14 Things I Only Own One Of
Let’s talk about the power of having one.
In our culture, we’re often sold the idea that we need a backup pair, variety, or selection of a given item. Since adopting a more minimalist lifestyle a few years ago though, I’ve learned that owning more isn’t always better. In fact, by owning just one of many items, our lives can be enhanced.
When we own less…
We’re able to save by not wasting money on things we don’t truly need.
We can find things when we need them because it’s far easier to keep track of one thing rather than five.
We reduce clutter by not owning more than we realistically need or use.
Over the years, I’ve reduced the number of things I own to the point where I have just a single copy of some items that many people own multiples of. As you read along, keep in mind that this list is what works for me and may not apply to your lifestyle. Use it as an inspiration for living with less and create your own version that suits your needs and lifestyle.
14 Things I Only Own One Of
1. Brush & Comb
I know many people who own multiple brushes and combs because they find themselves constantly misplacing them but I have found that by only having one of each, I’m better able to keep track of them. My one comb doesn’t tend to go missing because I’m more conscious of where I last placed it.
2. Computer
I have ONE computer. No tablet, no desktop computer. Just my MacBook Pro. It’s small enough to bring with me wherever I go but still has a powerful operating system that allows me to get all of my work done on a single device.
3. Perfume
I know there are many people out there who have full perfume COLLECTIONS composed of different scents to match the time of day, occasion, or their mood. I prefer owning a single scent that always suits me and that I love. Having only one perfume means I have one less decision to make when heading out the door.
(If you’re curious, my perfume of choice is “Si” by Giorgio Armani.)
4. Running Shoes
There are a few factors that play into this one. First, I like to get the full use of a shoe. By owning just the one pair, you’re able to use it more frequently so you can wear the item out. Additionally, if you pick a neutral pair, it can match whatever you’re wearing and you won’t feel the need to have a different pair of shoes to match an outfit.
I have one basic and versatile pair of running shoes that I can work out in, go running in, or do virtually anything else in. For me, there’s no need to invest in multiple pairs of running shoes.
5. Watch
I own a single watch from the brand Nordgreen. It’s simple, minimal, and classic so I’ll be able to own and wear it for years. One of the things I love most about it is that even though it is a single watch, I can swap out different bands to make it appropriate for any situation or occasion.
6. Moisturizer
I own one moisturizer — the Acure Day Cream. I don’t own eye cream. I don’t own night cream. I don’t own a cleanser… you get the idea. Using one moisturizer makes my skincare routine simple, quick, and easy. There are so many products you can buy to take care of your skin but I find that a washcloth, water, and moisturizer works best for my skin. Once I started doing this, my skin actually cleared up!
7. Sweatpants
I own one very high-quality pair of sweatpants from Roots Canada. I love wearing them for lounging and sleeping (especially in the winter). They aren’t cheap but they are designed to last for years and are extremely comfortable. This is another area where I’ve opted to invest in a single well-made item rather than multiple cheap sweatpants that quickly wear out.
8. Suitcase
When Christopher and I first got married, we had a weekender bag, our own carry-on suitcases, a gigantic checked back, and other assorted luggage. In the process of simplifying our lives, we realized we didn’t need most of that luggage and either sold or donated it. We have been living with one carry-on suitcase each for a few years now and it works well for us. I’ve traveled for three days and for over a month in my one carry-on suitcase and it has proved to be all I need.
9. Television
Christopher and I enjoy watching a tv show or movie every once in a while but I think it can be dangerous when we start putting TVs and screens everywhere in our lives. So, we’ve chosen to own a single TV, and we keep it in our living room.
10. Makeup
I only own one of each category of makeup. (I own one BB cream, one eyeshadow palette, one mascara, etc.). Over the years, I’ve found a signature makeup look and I do the same thing to get ready every morning. I can get ready quickly and easily because I’m not making a ton of decisions. It prevents decision fatigue (especially in the morning when my brain isn’t working at full speed) and it also saves me money!
11. Sunglasses
Rather than owning several pairs of sunglasses that are cheap and poorly made, I’ve found that only owning one pair of higher-quality sunglasses has made me more conscious of where they are. I find I don’t lose them as often and they’re more durable than the cheaply-made pairs I bought in the past. Keep in mind that high-quality doesn’t necessarily mean expensive. The pair I own now were bought second-hand for less than $20. It’s not so much about price as about the quality.
12. Vehicle
Christopher and I only own one car. When we got married we each brought a car into our marriage. However, since moving to Charlotte (and both of us now working from home), we decided we didn’t actually need two cars and decided to sell it. In the long run, it has not only saved us a lot of money on insurance, maintenance, etc. but it’s also encouraged us to live a healthier lifestyle. I often walk to the grocery store or coffee shop now instead of getting in the car.
13. Kitchen Utensils
I’ve found that it’s easiest to only own one of each kind of kitchen utensil. I don’t need multiple salad tongs, potato peelers, can openers, etc. These items are designed to serve a functional purpose and owning more than one of these items causes unnecessary clutter.
14. Dress Pants
I work from home, so although I go on the occasional business trip or attend professional events, having a wardrobe filled with business attire isn’t something I need. By owning a single pair of black dress pants, I can wear them and simply mix them with different tops and shoes to create a variety of looks. This is a simple and practical decision for me that allows me to own what I need without holding onto excess.
Overall, one of the biggest benefits I’ve noticed of owning less has been that it is far easier to keep track of my possessions. After all, it’s much easier for our brains to remember where a single item is as opposed to multiples. It’s also been helpful to invest in items that will last. I mentioned a few items I own one of that I have invested in a higher-quality item that will last, rather than cheaper versions that will quickly become worn. It may cost more upfront but it will save you money and time in the long-run. Buying more neutral, versatile options can make a big difference and allows you to use a single item in multiple situations.
So there you have it. That’s my little snapshot into a few items that I only own one of. Of course, there are many more that I didn’t mention here but hopefully this gives you some inspiration on ways you might be able to live with less.
Let me know what’s an item that many people own multiples of but that you only own one of in the comments!
