The What and Why of Minimalism
Do you have a lot of things? Books, magazines, shoes?
Do you love all of these things?
Do you enjoy cleaning the dust off of them?
Do you admire the beauty of your home every day?
I certainly don't do any of those things, and I have mountains of stuff. Every room in my house has something in it that I don't want. So the only logical thing to do would be to get rid of these unwanted things? Right?
I am at the beginning of my minimalist journey. I have a long way to go, but I have learned a lot about myself and how I live already.
My reasons for pursuing minimalism.
Money. I spend a lot of money, too much money. By realizing that I need less, and that my material possessions don't define me, I have saved money. Now I can use that money to save for my future, eat at an amazing restaurant, or spend it on experiences with my loved ones.
Stress. The things I own cause me stress. I'm constantly organizing, cleaning, and moving around my clutter. Just imagine yourself coming home after a long day, walking into your clean and clear living room, and feeling relaxed. The stacks of magazines, unfinished journals, and books that surround me just cause me to feel anxious and stressed. I eliminate this stress by practicing minimalism.
Freedom. I feel free. I can go wherever I want, without feeling weighed down by a bulging purse. With less things, I spend less time cleaning and organizing, and more time living. The money I save gives me freedom. I have more in my bank, and therefore more opportunities to experience life.
Creativity. I used to think that holding onto hundreds of pieces of paper and notes helped me create better. I would jot down my ideas on everything from gum wrappers to backs of recipes, and I would hide these little papers everywhere. But without the clutter, and the stress created by all my useless possessions, I can finally think clearly. I have more time to focus on my mind, and my art.
Sources of Minimalist Wisdom
I first heard of minimalism through reading blogs and articles online. So here I share my favorite sources of minimalist wisdom. I hope these amazing minimalist help guide you like they guided me.
Rowdy Kittens - This woman is a wealth of information on everything related to simple living. Her blog is insightful and a great read.
Be More With Less - When I first starting researching minimalism I found this blog. The writing of this blog is easy to relate to, and her articles are always interesting. A would consider this a great place to start.
Mnmlist - Leo Babauta is a very inspirational Minimalist. He has 6 children and still manages to stay so minimalist, and so brilliant. His website is definitely worth reading.
How do I start?
Starting slow is the key to success in becoming a minimalist.
Spend a little time reading about minimalist, learn more about the mindset you have to have to become one.
Start with one project at a time. Don't try to get rid of everything you own at once. Just start with one shelf of your closet, then move onto the floor. Donate or sell what you don't need to have, and feel the weight of your clutter slowly lift away.
Spend some time creating and living. Clear out that one shelf or drawer or closet, and then spend some time outside. Make room in your life to de-stress.
Don't rush. It's not a race to be the perfect minimalist. The point of this journey to find peace and relaxation. So relax, and enjoy the process of changing your life for the better.
Minimalist Reading Materials
Reading everything you can about minimalism, and the mindset that goes with it will help you in your journey to a simpler, happier life.
Smalltopia by Tammy Strobel is a great read, so is her other ebook Simply Car-Free.
The Simple Guide to a Minimalist Life by Leo Babauta is a wonderful place to start with your reading. I found this book insightful, and inspiring. It really helped me focus and understand why minimalism is the way to live.
Inside-Out Simplicity by Joshua Becker is another great book to read. This book will challenge you and encourage you to find a simpler life.
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