Minimalism is the intentional promotion of the things we most value and the removal of everything that distracts us from it. It requires a conscious decision because it is a countercultural lifestyle that stands against the culture of overconsumption that surrounds us.
The world we live in is not friendly to the pursuit of minimalism. Its tendencies and relentless advertising campaigns call us to acquire more, better, faster, and newer. The journey of finding simplicity requires consistent inspiration.
For that reason, I hope you will make an effort this weekend to find a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy some of these hand-picked articles to encourage more simplicity in your life.
How My Financial Adviser Completely Changed My Perspective on Money | Business Insider by Sarah Von Bargen. There are basically three approaches to saving: You can work more. You can save more. Or you can want less.
25 Things I Learned Selling My Life Possessions | Medium by Adam Jowett. The most precious things have no correlation to how expensive they were when bought.
Compared to… | Seth’s Blog by Seth Godin. Just because a thing can be noticed, or compared, or fretted over doesn’t mean it’s important, or even relevant.
Why I’ve Chosen to Buy Nothing New for 8 Years | Money Saving Mom by Katy Wolk-Stanley. Often, the urge to buy something new is a fleeting impulse.
NFL Wide Receiver, Ryan Broyles and wife live on $60,000/year. Invest the Remaining Millions. | ESPN by Michael Rothstein. By being frugal financially, Ryan has set up future.
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Thank you Joshua for these excellent articles.
I’m into minimalism and reduction of consumption in general, but I really feel overwhelmed with all the things I want to learn, share, and implications to contribute to society (actually I’ve never been so busy and I don’t even have a ”real job”). So I wonder how reconcile minimalism with social implication, and find a balance. Because overconsumption can be in different fields of life ;)
Another Detroit professional ball player…different ball, but still living frugally. Go Tigers!
As always, love the work you do.
http://espn.go.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/12420393/top-blue-jays-prospect-daniel-norris-lives-own-code
Each weekend I always think about the part that says “find a quiet moment with a cup of coffee or tea”, I don’t think a simple life requires either of those things! Must just be me?!
My life absolutely requires coffee.
Amen to that!
I like the atmosphere the phrase evokes. Even if coffee or tea is not your “thing,” I think the idea is to find a place that is soothing for you, and enjoy a few minutes of inspiration. I will admit to enjoying a cup of coffee or tea almost every time I read Joshua’s suggestions. :)
Hey Joshua,
Thanks for the awesome links as always. I look forward to reading the articles every weekend. I found this link about the CEO of Zappos and how he lives in a 250sq ft trailer and thought you and your audience would enjoy it. http://www.complex.com/sneakers/2015/08/zappos-ceo-lives-in-trailer
Best,
Jay Will
The clothing issue is a good one. I simplified my wardrobe years ago to the basics. I also use compatible solid colors to easily mix and match. Tilly quick drying underwear and socks are great for travel. Just wash in your hotel sink and they’re dry in a few hours. You can spend weeks in Europe and only pack two pair of socks and underwear. Great articles, thanks!