Looking back, I can now begin to see some of the reasons why becoming a minimalist was an easy decision for me:
- I don’t make a ton of money. We have enough, but not too much. Financial circumstances have always played a role in my decision making.
- I’m a bit naturally frugal. Minimalism is not the same as frugality, but there is plenty of overlap.
- I enjoy minimalist design in all things, from clothes & watches to art & interior design.
- We are done having children. Although my kids are young, we have no need to “hang on to something just in case.” When they outgrow something, we can give it away. That doesn’t mean future parents can’t become minimalist, it just means, for me, the process was a bit easier.
- I don’t fear change. Becoming minimalist is definitely a life-changing decision. I’m not afraid of it, I look forward to it.
- There are things I value more than possessions. God, family, relationships, character. When our pursuits are for greater things that material possessions, minimalism is an easy change to see the benefit of.
- I enjoy clean, tidy, uncluttered rooms. I like clean spaces, but don’t like to clean. Go figure! Minimalism scratches that itch.
- We entertain often. Minimalism helps us keep the house in a perpetual state of order for when company arrives.
- I kinda like the attention that comes from being minimalist. I’m not afraid to live a countercultural life. In fact, I love to tell others about you. Mostly because people love the idea when they hear about it.
How about you? What factors/experiences in your life, have made you a good candidate for minimalism?
K says
Life at 17:
Two pairs of pants, 3 t shirts, 2 shirts, 1 khaki uniform.
My life was filled with family, friends, peace, adventure, love.
Life at 27:
80 pairs of shoes, overflowing closet, too many things i will never use in a lifetime.
My life is now filled with, overwhelming debt, too little money, no love, no adventure, no family. Simply paying off debt and misery.
My 17 yr old self was a lot wiser.