Things of beauty

So far, most of the discussion here was centred on the “too much” aspect of our homes, and it is time to address another aspect of wellbeing: some of the things we have in our homes have a very simple function: they are beautiful. Where we live should be a sanctuary to retreat to from the world and, well, feel at home. Beautiful things are an important part of how we manage to create this feeling.

We all have items in our homes that we feel very strongly about because we perceive them as beautiful and we believe they enhance our home. That could be a series of canvases on the wall, a couple of little things on the mantelpiece, souvenirs from holidays, a blooming orchid, anything really. Beauty is a very subjective thing and while you like the Chinese vase on your windowsill, others might not.

There is a danger, however: while things of beauty can enhance your home, they can also become a burden to your wellbeing… when they multiply beyond control and suddenly turn into a collection. Everything we own will eventually become a thing we keep out of habit: maybe we simply love the idea of that orchid’s flowers (it has not flowered in years), or we have gotten used to seeing that statue in the front garden (and actually have grown bored with it), but ultimately there comes a time that we only see them when we concentrate or accidentally look more closely. Things – even beautiful things – ultimately blend in with the background and become invisible.

Beautiful things are very hard to let go: they have arrived in our homes with a lot of promise, and they have fulfilled that promise for a time. But when they become part of the scenery it might be time to let go and exchange them for something that makes you hold your breath again whenever you see it. At this point, even the most beautiful piece of art must be considered as clutter because it does not serve its purpose any longer: we don’t perceive it anymore and its main function of making the home more beautiful has faded.

Sometimes it takes a good hard look to see what’s there – and to realise what you do not need to be there any longer. Here’s a tip: next time you are cleaning your home and you come across something that you only SEE when you have to move it to properly dust a surface… it’s time to consider letting that thing go. You also want to take a look around yourself at that moment to take in the surroundings: I’m pretty sure you will suddenly see other items exactly like the one you just singled out.

I’m not suggesting to throw things out just like that, though. Clearly you have (had) feelings about some of these items and it would be a shame to simply dump those things of beauty. However, if the item has intrinsic worth, why not sell it to an art dealer? Or, if there is little or no financial interest in the item, maybe you know of someone who has expressed interest, even envy about you having this thing… why not consider turning it into a gift and make someone happy? This will also make you happy because you know the item is appreciated and you get to enjoy the surprise on your friend’s face. Think about it.

If you have enjoyed reading this, you may find these other articles interesting:

• Are you a hoarder?
  
• We are collectors
  
• Physical side-effects of clutter