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A while ago I came to the same conclusion. There is a point where material excess may become a bit of a burden. Currently, the possessions that are of any significance to me can be summed up in a fairly short list; this is what I would actually miss if it were to disappear.
1. My computer. I put a decent amount of work into it. On top of that, my future career will likely revolve around one. My Laptop, in similar vein, can be included here. Internet connection goes here as well.
2. Wardrobe, or at least a part of it. I have enough clothes to last me a fairly long time, so as of last month I decided not to buy any more, unless there is a serious need.
3. Necessities like water and food, hygiene, and things that are related to this (ie, fridge, dishes, etc)
4. Perhaps some furniture. I'd say over 80% of what I own was handed down to me by friends and family, so no luxury here.
5. I currently live within walking or biking distance from almost every place I visit. Consequently, I have a bike and don't need a car. Sometimes I get rides. I save quite a bit of money here  .
6. Items of deeper personal significance. Gifts from friends which symbolize something lasting. This is irreplaceable, and I cherish such items.
I'm pretty sure this is it. I stopped watching tv years ago (the net is way more entertaining, with access to news, ebooks, and what not), and right now I can't really think of anything else which I wouldn't be able to live without. I had a couple major moves in my life (ones where what can't be loaded onto a plane was left behind), and realized that most of what we own is either unnecessary or easily replaceable, often by something better.
My .2
EDIT: The money that I could conceivably save is significant, yet I have a couple pretty major spending habits. Clothes used to be one, but not anymore. Eating out is another one I'm trying to reduce, if not eliminate.
Last edited by silene on Sep-13-2008 at 02:00
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