I don't have to buy so much stuff.

I just wanted to share a small story in the hopes that it can help someone like me. I've been working towards living a more minimalist lifestyle and I think I had a small epiphany today. <br><br>I just finished reading a book that I borrowed from the library, and as I was walking out of the house to return it, I thought to myself "I should really buy the second book in this series." It would be a hardcover, a nice addition to my library...and as I thought about it, I felt a familiar feeling of guilt and frustration. I didn't want to spend the $30 or whatever it would have cost, but also I wanted to own the book. Then I had the thought that occurred to me - I don't have to buy this book right now. It is completely OK if I don't buy this book. <br><br>This was different from the familiar internal monologue of "you don't need this, don't buy it", because that always felt like a restriction, a lack of freedom and a denial of something I want. Today felt different though, because today it felt like I was just as free if I didn't buy it, and I realized fully that I don't have to buy so much stuff. There's no need.<br><br>I returned the book, and I went back home with a light feeling in my chest.<br><br>I just wanted to share that with you all. Sometimes I feel like the best victories in this lifestyle are so small, and they get lost to the wind.