Over the past decade, I have read countless (probably in the tens of thousands) blog posts, articles, and books on the topic of minimalism.
I tweet them, share them, and link to my favorites almost every day.
But over the years, I have found there are 7 blog posts/articles I return to over and over again. I have recommended each of these blog posts too many times to count.
There is no “required reading” for minimalism… I encourage you to make it unique to your passions, goals, and family. But if I had to create a list of “recommended reading” for anyone who desires to pursue a minimalist lifestyle, these would be the articles on my list.
7 Blog Posts Every Wannabe Minimalist Should Read
1. A Guide to Creating a Minimalist Home on Zen Habits.
Leo offers 16 steps to creating a minimalist home—enough for anybody to get started on the process. In my opinion, it is the greatest blog post ever written on the subject.
Annie Leonard’s 20-minute video was first produced in 2005. But if you want to better understand how society has manipulated us to overconsume, there is no place better to start. It will forever change how you see shopping and consumer goods.
3. Declutter Your Fantasy Self by Miss Minimalist.
One of the most important realizations we need to make on our journey towards minimalism is the understanding of how our excess possessions distract us from living our best lives. Or, in the case of this important blog post, how possessions keep us from discovering our real selves.
4. Why Fewer Toys Will Benefit Your Kids on Becoming Minimalist.
Minimalism with kids is not easy, but it is possible. And not only is it possible, it is important. Our kids learn from our example every single day. Additionally, there are life-long benefits to helping kids embrace the lifestyle of minimalism. This article serves to inspire parents to consider the benefits of owning less.
5. Project 333 on Be More With Less.
Project 333 is a minimalist fashion challenge that invites people to dress with 33 items or less for 3 months. One of the greatest benefits of the experiment is how it begins to challenge our assumptions about how much stuff we need. The challenge focuses on clothing, but the principles can be applied in countless other areas of life.
6. A No-Frills Kitchen Still Cooks on The New York Times.
Minimalism can be difficult to apply in functional spaces—the home office, the tool shed, the kitchen. We often fall into the trap of thinking that everything we own is needed to accomplish a purpose. But in this highly practical article, Mark Bittman lists exactly what is needed for your kitchen to function… and what is not.
7. 101 Physical Things That Can Be Reduced In Your Home on Becoming Minimalist.
Many people will miss the joys of minimalism because they are afraid to begin. They fear if they remove an item from their home, they will regret it in the future if they need it. This rarely happens. But if that fear describes you, begin the process of embracing a more minimalist home by simply reducing some of the duplicate items in your home. Here’s a list of 101.
Mike says
I think you are spot on. We can lead by example to others. I am reminded every time I see an episode of Hoarders why less stuff is better.
Ana says
This is a great list! Very inspiring writings. I remember watching The Story of Stuff and feeling so overwhelmed with the effects of overconsumption. It’s an eye-opening film.
Bianca says
Thank you for this list, the Story of Stuff, is a such a great video.
Linda says
Lots of good information here as usual. Unfortunately, A couple of the links require sign-ups I’m not willing to do. But, I appreciate your efforts on our behalf, anyway.
Jeanette says
One of the most impactful articles I’ve read on your wonderful, life changing blog (thank you, thank you for what you do) was one about a boy practicing football; working hard and making day to day decisions to reach his goal. The author wrote that he said to a friend that he wanted a nice car, but the friend replied, “no you don’t” and went on to explain that since he was not willing to make the choices that would allow him to reach that goal, he didn’t REALLY want it. Do you remember what I’m talking about? Where can I find that article again? I’d like to share it with my teenagers.
Sun says
I remember this too! So good!
Annie says
I looked at the 101 things article and I’m about to have a panic attack thinking about the mountains of crap in my house. So right yet so overwhelming.
Mari R says
Annie, you are a good person, that’s why you took 101 things article seriously. Let’s try one at a time, then take a break.
Cally says
Thank you!!!
Seana Turner says
Some fellow professional organizers and I run a monthly meet-up called “Minimal Quest” where we explore pursuing minimalism in different aspects of life. We gather for a drink and snacks, and the organizers bring some insight and information, while facilitating conversation. We’ve been having a great time! I will pass along these recommendations to our group. We have, of course, mentioned you several times:) If you are curious, you can check us out at MinimalQuest.com. Have a great day!
Angela says
Thanks Seana, I will take a look
Eric says
Thanks for the list! I’m a fan of Leo Babauta’s 100 Things Challenge.
I came across this challenge way back when, when I was not yet married and did not have kids. I never did the challenge then because I wasn’t in the right mindset. Plus, I was used to moving nearly all my stuff in a few carloads!
Now, married and with kids, this is the perfect time to give it a go!
Jessica says
I agree with the kitchen one, and it makes the biggest impact on my life as a mom of three school age kids. I like to cook and bake, and over the years, people had given me fancy stuff like a stand mixer and glass casserole dishes as well as dozens of cookie cutters. All the stuff made it frustrating to get things out and put things away. I sold the stand mixer, I don’t have any specialty tools, and now I use a glass to make circles for cut-out cookies (we use different frosting or sprinkles for different occasions). It’s a lot easier when the drawer under your oven just has five metal cookie pans and one silicone brownie pan compared to about 20 that cause the drawer to get stuck. The stand mixer was too heavy for me to lift, and we didn’t have a place for it to be out all the time. My hand mixer is fine. I have blender used daily for smoothies. A couple of glass baking dishes that double as casseroles. I can still cook as much, and it’s less frustrating for me!