One reason some people resist minimalism is they are afraid they will have to get rid of things that make their home pleasant and/or a comfortable place to live.
Is that true? Does minimalism make us less comfortable at home or does it make us more comfortable?
You probably know my answer already. But let me ask you some questions:
How would you rather spend a rainy Saturday afternoon?
A. Doing what your spouse has been asking you to do—straighten up the storage room where your family keeps its board games, toys, puzzles, sports equipment, and electronic games both new and obsolete—even though it seems like you just did that last week?
B. Doing something that makes you feel cozy inside, such as looking at a photo album with your kids, sitting by the fire in your recliner, or enjoying a movie on television.
Which gives you more of a sense of relaxation and peace?
A. A home that’s crowded and messy, where everywhere you look something reminds you of cleaning or repairs that need to be done?
B. A home with clean counters, floors and walls that present open vistas, and everything put away in its place?
What’s a better use of your time and prevents frustration when you’re looking for an ice cream scoop in your kitchen?
A. Peering behind leaning towers of Tupperware, pushing aside unnecessary gadgets (banana slicer, anyone?), and digging through drawers filled with such things as duplicate measuring cups and salad tongs in several styles.
B. Being able to put your hands right on the ice cream scoop because there’s nothing extraneous in your kitchen and you know right where the scoop is.
If you’re getting ready to minimize your home, let me assure you—you don’t have to immediately get rid of the things you love or use. I have found, most often, that the optimal amount of things for your home is less than the number you currently own. But it often takes some time to get there.
More importantly, realize today that after minimizing, your home will feel more like a place you want to come back to at the end of the day. It will be a home filled with more intentionality and more purpose.
Minimalism does not require you to sacrifice comfort or pleasantry. Quite the opposite, in fact. It will help you feel even more comfortable in your own home.
Anna says
I agree. Minimalism doesn’t result in a sparse living environment. I do think there aren’t enough examples of real, reasonably priced minimalist homes in the online world. If you look for decluttering images you’ll find expensive-looking rooms and decor (and yes, I’m guilty of using these images on my blog too; I just love the aesthetic). I really love following people who showcase real-life minimalism that isn’t perfectly designed. It still creates breathing room and a peaceful feeling and that is super important to me.
Marisel Hernandez says
Thank you for such great articles! Is definitely a work in process for me to continue to minimize specially living with the rest of the family, whom I have to constantly persuade to make some changes around the house. Sometimes it seems like it takes so much effort from my part to get them on board with the de-cluttering and minimizing journey. Any articles or suggestions on how to not get so overwhelmed by this? Thank you!
Ann C says
I would recommend taking time with each person (I’m assuming children and spouse) and going thru their personal belongings: clothes, toys, books, sports equipment etc. talking with them about why you are doing it, your feelings of freedom, the ease of maintaining a clean room, whatever your motivation is. Take your time, it doesn’t have to be done quickly. I did the Marie Kondo Tidying Up a couple years ago. But this year I purchased Joshua Becker book The Minimalist Home and have gotten rid of much more! Hang in there and be proud of whatever you accomplish. Your family will see your example.
Gail says
I started clearing my house in Oct. it has been an experience. We were in the Navy for 23 years and I have so many things that I have gotten over the years from all around the world. I made it easier to get rid of some by asking my kids if they would want them when I was gone. Those they said yes to I will hold on to longer, those they had no interest I gave to good friends or donated to a mission here that helps people start apt. and find jobs. I am ashamed to say that I have gotten rid of 16 garbage bags and 7 huge boxes. I still have that again to go thru. You are helping. Thanks.
Lamorenix says
I am very happy you are feeling great with your home. Many of us feel that shame but don’t. Better now than never. Now is the best time :)
Glen says
Minimalism is a concept that my wife and I have embraced much of our lives. People would come into our home and sometimes call it “Spartan”. Then a couple of years ago we were formally introduced to the concept of minimization. It formalized what we had been doing and helped push us even farther. What I realized though, was that minimization is far more that just getting thing out of your house that detract or act as a hinderance from the things you want to do or enjoy. Minimization is a way of life, something that permeates into all aspects of ones life: physical, social, mental and spiritual. Our homes may look nice, clean and minimal, while our lives are a mess. So many things can clutter up these different aspects of one’s life. The other thing that I have learned is that this is a life long process. IT is not static. There is no neutral. Either you are moving ahead or you are sliding back. Moving ahead feels good. Sliding back does not! Thank you Josh and all other contributors for your insights. Living with less is truly LIVING MORE.
Joy Bier says
Your emails are so so encouraging and motivating, Josh. Thanks so much for all you do!
Judy says
I am getting there! I was going to purge more during these down winter months and came up with only two boxes to give away. Yay! I enjoy getting up, making our bed, dusting and vacuuming in a very short time ….sometimes even before that first cup of coffee. I am friends with our bedroom. I feel the same with over half of our home now. I want our home to be comfy and easy as we start our new journey into retirement. I have been blessed to have a husband who notices the difference and enjoys making joint decisions on some items we question their value in our future lifestyle. We chose to totally empty a couple of rooms….down to the walls and floors and only returned the items we were keeping. We have lived in a small home (1000 sq.ft. and full basement) for 46 years so we dont have to down size to a smaller house. We have even purged our kitchen and replaced cookware and dishes to a smaller set and a fresh start. I am so happy we decided to start this journey at this point in our lives. It has been a journey that has breathed new life into our future. We can start to enjoy even more all the things we love like gardening, day trips, tailgate picnics and visiting with family and friends and all the other great hopes and dreams we look forward to enjoying. Living with less definitely adds to your life….
