What is minimalism…
At first, the term sounds scary – like depriving yourself from joy. However, this lifestyle can help you to focus on the essential by getting rid of unnecessary burdens. For me, it is about gaining conscience of the value of my belongings.
A fundamental aspect is reduced consumption behavior; treating yourself with things that are maybe a little bit more expensive and that you have been wanting for a long time; instead of spending money for cheap clutter that needs replacement after one year. As a student living on a low-budget, I know what I am talking about!
….and what can it do for me?
Especially for creative people, minimalism can be a true blessing. A clean, organized environment eases my mind and helps with structuring all my creative outbursts. I feel more free now because I am only surrounded by things that I need or that mean something to me.
However, the prejudice of a white and sterile household does not apply to my apartment at all. Quite the contrary: I love decorating my rooms with pictures, paintings, and plants because it adds a personal value to my home. A burden for me would be a massive wardrobe or a juicer stealing work space in my kitchen.
As you can see, there is no manual how to be a minimalist -and it’s not a competition either about who owns less! You have to decide for yourself what is important to you and should be kept.
Getting started – 7 easy tips
1) Declutter step-by-step!
It’s not the best idea to just start emptying your whole home during one day – especially if it’s stuff that has been piling up for many years. Not only will it cause you frustration but it also will be ineffective because you might throw stuff away that you actually need. My advice: Start with one area once a week. You could start with the winter wardrobe this Saturday, and continue with beauty products you don’t use anymore the next.
2) Make it an event!
Instead of viewing it as a painful procedure, boil yourself a tea, put on relaxing music (or not so relaxing music in my case :D) and enjoy sorting out all that junk. Take your time and think about if you really need single items.. and pad yourself on the back for actually putting goals into action.
3) Make a statement against fast fashion
Even though it can be unavoidable to actually throw stuff away, many things are still usable. Thrift stores and other non-profit shops will be really thankful for your donations. Taking your time and selling items on a flea market can even reward you with a little cash. With apps like shpock or vinted finding a new owner for your pieces has become a no-brainer.
4) Ask the right questions…
Photo by Jonathan Simcoe
..when decluttering! “If I would move abroad and can just take one suitcase with me, would I pack this item?” If you’re not sure, stuff it in a bag and store it somewhere hidden. Then, if you don’t touch if for a year, you definitely don’t need it! ..when shopping! Classic question: “Do I really need this?” But instead of letting it ruin your shopping adventure, invest in high-quality items that have been on your wish list since forever.
“Collect moments, not things.”
5) This is a personal choice, but a vacation with someone I love makes me happier than a new car or good headphones (although the latter is pretty damn taunting!). And during your trip take photos to remember it, instead of buying souvenirs no one needs.
6) But what about presents?
Photo by Annie Spratt
I really understand this issue. You don’t want to throw a gift from your mom away or ask her if she can exchange it. It’s probably best if you make up your own mind about this topic. But here’s how I deal with it: My relatives or friends give me presents because
a) they want to make me happy or b) they have to. The first one turned out easier than I expected. My mom was super chill when I once admitted I wouldn’t listen to a CD she gave to me. She wasn’t hurt at all. Now she always asks me more explicitly about my wishes. Maybe you can just be brave and try it! Loved ones are usually more tolerant and are actually glad when you tell them what you really want. For option b): I try to make clear in advance that I don’t want any presents. Sure, some people will still do it because they feel impolite otherwise. In this case, I ask for goods that can be used up. Examples would be my favorite foods, small bottles of body lotion or a voucher for cooking together.
7) Last but not least – Get inspired! Minimalism can be a fun lifestyle. Here are some of my favorite profiles that show how vibrant a simpler life can be.
Jenny Mustard – The Berlin-based Swedish takes care of a refreshingly simple Instagram account. She also creates content for her youtube channel where she presents her wardrobe, gives room tours and offers helpful advice how to implement minimalism in your daily life.
dariadaria.com – One of my favorite blogs!! This Austrian young lady blogs about traveling, minimalism, and zerowaste. I repeatedly make use of her list of fair fashion labels and also love her sensitive interviews with different people. Go check it out!
What are your tips or lifehacks for starting a more minimal life?
