Embracing Minimalism: Transform Your Space and Mindset with Simple Steps
As I work my regular job, I must have something playing in the background to help make the day more bearable. This constant stimulation cannot be good for you, but I had several cups of caffeine, so I’m already on my way downhill. Outside my window is as dreary as a small town in Washington, whatever that means. Winter is in the process of passing the torch onto spring, saying, “I brought a terrible freeze that shut down all-mighty Texas. Good luck topping that!” I just hope spring does not accept the challenge.
The videos that I tend to play are random as hell. One video could be of a dude in a backward ballcap telling dark stories about deaths that leave you feeling like the Reaper is always lurking. The next video would be of a vegan living in the Netherlands, showing you how to live a minimalist lifestyle. Hell, I’m always open to new things. I’ve already cleaned my home countless times during this pandemic. Minimalism should help spice up spring cleaning this year.
The YouTube channel is Pick Up Limes, and the host is a nice Canadian woman named Sadia. In each video, she will greet you with a smile and a feeling that perhaps today is not going to be a bad day after all. And if it is going to be a bad day, well, when life gives you limes. After watching her videos, I went down the rabbit hole of Minimalism. There is a ton of stuff about ridding yourself of things that no longer bring you joy.
“The things you own end up owning you.” — Tyler Durden
Now, you should know up front that I’m not a minimalist, but I did incorporate some of the ideas into my life. We are busy folks, so here are the main takeaways from my research into being a minimalist.
1. You don’t have to get rid of everything
The point is to rid yourself of things that no longer serve you, have meaning, or distract you from living intentionally. Look around your room and find what doesn’t serve you. Start small, like with a candle that didn’t burn evenly or a stack of magazines from the Society of American Magicians. Gradually, you can ease into minimalist waters by following a calendar that helps you clear out different areas of your life each day.
2. Ridding what doesn’t serve you includes people too.
Cutting out toxic people can be difficult but necessary for your well-being. Establish boundaries or have honest conversations if the relationship is important. For abusive relationships, seek professional help and resources like the National Domestic Violence Hotline.
3. Don’t force your lifestyle on others.
You can control your space and lead by example. Hopefully, those around you will be inspired by your changes and join you on your minimalist journey.
4. Stop buying crap you don’t need.
Ask yourself if the item you are about to purchase adds value to your life or makes you happy. Use tactics like sleeping on a purchase or making it harder to buy things impulsively.
5. What’s the point of all this?
Minimalism can lead to less stress, more focus, more time, and more money. Everyone’s experience is different, so adjust the lifestyle to suit your needs.
6. The last rule of Minimalism: there are no rules.
There is no strict guide to minimalism. Find what works for you and make it your own. The goal is to live with intent, feel better, and have more freedom.
In conclusion, embrace minimalism in a way that suits your life. Take the steps that resonate with you, and don’t worry about following all the rules. Make this spring cleaning a step towards a more intentional and fulfilling life.
If you enjoyed this post, please give it a clap and share your thoughts in the comments below! Your feedback and experiences with minimalism are valuable and can inspire others on their journey. Let’s create a community of intentional living together!
