The surprising lesson a retro computer game taught me about joy

As we downsize i'm finding some things I'd half-forgotten I own. Like this retro Casio handheld computer game.

I decided to sell it - especially as it turns out they are a bit of a collector's item. I mentioned this to a computer-game-loving friend of mine. He suggested I hold on to it for "investment value but also because it's cool to have old stuff like this" but also said to put it online if I "really need the space".

That last bit got me thinking. It's not really about the space - the game's only the size of a mobile phone. We have sold more than 200 items now, so I guess the space adds up. But the amount of space wasn't a big driving factor.

The famous Kon Mari method says to give away things that doesn't bring you joy. I think I would adjust that slightly. This game still brings me a little joy. I play it for a minute or two every couple of years when I stumble across it - often when looking for something else in that drawer. But is that worth keeping it for?

I've figured out that part of my motivation is about increasing joy. At the moment it brings me a little joy. But it could be a real blessing to someone who really appreciates it. Sure I'll miss out slightly, but the sale price will make up for that and someone else can get the joy the game was designed to give.

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But wait... there's less!

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