90s minimalism has returned. New York and Paris runways feature simplicity, cleaner lines and subdued logos. ALT hotels (Ottawa, Quebec, Pearson airport and more) boast an absence of valets, doormen and room service with minimalist rooms featuring Egyptian-cotton sheets and feather pillows. A New York Times article depicted Canadian Graham Hill’s (treehugger.com) contented transition from multiple luxury cars, excessive electronics and a “McMansion” to his spartan 350 sq. foot apartment.

Is this shift a healthy response to increasing stress?

Over the past three years, Statistics Canada reported a 22 percent increase in respondents reporting most days as “extremely or quite a bit stressful”.  A Harris Interactive survey in the US found that 59 percent of 18 to 33 year olds reported that work stress had increased in the past year. Canadians’ consumer debt is at all time high, motivating Finance Minister Flaherty to seek to halt further interest rate reductions on mortgages and loans.

Repeatedly, studies from credible institutions including Princeton, University of Warwick and Cardiff University, all negate the notion that higher income or accumulation of possessions leads to more “happiness”.

Many of my clients have experienced the cathartic emotion resulting from cleaning out the garage; discarding items when moving and de-cluttering and tossing out old office files. In spite of our great abundance of material goods in the western world, we are still “hard-wired” for simplicity. Take 10 minutes and organize your surroundings – your office or your car. Or adopt the practice of removing and donating something from your home every time you bring in something new.

If you found this beneficial, click here for more ideas.