How accessible is minimalism?
Debunking the myth that minimalism is only for the wealthy
“Our priorities are showcased not by what we say but by how we spend our days.” — Joshua Fields Millburn
How accessible is minimalism?
Living with less is often seen as a privilege—something only accessible to those who can afford to give things up. But at its core, simplifying life isn’t about designer furniture, trendy decluttering techniques, or perfectly curated spaces. It’s about making intentional choices with what we have.
For many, paring down isn’t a lifestyle upgrade; it’s a necessity. Owning less isn’t always about aesthetics—it’s about survival, prioritizing needs over wants, and making the most of limited resources. Choosing a simpler path isn’t about wealth, but about valuing what truly matters, regardless of financial status.
A more intentional life is accessible because it’s not about what you buy—it’s about what you choose to keep. It’s about finding freedom in simplicity, no matter your income level. You don’t need a Pinterest-perfect home to embrace this mindset. You just need a shift in perspective.
Living with intention isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to focus on what truly adds value and let go of the excess.
Words by Carl Barenbrug
00: Exploring minimalism, one piece at a time
Our premium newsletter continues to dive deeper into the nuances of minimalism—offering original essays, philosophical reflections, and case studies that explore its intersections with creativity, culture, consumerism, and considered cultivation.
If you haven’t yet subscribed, you can access our latest essays—including the most recent edition—by joining for $5 per month or $50 per year. Our next premium essay arrives on 12 March.
01: Journal
Read entries from the archive of the Minimalism Life® community journal
Uncluttered — A twelve-week roadmap to help you rediscover the home you love underneath the stuff
Words by Joshua Fields Millburn
A social minimalist — How owning less freed up my time, money, and confidence to do more
Words by Theo Drijver
Why I love saying no — The importance of creating space for what you value in life
Words by Thomas Hamlin
Share your story
Do you have an interesting story you would like to share on minimalism.com? We want to read about it. You have the opportunity write about your experience of how minimalism has impacted your life and get your words published in our community journal.
02: Minimal art
From our curated gallery
03: Minimal design
Explore our list of curated design resources
Sigma BF camera (hardware)
A conversation with Kazushige Miyake (interview)
04: Minimal lifestyle
Explore our list of curated lifestyle resources for simple living
Touch grass: app (tool)
05: Shop
Discover our hand-picked minimalist products in the Minimalism Life® shop
06: Brands anchored by simplicity and sustainability
Minimalism can be about frugality and owning less, but it can also be about supporting ethical brands with sustainability at their core. Here’s several that you might be interested learning more about:
CLAE: Minimalist footwear from LA
Stiksen: Premium caps from Sweden
Collars&Co: Minimalist polo shirts
Dalgado: Timeless accessories made to last
JAK: Portuguese leather sneakers
Nordic Knots: Rugs inspired by the beauty of the Nordic light
Oliver Cabell: Minimalist Italian footwear and accessories
CDLP: Luxury essentials
The Resort Co: Eco-conscious and artisan vacation wear
Steele & Borough: Vegan, lightweight and water repellant bags
Escuyer: Accessories designed in Brussels
Wahts: Minimal monochromatic menswear
Meller: Minimal shades
Void Watches: Simple Swedish timepieces
Floyd: Unique and distinctive travel cases
ASKET: Ending fast fashion by making covetable everyday essentials
Mismo: Bags and accessories from natural materials
Discover more minimal brands on minimalism.com