belongings, and Discovered Life is Worth More Than Anything You Can Buy in a Store by Cait Flanders.
I chanced upon this book last October during one of my weekly visits to the library. I am not sure what to make of this self-help memoir at that time but I decided there and then to procrastinate in reading and make it my first review of the new year instead. Looking back, the choice to make this book my first read of Year 2020 turns out to be a life-changing decision.
The Year of Less is practical, sensible and very real. It is packed full of lessons for all of us on finding meaning in our lives. The author is a former binge consumer turned mindful consumer of everything. She shares in her book how she rid of excess things and live life based on experiences rather than worldly possessions, how she practices living intentionally with a goal in mind and be a more mindful consumer, and how she embraces minimalism and learns to live with less.
Suffice to say, this author is proof enough that "where there's a will, there's a way". If we are willing to let go of the things we think we need, if we are willing to walk away ready to change our life, we can have a life we really want. Ultimately, it boils down to changing habits and routines; changing the fixed way of doing things that we have unconsciously spent years perfecting.
I think I have never made a better choice by appointing this book my first book (review) of the year. It certainly paves the way for a great start. The author's personal stories motivate me to stop shopping, simplify, declutter and focus on things that are important to me. She has also inspired me to be braver in my life, to let go of the things I thought I need and get out of my comfort zone to pursue a life I really want.
I foresee Year 2020 to be a year of Less. My year of less, but also a year of more. Because less is more. Less quantity, more quality. I have finally plucked up the courage to turn the life I truly want into reality. With changes come uncertainties - that is for sure - but I also know that whenever we let go of something negative in our lives, we make room for something positive. I am excited and looking forward to saying goodbye to negative vibes, lost money, lost dreams and lost opportunities, Year 2020 shall be the beginning of my saved money, saved dreams and saved opportunities.
If you want changes but have been afraid, be it of uncertainties or failure, then this book is a must-read. You will be inspired to take steps towards a better future for yourself and the people that matter to you.