The Conversation: A Virtual Life in the Real World
Man gets rid of possessions to live a minimalist, digitally centered life.
Aug. 19, 2010— -- Kelly Sutton's goal is to own essentially nothing.
The 22-year-old software engineer has spent the past year selling off almost all of his belongings. Except for his computer, a Kindle e-book reader, some other electronics, clothing, and a few pieces of furniture, Sutton's Brooklyn apartment is almost empty.
"I've found that more stuff equates to more stress," Sutton writes on his website, CultofLess.com, explaining his project. "Each thing I own came with a small expectation of responsibility. I look into my closet and feel guilt."
On the site, he lists publicly every possession that he owns. He's sold off or given away many of the objects. His goal is to be able to live his life out of two suitcases and two boxes.
Sutton knows that his lifestyle isn't for everyone, and he admits that his friends believe his decision is strange. Still, Sutton tells ABC's Stephanie Sy in today's Conversation that people can find value in having less.
"It makes moving around a lot easier, it makes travel a lot easier," said Sutton. "I can go wherever I want on a whim and bring most of my stuff with me if I need to."
Sutton's experience seems to reflect a growing body of research that suggests possessions don't really lead to happiness. Recent studies have found that people are happiest when they spend money on experiences, like trips or game tickets, instead of material objects.
So what are the challenges and virtues of owning next to nothing? And does he plan to live this way forever?
We hope you'll watch today's Conversation to find out.
Click here to watch more from the Conversation series.
