Minimalist Living For the Win

Despite our many technological and scientific advances, modern life has actually become quite complicated. We feel a constant need to be busy and productive, despite the fact that we go to bed exhausted every night for our efforts. This doesn’t mean we have to go off the grid and live in a yurt in the woods, though that does appeal to many! Check out these essential principles for minimalist living.

Declutter

A cluttered home leads to a cluttered mind, so they say. You only have one body, so there’s no need to have 100 outfits. Take some time in each room of your house to see what you can part with, then sell it, trash it, or donate it.

Be Mindful

Think hard when deciding to keep something, as well as when choosing to bring new things into your home. Do you NEED it or do you just WANT it. There’s a big difference. Sometimes, the more we have, the more we want, and we live a life of never feeling satisfied.

In It to Win It

Invest in items that will last. Eschew cheap, disposable items that have a short shelf-life. Materials like leather, metal, and wood have long shelf lives and often look better with wear and tear.

Give It Away

There are always many who would do anything to have your life. If you’re blessed enough to have a lot of belongings, give them away to those in need. In doing so, you’ll gift yourself with warm, fuzzy feelings worth far more than any material item. Your local community most likely has a donation center.

Cherish Your Belongings

Take good care of your things. Instead of replacing, repair. Invest in heirloom-quality things and treat them like gold whether they are or not.

The One In, One Out Rule

Once you’ve pared down, live by the “one in, one out” rule. For every new item you bring in your house, choose one to part with for good.

The minimalist life may seem intimidating at first, but it’s worth the peace of mind of ease of living that comes with it.