Being a minimalist is not my greatest goal in life. It is not my greatest obsession. I dream much bigger dreams for my life.
I am passionate about my soul, my wife, my kids, my friends, solving problems, and influencing others for good. I want to live a significant life that makes the most of the potential and opportunities I have been given.
I will focus on these priorities above everything else. They are the most important to me and the most important for the world around me.
In short: I am a husband, a father, and a human being first. I am a minimalist second.
This is not to discount the lifestyle I have chosen and have dedicated the last ten years of my life to promoting.
Minimalism is a means to that very end.
Minimalism removes physical distractions so my greatest priorities can be elevated. It allows my life to be defined by eternal pursuits, those dreams that will long outlast me, not by the physical possessions in my home.
Minimalism is a means to an end, but it is not the end itself.
Minimalism simplifies life. It focuses our energies on things that matter. But obsessing about minimalism begins to complicate it again. And I refuse to allow possessions to define my life—not the collection of them or the removal of them. My desire is that my possessions will never be a burden to me, whether in abundance or lack.
At the end of my life, I want to hear my children say, “You were a good father,” not “you were good at being a minimalist.” I want people to remember me as a friend and servant and someone who stayed focused on the needs of others, not as “a minimalist.”
Therefore, I choose minimalism. But it will never become an obsession. It will define my lifestyle, but not my life.
I invite you: Dream big dreams with your life. Dream bigger dreams than minimalism. Pursue greater achievements with your newfound time, energy, and money.
Minimalism is not the finish line. It is only a manner of arriving there.
Landon Lee Kimbrough says
Thank you again for your wisdom!
Suzie Schnelker says
Thank you Josh for inspiring me to pursue a minimalist lifestyle. You Have an encouraging heart. May you be blessed far more than you could ever hope for or imagine.
Anne Daniel says
Exactly!
Miriam says
Beautiful dream, beautifully stated!
Peter says
Love the article. It got to the core where minimalism should be at in one’s life. It’s not the be-it-all and end-it-all. This is the perspective we should be looking at when it comes to minimalism.
Marvin says
Thank you Josh. This certainly puts things into perspective and differentiates your from some other minimalist I have followed. Personally, my focus is on being all I am designed to be by my creator- God.
Many have stated minimalism is only for middle and upper class individuals but this perspective is inclusive of all mankind if they choose to pursue it.
Sandpebble says
I agree whole-heartedly, Marviin! God first in the whole scheme of things. The rest falls neatly into place by Design. Nice perspective Josh has . . . a point.
Judy says
True! :)
Broke Bloke says
You have been a huge influence Josh. I’ve learned so much about minimalism. Of course I’ve adapted to my life and how I can manage things. For someone who suffers from OCD. Its a great deal to not have to worry about 101 things and keep it simple.
A clear mind makes room for new dreams.
choose simple says
This post is on point! Thank you for sharing, Joshua.
Patty says
Sure, iT is! From Holland!
Amk says
Yes! Thank you for the reminder and perspective.
Mounia Joudi says
gorgeous…thank you for the beautiful words. that’s exactly what I needed to clarify and confirm to myself.
Tim L says
One of the best JB postings that I’ve read…well said!