Reading The Simple Llama may give you the wrong impression – that living a simple life is all about buying new things, and specifically lining Apple’s pockets with more cash. That’s not the case, and I want you to understand why.
There are many electronic devices – whether computers, routers, hard drives, scanners, or whatever, that have the possibility to make your life simpler when used properly. That is, if you’re replacing existing items with items of a simpler design.
Read that carefully.
Take the iMac for example. Extremely minimalist design, very simple, very elegant, and it can even serve as a sort of modern art piece. But what good does it do if you buy one, only to put it on the desk next to your current computer? Now instead of one simple, elegant device, you have two. That is not simplifying.
Replacing complicated items with simple items is good. Replacing two items with one that does the job of two, also good. Simply getting rid of things you don’t need is also a step in the right direction. The goal is not to add, but rather to improve and simplify. Before you take out your wallet, ask yourself: “Does this simplify my life?”
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Great points.
All making me want to head towards getting a Smartphone to get rid of my cellphone and organizer.
My MP3s stay on my iPod however. I like having a simple device to hold 80GB, and until they come out with a Smartphone that does that.. the iPod stays.
Does this simplify my life…. and do I have the cash to pay for it?
The upside of having to wait for the cash is that the technology gets better with each passing day, so by the time I’m ready to replace my laptop, they’ll have one that also makes coffee!
Great post!
@ The Everday Minimalist You know, I’m surprised that someone hasn’t done a super high capacity cell phone / mp3 player. There may be a market for that. On the other hand, internet radio is getting pretty strong these days. Pandora usually keeps my musical needs covered, when my library doesn’t.
@Barb Sticking to a cash only budget is a great choice to keep you from buying unnecessary stuff. Not having to worry about those incoming credit card bills is also a great stress reliever.