Don’t Upgrade Your Living Space Just to House More Stuff (116/365)April 26, 2012 @ 2:00 pm - Written by Trent
Even though he advocates for using the one-for-one approach to acquiring stuff it seems like he still feels like his space has shrunk.
I am a big advocate of getting rid of everything you don't use frequently or don't need (donating or selling is best). I lived in my car for a short while through college so it unnerves me to see that we can't contain all of our stuff in a two bedroom apartment. My wife definitely helps to balance me out in that sometimes I want to throw things out before they have lost all of their usefulness.
I know that most people don't go into a new home with the intention of just storing more stuff (aside from real hoarders), but I would be extremely cautious of moving into a larger place because it will be more expensive and I am a firm believer that anyone can adapt to the size of their bowl. If you need more space then go outside.
I know that you might think that each kid needs their own room, or that all the stuff you have is a necessity. I think the one argument that saves me with my wife is "Is this stuff really worth an additional $1200.00 every year? Plus the additional cost of utilities and the cost of moving?" annualize it and understand that you probably won't go back, this will become your new standard of living.
Housing cost make up a large portion of most people's income and I suggest you do everything in your power to only use the space you really really need.