The Minimalist

Minimalism– It’s a growing trend worldwide, as more of us seek a simpler life less encumbered with both material and psychological things that hold us back. Is minimalism a passing fad? Or is it a new era in the human psyche and way of living? And what exactly is a minimalist?

The MinimalistWhat is a Minimalist?

A minimalist is a person who makes a conscious decision to live more happily with less. It does not mean living lesser life!

It means living generally not only with fewer material possessions, but also with less debt, fewer financial burdens, and fewer unnecessary expenses. It may mean living in a smaller home, owning less stuff, or making fewer material purchases.

It can also mean eliminating unnecessary obligations, saying goodbye to relationships that no longer serve in a positive way, and making more time for the things in one’s life that really matter. It means living what may seem like a smaller life to some, but one that is personally much richer and more rewarding.

Types of Minimalism

Minimalism is not a “one-size-fits-all” concept. There are different types of minimalism and varying ways to live a minimalist lifestyle. Some of these include:

Minimalist LifestyleEssential Minimalism

relates to a choice to live with the bare minimum. It relates to having less, using less, and whittling one’s possessions down to the basics only. Old or unwanted items may be discarded for better quality, more expensive items, however, these are kept to a bare minimum in quantity.

Aesthetic Minimalism

More appearance focused, this is not necessarily about literally owning less, but being more subdued in what is displayed. It’s about elegance, clean lines, and absolutely no clutter.

Experiential Minimalism

This relates to the philosophy that experiences are more important than things. Fewer material possessions will be owned as money and time are instead spent on experiences such as traveling, eating out, and participating in life through sports, hobbies, etc.

Mindful Minimalism

Getting rid of material items gives one joy. Instead of being triggered by financial, aesthetic or sustainable reasons, minimalism is chosen for the peace of mind it delivers. Eliminating “stuff” also eliminating guilt, and negativity. These minimalists let go of “things” to discover a greater purpose and satisfaction in life.

Sustainable Minimalism

Otherwise known as Eco-minimalism, this focus is on green living, owning more only if it means wanting for less, living off the land, and reducing waste as much as possible. These minimalists will re-purpose and reuse as opposed to buying new.

Thrifty Minimalism

The embrace of minimalism based on financial concerns. This form of minimalism sees people living in tiny homes, holding onto things just in case they are useful later, saving money in any way they can. It’s not necessarily about literally living with less, but spending less.

This is what minimalism really looks like- not a single way of living, but an array of decisions about how to live that minimalist people make to experience their best life for their own circumstances.

Things you’ll Never Find in a Minimalist Home

While minimalism is not a single thing, there are certainly some things you will never find in a minimalist home:

Minimalist
  • Clutter
  • Clashing Decor
  • Excess Nick-Knacks
  • Busy Patterns
  • Fussy Rugs and Cushions
  • An overabundance of flowering indoor plants
  • Bright, competing colors
  • Chintzy or ornate furniture
  • Unnecessary kitchen appliances and accessories on the counter
  • Piles of old magazines or newspapers
  • Cleaning products or appliances left out

In a minimalist home, there is a place for everything and everything is in its place.

Choose Minimalist Living

At its core, minimalism is about being more with less. It is intentional. It is about living with purpose. And it is incredibly liberating. Give it a go and discover your best life.