Once you realize there are pursuits in life that result in longer-lasting personal satisfaction than collecting physical possessions, you understand 100% of minimalism.
Minimalism is not just the realization that possessions don’t make us happy, it is based on the realization that possessions distract us from happiness. That everything we own requires money, time, focus, attention, and energy—and the more we own, the more distracted we become.
Our finite resources could be better spent elsewhere.
But where? Where should those freed-up resources be spent? Well, that is up to the individual and different people are going to answer that question differently. Some may desire to pursue travel, add to their bank account, or retire early.
But I don’t think any of us will ever regret working to solve problems that we see in the world. And owning less provides that opportunity.
Our money is only as valuable as what we choose to spend it on, and when we choose to use it confronting problems that exist in the world, the potential for our resources grows exponentially.
The reality is that problems exist all around us and there is no shortage of opportunities to make a positive difference in the world: from helping the struggling individual down the street to that crisis on the other side of the planet.
And no doubt we are passionate about different things (which is amazing and wonderful).
But there is one truth that unites us: we all want to make a positive difference in the world.
I am convinced that we all want to be generous. We want to help others and we want to solve problems when we see them.
The problem is, for many of us, we can’t seem to find the margin in our checkbook or calendar to do so.
Minimalism provides the margin.
It provides the opportunity to own less, buy less, care for less, and pursue less.
It frees up resources to help the single parent down the street, the co-worker struggling with medical bills, the local nonprofit serving your community, or that worldwide cause you are so passionate about.
The most significant difference we can make with our lives is to lean into our passion and solve problems where and when we see them.
Minimalism allows us to do that in ways we never dreamt possible.
Own less stuff. Solve more problems in the world instead. (tweet that)
Jonah Mose says
Thank you for the article, it really inspired me.
Bob Halverson says
I believe a very high percentage of us have the desire and ability to be minimalists and make a difference in this world, but either don’t know how to just do it, or are afraid to approach it. Once on track, they’ll Inder stand and be hooked. Lovely composition…Thank You.
Lee says
Thank you for this article, and all you’ve taught us over the years.
I have always thought that money and other resources should be used to help others. My parents instilled that in me.
I have the means to help my best friend (I’ve helped raise his son for the past 15 yrs), and struggled with a situation that will mean considerable life changes for all involved. Thank you for helping me focus on the right thing to do.
James says
Let us remember to do the things best for us and our fellow man.
James says
On our climb to achievement, we must remember to reach out our hands, to others.
Mooniba Bhyat says
Joshua I so enjoy your article’s that are so insightful and meaningful.
Deb says
I love your readings, it inspires me to live on less , and when I live on less I have more peace,thank you
Jan Langdon says
Thank you for this thoughtful writing—I so agree. And as I continue to minimize my possessions, I notice my finances seem to expand so I can support the causes I want to help support. I love the belief that every little thing we do contributes so much.
Kacey says
Want too unsubscribe my email is getting cluttered with yrs an trying to do course THANKYOU for yr kick start in being a minimalist hve enough info now so no more emails please remove me Bless
Barbara says
So true. Buying less helps save the planet’s resources and also enables me to support causes that work to save nature.
Susan Drawbaugh says
Beautifully said. Your articles are always so meaningful.
JEAN says
Very well articulated! I so enjoy these writings. As I continue to pursue “less is more” living, the words truly resonate. Yes, it is all about choices. Needs versus wants. Freeing up physical, mental, emotional space to allow opportunity to flow into our days and create more meaningful living. Keep the thoughts flowing. Very much appreciated!
Mary says
I appreciate your insights and thoughts on this.