Aesthetic By Default
I try to live my life as intentionally as I can, but often I’m taken aback at exactly how much I do that’s UNintentional.
I (perhaps like you) aspire to live in one of those beautiful spacious homes where minimalism is the central design feature.
We’re talking about white walls, sleek neutral furniture, spotless marble kitchens, natural lighting, perhaps the tiniest hint bit of gold decor, and one (1) big green Monstera plant as an accent. You know, like you see posted on Instagram by the influencers.
About a year ago, I took a step back and looked at my home from an outsider’s point of view, and realized that my central design feature is actually CLUTTER — I have books and plants and various project equipment on EVERY SURFACE, in pretty much EVERY ROOM. 😬😬😬
I pretty much live like a well-read hobbit. Or a very absentminded wizard who has suddenly gotten REALLY into podcasting.
In surveying my surroundings, I felt a momentary shock, and then a bit of disappointment — I don’t have the kind of home that I’d be comfortable showing off on Instagram.
I hadn’t INTENDED to pile all of those books next to the overstuffed bookshelf, and I know my husband hadn’t INTENDED to permanently leave his musical keyboard on the dining room table.
My home isn’t anything curated or intentional. But it is an accurate representation of my life.
Am I okay with this? In a way, no. I still want that beautiful, sleek, minimalist home for people to oooh and aaah over. I want to be seen as competent and professional, and even admired for my taste.
But in a way, I *am* okay with my cluttered little home. It’s honest. It’s authentic. it’s me. And it has a unique aesthetic, even if it is the aesthetic of an overcaffeinated swamp hag with too many cats.
All of this got me thinking about what life would look like if I had a more purposefully curated home, and what place that curation would take in my life. What it would replace.
I could spend my time and money on interior decorating, or I could spend it on podcasting. Now, I’m not saying one is superior to the other, or even marginally better — both are extremely valid as a hobby or profession.
But I don’t have unlimited time or money, unfortunately, so I have to make a choice. Or, if you want to get dramatic about it… a sacrifice.
What about you? What do you sacrifice so that you can pursue what you truly love to do?
Words & warmth,
Sarah
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