“We can’t buy a meaningful life. We can only live it.”
—The Minimalists
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From all of us at Minimalism Life, we’d like to wish you all a joyous, restful, and quiet festive period. This is a time for slow living, quiet reflection, and appreciation for who we have and what we have in our lives. Happy Holidays!
A Merry, Minimalist Christmas
How to enjoy the festive season without losing your mind to consumerism
By Conor Mitchell
I have been a practising Minimalist for six years, and I’ve had my fair share of ups and downs. This isn’t to suggest I fell off some enlightened path to prosperity; Minimalism isn’t a destination to be reached, nor is it some one-size-fits-all philosophy. Still, my dedication to living a life free of the trappings of conspicuous consumption is continuously tempted by the latest gadget and at no time is this temptation as heightened as the festive period we’re entering.
Minimalists aren’t made of stone; we’re as susceptible to advertising like everyone else, and, at times, buying something can provide untold benefits to our life. For example, without having spent my money on a laptop, I could convey the thoughts I’m sharing with you now. By coincidence, I purchased this laptop around this time, three years ago. It was expensive, and I have no issue admitting that I winced when parting with my savings, but I don’t regret buying it; not for a minute!
For those who have only a surface level understanding of Minimalism, you’re probably reading this, thinking “what a hypocrite!” Just another millennial fighting against the economic system that has provided for him and he has benefited from all his life. You’d be wrong, however. The truth is, I love capitalism. No other economic system has enfranchised people to such an extent in all of human history. Sure, it’s not perfect, and over-consumption is a symptom of that. Few people with a knowledge of history would want to overthrow capitalism, but we should fight to bring change to an overwhelmingly beneficial system.
Christmas is a wonderful time to spend time with family and contribute to our fellow man, but, it’s also capitalism in its rawest form. Billions will be spent on meaningless tat that, despite the goodwill connected to the item, will soon find its way to the trash pile. I would make one small suggestion to anyone reading this; give with intention.
Instead of buying your loved one another piece of jewellery or an expensive watch that holds no more value than that of the maker, gift an experience. Go for a meal, spend time with those you love most and don’t allow superfluous stuff to create a divide between you and them.
Choosing a more intentional gift greases the wheel of capitalism, while cutting down on useless waste; something we can all agree is a positive thing. Sometimes things are created and provide bountiful utility to those who buy or receive them, but most don’t. Enjoy the festive season; eat, drink and be merry, for, on the 25th, we’ll yet again be at the mercy of pointless tat.
3 Rules for a Clutter-free Life
What a life as a digital nomad has taught me about accumulating stuff and getting rid of it
By Alexandra Huetter
Five years ago, my husband and I embarked on an incredible adventure of living as digital nomads bouncing back and forth between Europe, South, and Central America. I quickly learned that it might be a life full of new impressions and interesting encounters that would be accompanied by the discomfort of the unknown while traveling from a comfortable town to a new city. Too many times to count, I just wanted to lay on the couch and read a book, not stuff my belongings in a seemingly shrinking backpack, and walk through torrential rain in the middle of the night to catch a bus somewhere.
As time stretched on, my 22kg heavy backpack felt like I’d filled it with stones I found at the beach. During an endless walk in small jungle town in Costa Rica when we couldn’t locate our place to stay for the night, we wandered around in the dark to find a bloody street sign. It was only then when I thought: I packed way too much for this trip. I always do that.
In life, everyone accumulates stuff, be it while traveling or living in a place we call our own. It’s easy to fall into the trap of needing something when we want the newest trinket. Being more mindful when shopping can help, but what really transformed my life into a light and clutter-free one were these three simple rules I began to apply over the years.
Rule 1
Firstly, if you buy something new, throw out (or donate) something old (as long as you no longer value it). Only by doing this can you truly avoid collecting more and more things. Paring down your things is noble and an amazing feat, but can be overwhelming when items continue to come into your home. By implementing the simple “one in, one out” rule, you can maintain the items you have and not feel guilty about bringing in items you truly love.
Rule 2
Secondly, I have found that having a designated space for all belongings is a practical rule. If everything has its designated place, you’re less likely to buy more stuff as you basically know what you have and where to find it. This allows mental clarity and more headspace to think about what truly matters, instead of trying to find your keys in the morning.
Rule 3
Finally, declutter your email inbox, your habits, and relationships regularly to avoid dragging along unnecessary old baggage. Being the most fundamental, free, and authentic person you can become begins with a clear mind and eager heart. Clearing the distractions from your inbox, habits, and relationships can allow the fresh start you need in order to take the first step into authenticity.
By implementing these three simple ideas into my life, I have become a more organized individual with less on my mind. Living simply can take thought and hard work, and is worth it when the outcome is a life filled with mental, physical, and financial freedom.
A Little More of Less
A few other articles we think you might enjoy…
Under the Influence of Impulse by The Minimalists
A Guide to Managing Your Time When You’re Always Behind by Leo Babauta
10 Years of Minimalissimo by Carl MH Barenbrug
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Great one ☝🏼