How cultural is our clutter? Interesting question. Is it a different phenomenon here in Canada compared to Europe?
After many years living in Europe I think I would lean towards yes, primarily - I'll explain. Now keep in mind this is only based on my experience so take it for what it is.
Obviously in major European cities the living space is considerably less than here in Canada. Although the average size of affordable housing here is changing rapidly hence the proliferation of storage facilities, (more on that later). The main thrust or feeling towards material possessions there is first and foremost function. Not the drab, beige functionality of a communist ideal that may spring to mind. The functionality injected with an appreciation for the aesthetic. The purpose of the object is served well but is also pleasing to look at - a little spark of je ne sais quoi.
There is also the mixture of old and new, vintage and modern, sentimental and serviceable. This balance is achieved by a certain ease and contentment of our place in time. Space is limited and therefore so is stuff. Life is not about living in a cocoon and needing everything you may ever want to experience within your 4 walls. It is more geared to getting out there, doing things, experiencing art, history, people (and people watching which is very under rated!). Development of the spirit as opposed to focusing on what our lives look like to other people from the outside.
Back to rental storage facilities - these of course serve a purpose, but sadly, they contribute greatly to the myth that more stuff is the secret to an amazing life. Well, let's do the math. The starting price in the greater Vancouver area is $75/month for the smallest unit which measures 5.66 metres cubed.
$75 x 12 months =$900
That is the smallest unit, so not a full ceiling height and it's stacked on other units. Think carefully about the things you are planning on storing. Are you storing them because you need temporary storage in between moves or are you storing them because it's easier than dealing with each item and making a decision about its final fate? Only you can answer that question, but please, when you do, be honest like you've never been before.
To help put it in perspective think in these terms:
How much of your credit card or other debt could be reduced by $900?
Which holiday could you start planning if you had $900 to put towards it?
How many groceries could you buy for $900?
How many facials/pedicures etc could be enjoyed with $900?
Which sport, hobby or lessons could be paid for with $900?
Could you start an emergency fund with $900?
Could you start an RESP account for your child/children?
Your life, your choice - just be sure you are making a well thought out choice for you.
After many years living in Europe I think I would lean towards yes, primarily - I'll explain. Now keep in mind this is only based on my experience so take it for what it is.
Obviously in major European cities the living space is considerably less than here in Canada. Although the average size of affordable housing here is changing rapidly hence the proliferation of storage facilities, (more on that later). The main thrust or feeling towards material possessions there is first and foremost function. Not the drab, beige functionality of a communist ideal that may spring to mind. The functionality injected with an appreciation for the aesthetic. The purpose of the object is served well but is also pleasing to look at - a little spark of je ne sais quoi.
There is also the mixture of old and new, vintage and modern, sentimental and serviceable. This balance is achieved by a certain ease and contentment of our place in time. Space is limited and therefore so is stuff. Life is not about living in a cocoon and needing everything you may ever want to experience within your 4 walls. It is more geared to getting out there, doing things, experiencing art, history, people (and people watching which is very under rated!). Development of the spirit as opposed to focusing on what our lives look like to other people from the outside.
Back to rental storage facilities - these of course serve a purpose, but sadly, they contribute greatly to the myth that more stuff is the secret to an amazing life. Well, let's do the math. The starting price in the greater Vancouver area is $75/month for the smallest unit which measures 5.66 metres cubed.
$75 x 12 months =$900
That is the smallest unit, so not a full ceiling height and it's stacked on other units. Think carefully about the things you are planning on storing. Are you storing them because you need temporary storage in between moves or are you storing them because it's easier than dealing with each item and making a decision about its final fate? Only you can answer that question, but please, when you do, be honest like you've never been before.
To help put it in perspective think in these terms:
How much of your credit card or other debt could be reduced by $900?
Which holiday could you start planning if you had $900 to put towards it?
How many groceries could you buy for $900?
How many facials/pedicures etc could be enjoyed with $900?
Which sport, hobby or lessons could be paid for with $900?
Could you start an emergency fund with $900?
Could you start an RESP account for your child/children?
Your life, your choice - just be sure you are making a well thought out choice for you.
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