I think many people here are confused as to what constitutes "stuff".
In your example, you find your box of bits and tools extremely useful and they make your life better with essentially zero maintenance cost or ownership burden. They take up very little space, and are not big and heavy to move with you.
This is not "stuff" these are valuable things in your life. Keep them!
"Stuff" are usually physical objects you have that probably get a tick in one or more of the following boxes:
a) High cost of ownership (monthly fees, or regular maintenance)
b) Requires payments just to keep/use as intended (still paying it off / satellite radio fee)
b) Big and / or heavy. They take a lot of space to own, and to move with you.
c) You use them infrequently, and don't particularly get enjoyment when you do (the "good" wine glasses for example)
These items you can remove from your life, and you will be happier for not having them.
> You're redefining it to mean "physical things that aren't worth keeping".
Of course, because we're talking about reducing clutter from our lives. So by definition if something is not worth keeping, you should get rid of it.
> what's the name for the "stuff" that is worth keeping?
Sometimes I use the word "possessions", or more verbose, the things I own that I get great enjoyment from.
People seem to think this is all black and white - i.e. OMG, you need to get rid of your bed and toothbrush and soap otherwise you have too much "stuff". Move over into the grey area.
In your example, you find your box of bits and tools extremely useful and they make your life better with essentially zero maintenance cost or ownership burden. They take up very little space, and are not big and heavy to move with you.
This is not "stuff" these are valuable things in your life. Keep them!
"Stuff" are usually physical objects you have that probably get a tick in one or more of the following boxes:
a) High cost of ownership (monthly fees, or regular maintenance)
b) Requires payments just to keep/use as intended (still paying it off / satellite radio fee)
b) Big and / or heavy. They take a lot of space to own, and to move with you.
c) You use them infrequently, and don't particularly get enjoyment when you do (the "good" wine glasses for example)
These items you can remove from your life, and you will be happier for not having them.