“Things get more refined as you make mistakes. I’ve had a chance to make a lot of mistakes. Your aesthetics get better as you make mistakes. But the real big thing is: if you’re going to make something, it doesn’t take any more energy—and rarely does it take more money—to make it really great. All it takes is a little more time. And a willingness to do so, a willingness to persevere until it’s really great.” – Steve Jobs
Signal > noise
Cutting through the chaos to find clarity
In a world brimming with constant distractions, the concept of valuing signal over noise has become increasingly significant. This idea isn't just about preferring the serenity of non-urban settings over the relentless chaos of city life, although that's a vivid illustration. It's about recognizing and prioritizing clarity and purpose in our communication and thought processes.
Consider the overwhelming sensory experience of a bustling city: the unceasing traffic, the murmur of crowds, the urban din. This is noise in its most tangible form. It's a sensory overload that can obscure the more meaningful sounds, the 'signal', that we seek. This is why many find a deeper sense of peace and focus in quieter environments, where the important messages aren't lost in the fray.
However, the concept of noise versus signal extends far beyond the literal. It's a potent metaphor for the distractions and irrelevant information that cloud our decision-making, thinking, and understanding. In conversations, whether professional or personal, 'noise' can manifest as irrelevant or low-quality dialog, overshadowing the 'signal'—the valuable, insightful information.
Focusing on the signal amidst the noise is an essential skill, especially in an era where information overload is commonplace. It involves discerning what is truly important, allowing these insights to guide our actions and words. It's about ensuring that when we speak or act, it's with intention and relevance, contributing meaningfully rather than just adding to the discord. In doing so, we not only enhance our own understanding and decision-making, but also elevate the quality of our interactions and discussions.
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01 – A minimalist gift for your loved ones
Available in paperback and eBook formats, Inside Minimalism is a collection of 50 short and relatable essays on simple living by a small team of writers from different backgrounds, but who all share a deep appreciation for minimalism as a way of life.
These books discuss minimalism as a tool and covers many topics such as slow and quiet living, meditative practices, curation, consumerism, and family.
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02 – Community experiences
Read entries from the archive of the Minimalism Life journal:
03 – Podcast
On the latest episode of the Minimalism Life Podcast, New York Times–bestselling author Joshua Fields Millburn reads and discusses his essay "Changing your life won’t change your life".
04 – Share your experiences
Do you have an interesting story you would like to share on minimalism.com? We want to read about it. Here, you have the opportunity to get involved and contribute to our journal.
05 – Found on the web
Other minimal things on the web you might be interested in reading:
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 (less but better). Here’s several that you might be interested learning more about.
Boldr: Minimalist home heating solutions
ODA: The modular everyday bag and essentials
Pedestal: Minimal stands for your screens
OMNES: Sustainable and affordable fashion
Gant Lights: Furniture with an architectural influence
Form & Thread: Mindfully sourced garments
Dalgado: Timeless accessories made to last
Void Watches: Simple Swedish timepieces
Nordic Knots: Rugs inspired by the beauty of the Nordic light
Rent the Runway: Rent designer clothing
Selfmade: Handmade designer eyewear
Wahts: Minimalist, monochromatic men’s fashion
Discover more minimal brands on minimalism.com