Jessica says
I appreciate your sharing this inspiring story!
Samantha says
This was me yesterday! A cold snowy day I said to my two boys aged 2 and 6, we can just play all day! However it took me 2 hours to “make room” for us to play in our crowded playroom in the basement…so they watched tv instead while I “sorted”. Ended up getting 3 large garbage bags of stuff to donate and moved some larger items (play kitchen, etc) they don’t use anymore out. Now hopefully next time we want to “play” we will actually get to do it!
Thank you for your great emails….really made me see things differently….I’ve always been good with purging the closets on a regular basis but finally we’ve made a substantial change in the amount of toys & books and “kitsch”. Never buying another Knick knack, fake plant, picture frame or throw pillow!!! We’re in a townhouse so space and “storage” are at an absolute minimum. Just hard to swallow when I see all the stuff then see my bank statement. It’s an “aha” moment let me tell you!! Thank you!
Sandra Richardson says
I can honestly say, for the first time in my life, that I know where everything in my home is including all paperwork. It has taken us about 3 years to get to this point, but the peace of mind and reduction in stress it has brought has been worth every minute.
Also, I no longer cringe when the doorbell rings because I can now invite people in and not worry about the clutter/mess that used to be lying around.
Thanks so much, Joshua, for helping me on this journey!
Judy says
So true, Joshua! :)
Linda Sand says
My minimalist living room has several throw pillows and lap rugs to keep us comfy during our Minnesota winters. After all, who doesn’t love curling up with a good book even if that book is an e-book because you got rid of all your bookcases?
HollyG says
Omg! Getting rid of books? Never. Nothing is better than the tactic feel of real pages, having one’s eyes resting on words printed on paper and experiencing, for once, a non-intrusion of technology that rules almost every facet of our life. Instead, get rid of iPads, smart phones, etc., all devices that have made us skates to the detriment of any sort of one-on-one social, personal interaction with the real world.
HollyG says
Meant to type “slaves.”
Elizabeth says
I don’t understand the obsession with owning paper books! Why would I keep a book that I read, at most, every few years when I can just get it from the library when the mood strikes? Maybe everyone has crappy libraries? My library system is awesome and I’ve rarely had a hard time getting a book I want. I guess I should count myself lucky.
It seems most people agree with you, Holly. Personally, I love not having book clutter. *gasp* Isn’t it great that we each get to have the home we desire!?
Linda’s explanation sounds great to me!
Mama Squirrel says
Some of us do much of our reading from that twilight world of books that are too old or too “niche” to be in mainstream libraries, but too new to be public domain and readily available online. Many older but wonderful children’s books are also in this category. I use e-books too, but won’t be getting rid of my paper treasures anytime soon.
Mama Squirrel says
I tried to respond to this yesterday but I think it got lost in cyberspace.
I sort books at a thrift store, and I do agree that there are probably too many books out there, of the sort that are (agreed) easily replaceable or borrowable.
However, some of us do much of our reading in that twilight zone of books that are old enough to be out of print, but too new to be public domain and readily available online, or too “niche” to be in most mainstream collections. Many wonderful children’s books fall into this area. I do read e-books, but I’m not getting rid of my paper treasures either. I often loan them out to friends, but they come home eventually.
And finally, good writers and publishers and booksellers need to be supported too. Buying new books is not an argument for keeping them forever, but it does concern me when people say they never do so out of minimalist principles.
Mary says
I soooooo agree with you. We are in a tech overload world. I do donate my books after I read them though unless it is one I want to refer back to.
Elizabeth says
Well, I will point out that the four of us wouldn’t be having this conversation without technology. I think it’s great that I get to hear opinions from Minnesota, and wherever you live – Holly and Mary. :)
Iva says
I had my doubts before, but I would say the experience of reading an e-book is really close to reading a physical book. No adds or other interruptions, no screen glare, the only difference is the lack of sound and smell coming from paper. But on the other side, much less clutter and when I travel I don’t need to decide which book to take with me, I have them all ;)
laura ann says
I got rid of books several years back, gave some to a library, lots of online reading now, bookcases were donated. I still have several ref. type books. I use non glare blue blocker (free) on windows 10. Culled out music CD’s, DVD’s.
Wally says
Yeah, I had several hundred books and have donated to the library or given away. Honestly, I don’t miss them like I thought I would and have freed up so much space. I kept 7 books that I often go back to read. I never buy books anymore but use the local library for what I need. A freeing experience.
Pauline says
Using the library is a “ freeing experience “
Jane zendarski says
I agree. I love holding a book. And I agree also with Holly-get the book from the library or borrow it from a relative or friend or those little boxes in front of churches and other places.