Embracing Change at 60: A Challenge to Declutter Old Tech

As I approach my 60th birthday, I’ve found myself reflecting on the passage of time and the accumulation of various possessions—particularly those forgotten gadgets tucked away in my closet. It’s high time to address this growing collection of outdated hardware that has been gathering dust.

Many of us can relate to the notion of getting older and perhaps holding onto things that once served a purpose but are now unnecessary. My current mission involves sifting through my stash of computer equipment. While a significant portion will be recycled, I believe that some of these relics still hold potential. The idea of installing Linux on a few of these machines excites me; I have confidence they will perform impressively!

A key motivation behind this project is the desire to spare my daughter the burden of sorting through my belongings when I’m no longer around. Fortunately, I’m in good shape both physically and mentally, which means I’m perfectly capable of tackling this task myself. By taking the initiative to declutter now, I can better organize my usable items and even sell them. Any funds generated could contribute to my grandchildren’s special accounts for toys or activities—what a win-win!

I encourage fellow enthusiasts and fellow hoarders—especially those who may be of the older generation—to join me in this decluttering journey. Let’s not wait for tomorrow to tackle this project; I plan to get started as soon as possible!

Within my collection, I’ve discovered some decent hardware that is well-suited for Linux systems. While the machines may be 15 to 17 years old, they still boast a minimum of 16GB of RAM (I’ve always been one to over-spec my builds!). Today’s technology often requires more than you think, but I’m fortunate to currently have a machine holding a whopping 64GB that I seldom fully utilize.

So, I invite you to rummage through your closets and uncover those hidden gems. Let’s work together to breathe new life into usable computers while responsibly disposing of the rest. It’s a small step that can lead to a big difference, both for our spaces and for future generations. Happy decluttering!