Minimalism, as we know it today, is different from its beginning. It started as an art form in the 1960s until it eventually seeped into products, lifestyle, and design. Recently, more and more people are becoming attracted to the minimalist lifestyle, especially among millennials.
According to studies, the younger generation is more into how they live their life instead of the material things life offers. Regardless is this is due to personal preference or economic situation, younger individuals love and discover the joys of minimalist living.
What is minimalist living?
Living the minimalist way is synonymous with living a simpler life. It involves decluttering and removing unnecessary items in life. Though the term has not been coined in the early years, some individuals have already practiced minimalism. For instance, Buddhists have been practicing freeing themselves from material possessions.
The minimalist movement only began mainstream in the 20th century. Because of Marie Kondo and the tiny house movement, minimalism has presently gained popularity again. More and more people have started to realize that less is more.
The goal of minimalism
A minimalist’s goal is to find fulfillment in things that matter. Kondo puts this as keeping this that sparks joy and discarding those items that do not. However, minimalism is beyond material possessions.
Based on experts, a minimalist lifestyle is an intentional choice to live a simpler life. Aside from removing excess items, some apply minimalism in doing less and finding more free time for hobbies and activities one is passionate about. At the same time, living a minimalist life enables one to spend more time with the people they love.
Therefore, a minimalist way of living is a state of mind. It is finding satisfaction in the things you have and living a stress-free life regardless of what you do not have. The lifestyle is about finding value in oneself and making sound decisions based on what is essential.
How minimalism improves life
For some, minimalism means sacrifice and letting go of the modern conveniences in life. Because of this, some may think twice about adopting a minimalist lifestyle. However, a minimalist lifestyle does not hinder convenient living; instead, it is designed to improve a person’s life.
It helps people breathe.
Getting rid of unnecessary stuff inside the home can lead to more space. More space means plenty of room to breathe and move around. Moreover, you will feel the change internally, too; by letting go of things you no longer need, you will feel lighter and free of reminders of the past that may have been weighing you down.
It helps one refocus.
A cluttered space may influence a cluttered mind. Disorganization can cause one to lose focus. In addition, having too many things in a limited space can be stressful. These items may be a reminder of how you spent your money on unnecessary things. It can also be stressful looking for necessary things when hidden in all the pile of items you have at home.
Removing all the clutter and unnecessary things may help one find focus. By observing a minimalist way of living, you can focus your attention on more important matters rather than spending time stressing about all the clutter in your home.
How to Get Started with a Minimalist Lifestyle
Are you convinced about starting a minimalist lifestyle? There are a few steps you can take to get started. First, make sure to rent a dumpster to properly dispose of the things you no longer need. But as discussed, minimalism is beyond discarding material possessions; it is about rehauling an entire lifestyle that may involve one’s diet, home, business, and health.
Take your time
Minimalism may be a radical change for most. Therefore, do not pressure yourself to make a sudden shift. Prepare yourself by thinking thoroughly about what you and your family needs. Minimalism may take constant experimentation on what works for you.
Different people have different needs, so there is no clear-cut guideline on how you will live a minimalist lifestyle. Only you can define it.
Find your reason
Finding why you want to pursue a minimalist lifestyle is your motivation to push your plans through. To make it concrete and serve as a constant reminder, write it down. Your motivation is what will keep you going in times when you find minimalist living difficult.
Just remember why you are doing this.
It’s not for everyone
Some people find joy in a minimalist way of living while others do not. It is always a matter of choice. What matters is that a person lives a lifestyle that will make them happier and make life more enjoyable.
