Logan Voss
CITATION: “© [Pexels] / Pixabay”
Many people believe that minimalism is all about getting rid of the things in one’s life that they can’t fit into a backpack. This belief couldn’t be further from the truth. Living minimally doesn’t mean you have to own the bare minimum; it just requires that everything you possess serves an important purpose in your life.
A minimalist lifestyle can help you save money, time, and the environment. If you are intrigued by the idea of living a life of quality over quantity, here are some minimalist living tips to help you get started.
Declutter
Determine which possessions you use on a regular basis, and get rid of everything that doesn’t serve a significant purpose in your life. If you discover that your closet is filled with shirts that you haven’t worn in over year, it’s time to donate them. You should declutter your home at least once every season.
Borrow, Don’t Buy
If you have to attend a one-night event, ask a friend if you can borrow their dress or suit. The same goes for books and movies. A library card to your public library will grant you access to a huge variety of books without sacrificing all of your shelf space—and some libraries even have movies!
If You Have to Buy, Buy Intentionally
Don’t undo all the hard work it took to declutter your home by slowly filling it back up with unnecessary items. Before you buy something new, ask yourself if it will bring value to your life—and always think long term. Will you still like it in a year? What about two years from now? Minimalism is all about quality over quantity, so try to avoid purchasing fast fashion or trendy items.
Minimize Grocery Shopping
Minimalism can also apply to your diet. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, America wastes around 30–40 percent of its food. To avoid spending money on food that you’ll most likely just end up tossing in the trash, only buy what you need.
By following these minimalist living tips, you’re on your way toward financial freedom and a more stress-free life.
