A minimalist lifestyle will simplify the way you are living, but at the same time, it will enrich your life. Here you can see some easy ways to become a minimalist, and you will learn that it does not necessarily mean that you should give up everything you own. For whatever reason you decide to start to live simpler, there are clever ways to get rid of unwanted stuff. Before you start, make sure if this is the right way for you – it can be beneficial for several things like financial problems, stress, and it saves time when cleaning.
Become a minimalist by doing something simple like decluttering
The best way to be minimalist is to start by taking a small step. You don’t have to rush into anything, and it will be a lot more satisfying if you make the right choices. Decluttering is something that people usually do maybe once or twice a year, or not even then. The first rule of minimalism is to get rid of extras in your life. This refers to clothes, furniture, kitchen utensils, cosmetics, etc.
It is always best to start with shoes and bags
Declutter room by room
It sounds simple when you think about decluttering your entire home. However, it really isn’t, especially if you are just starting and you are not sure yet if you want to be a minimalist. The first thing you will realize once you begin to throw out unnecessary stuff from your home is that it will seem like you need almost everything you want to throw out. The rule of one year is excellent for this situation. It says: if you haven’t used it for a year, you don’t need it.
Of course, it is mainly for clothes, decorations, and even furniture. Don’t throw out any valuable items. Take the time to declutter slowly and carefully. Room by room system is a great way to stay on top of the mess. Start with one room, and when you finish decluttering, go to the next one. This way, you will have almost a clean home during the process. But more importantly, you will not be overwhelmed with enormous piles of your belongings all over your house.
Another great tip to clear out your living space is to pack your belongings and place them in a storage unit. It could be just until you are entirely sure that minimalism is the right way for you. Make sure that you store your belongings in a clever way and save both money and space.
Most important benefits that can help you decide to become a minimalist
It takes a while to get used to the idea that you don’ need too much stuff to be happy and satisfied. People tend to get emotional and attached to material things. When you think about it, living with less can be a great thing. These are just a few basic benefits for you to become a minimalist:
- If you stop spending money on clothes, decorations, and other items that are not essential, you will have more money. Think about minimalism as a way to save up some more cash. How many times did you buy something you don’t even need? Many of us go to the store to buy some food and end up with a few more unnecessary items. It is all right to buy something you really need or want, but it is a great way to avoid an impulse buy.
You could spend your money on travel or experiences, instead of on irrelevant stuff.
- Buying less is also good for the environment. Actually, this is one of the most important reasons why minimalism is so popular in the last couple of years. When you buy less, you will probably produce less waste. 2021 is the perfect time to start living green and be more environmentally friendly if you aren’t already.
With minimal shopping, you will produce less waste
- It will save you time by having less to clean. For some of you, maybe this is not too important. But you have the opportunity to use your spare time better. If you have less furniture, fewer decorations, clothes, and other things, you will definitely spend way less time cleaning. Instead of tidying and cleaning, you could spend your time enjoying your life by doing something else that you like for a change. Also, make sure that you previously organize your entire house.
You need to consider the downsides of minimalism as well
Minimalism, most definitely, is not a suitable way of life for everybody. Some people think that it is the best for single people or couples. It can be tricky if you are a family with kids. If you are trying to buy fewer toys or clothes and you have small children, you will face hard times. When your kids are little, you surely need more clothes and various other items – so you can make your lives a little easier. However, if you start leading a minimalist lifestyle before they are all grown up, you could raise them to acknowledge and accept this way of life. At least, it will save you from suffocating in massive toy eruptions during holidays and birthdays. If you are brave enough, you could hire an organizer and try to reorganize your family life with professional help. A pair of fresh eyes could be helpful if you are serious about leading a minimalist lifestyle.
It is not easy to become a minimalist when you have small kids
Don’t exclude your kitchen and meal plans
When people think about minimalism, they usually think only about clothes and similar items. Do not forget the kitchen and food. If you don’t cook often, make sure that you clear out your kitchen and leave only the necessary utensils and cookware. Another thing to have in mind if you really want to become a minimalist is to avoid buying food in bulk. Yes, you will probably get better deals if you buy in bulk. But you will also have much more food waste. Think about your meal plan and diet and purchase food accordingly.
