Had to evacuate from a wildfire shortly after I graduated from college. There’s nothing like knowing that anything you don’t take will likely be burned to a crisp to really evaluate what is most important to you and what is not necessary. I had a very small car, so between the time and space limitations, there was a very limited amount of things I could grab.

I just found that I find having stuff really taxing mentally. Both the thought of having spent money and wasted space on things I rarely or never enjoy; or the endless maintenance and cleaning of those things. I have found a good balance where I have just the things I need and some extras that I haven’t bothered with getting rid off.

It should be said that I am financially quite comfortable, so in the worst case I can just purchase or rent what I may be needing in the future.

honestly, more ‘stuff’ around makes me feel anxious and stressed. i keep my place as tidy as i can for this reason. if something i own doesn’t have a place i find it hard to relax in my home.

My wife and I wanted to live on a boat. Sadly, it never happened, but as part of the preparation process we went from a 1200 sqft house to a 600sq ft studio apartment and got rid of a load of stuff to make it happen. It was great!

We did well for several years of keeping a small footprint, even after the dream of the boat collapsed, but experienced a slight relapse during the pandemic. Just now reducing again having moved from a two bedroom place to a one bedroom to offset unaffordable rent.

After high school I moved every summer for 6 years. Got really tired of packing and unpacking unnecessary items. Stuck with the life style.

Already answered in another thread, but will add here aswell: when I had to move while stressed. Got pissed at all the stuff I had which I didn’t need but still had to be taken with me due to time constraints.