There are an endless number of self-help books at the library that are dedicated to creating a minimalist lifestyle. It has definitely become one of the biggest trends, and the reason for that is simple. We often spend too much time caring about material possessions, and spending money on said possessions, rather than focusing on experiences and creating new memories. While we’re not against buying new things (we LOVE a good product release), sometimes we underestimate the importance of letting go of the unnecessary.
So maybe you have decided you need to embrace the minimalist lifestyle but you don’t know where to start. Well, we get it — sometimes less is more, and minimalism can give us a sense of clarity and freedom. That’s why we’re sharing a few top tips, and we promise these should at least work to create more order in your life, which especially helps create a more positive, well-balanced environment without distractions.
Declutter, declutter, declutter
You’ve probably already thought about this dreadful task, so let’s get it out of the way first. It’s likely that you will do everything in your power to procrastinate here but it’s the most crucial step. Start with one area, finish it, then move on to the next. Have you used this item in the past 6 months? In the past year? Will you use it within the next year? Ask yourself these questions to eliminate as much as possible and repeat until you’ve managed to keep only the things that you know you’ll likely use. Dedicate one box for the stuff that you can't bring yourself to throw away, the one full of memories and that you probably won't use again… now keep that box tucked away!
Don’t try to do this all in one day (unless you’re really up for the challenge). Our goal is to minimize and de-stress here, remember?
Use up your fave products!
Use the entire product before you try a new one, and get rid of the ones you don’t like! We’re all guilty of keeping products we don’t use because they just didn’t work for us — why not give them to someone or toss them? Keep up that anti-clutter streak.
Buy clothing staples only
Next time you go shopping, think about how you can wear that top in 3-5 different ways. If you can’t, put it back. It’s a difficult process if you love picking out items for specific occasions, but the more you practice this strategy, the simpler it gets. Plus, your wardrobe aesthetic will thank you. It’s good to be a little picky sometimes.
Carry one bag
If you think about it, you really don’t need to be switching up your bag every day. Simple and classic are the keywords here. Choose a neutral tote or satchel and carry only your everyday necessities in it. “The more the merrier” does not apply in this particular case!
Opt-out of mail statements
Don’t bother with regular mail — it’s a waste of paper! And, it adds up too quickly and almost always gets abandoned on your kitchen counter. Right on top of the mail you received last week. Switch over to online statements, that way it’s all in one place: the little pocket book we have access to anywhere and everywhere.
Design a simple morning and evening routine
It could be something as simple as having your coffee ground and ready to go in the coffee maker before bed, so all you have to do is press the “brew” button in the morning. Find a personal routine that works best for you and try to stick to it. Evaluate whether you have any daily practices that weigh you down — then forget about them. Keep it simple, make it effective, and create minimalism in your home routine.
Choose 5 easy and nutritious meals
We like having well rounded meals that we know won’t get old — that way it’s easy to rotate between 5 and make variations of the same meals. You can plan your groceries accordingly, not have to worry about the extra step of deciding what’s for dinner everyday, and you know you’ll be getting the proper nutrition for your body, mind, and general health.
Mental health is important too
While it’s not technically a “how-to” on living minimally, you need to be in a great state of mind to follow these steps daily. We like to take time to de-clutter not only our home, but our mind as well. Maybe a hot cup of green tea will do the trick, or stretch yoga to start your day and open up those airways before a busy schedule. Why not try stretching or meditation for a few minutes before bed? Find a simple hobby or practice that brings you joy and make it a part of your routine.
Embracing the minimalist lifestyle can be an extremely healthy change for yourself, for your home, and for others around you. It’s a lifestyle worth trying out to see if it works for you.
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