I sold almost everything I owned before moving abroad. Now, I'm returning home with even less stuff than I packed.

Detailed summary

Before moving abroad for a year, I got rid of most of my clothing, decor, and more. Now I'm getting ready to go home, and realizing I don't miss it.

Just about a year ago, I left my Ottawa apartment, sold most of my belongings, packed up the rest, and moved to Japan with a suitcase and carry-on. Since then, I've brought those same bags to short-term Airbnb rentals across Tokyo, Osaka, Kumamoto, and Saitama. After almost a year, I've stopped missing most of the things I left behind and started loving the flexibility that comes with having so much less. In fact, these days, I'm questioning why I ever needed so much in the first place. I've always been a bit of a "stuff" person. I had an overflowing closet, shelves full of books, and shoes for basically every occasion, including some I wore only once or twice a year.

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