How living with less can lead you to more

In a world of abundance, minimalism has found its way into the mainstream. Contrary to the popular notion that comforts and affluence help create a quality of life that leads to happiness, wellness experts profess the less material you cling to, the more peaceful and happier you get.

So, how do we define minimalist living?

Someone living a minimalist lifestyle is likely to have fewer clothes in the closet, less furniture and furnishings, sparse decoration, and a handful of essentials. The minimalist movement is not about affordability, but about downsizing possessions to focus on things that matter. By doing so, we discover happiness beyond the materialistic world.

If you think minimalism sounds like living a far-fetched life away from the city like a hermit, you are not alone. But that’s not what minimalism is about. Being a minimalist is to value the finer experiences of life over materialistic belongings. Hence, the idea is to keep what you need and get rid of things you don’t. Clarity, purpose, and simplicity underline the value system that is minimalism. No wonder, wellbeing today, is synonymous with minimalism. Corporate leaders, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and people from different walks of life pursue a spartan lifestyle to remove distractions and focus on important things.

An increasingly popular concept in this age, minimalism promises numerous long-term benefits—it changes your perspective towards life; it helps declutter the mind; it encourages you to live a life based on experiences rather than worldly possessions. A study conducted at the University of California, Money for Happiness: The Hedonic Benefits of Thrift concludes: “Thrift, a lifestyle of strategic under-consumption, offers a compelling alternative to consumerism, materialism, and overconsumption.” In this feature, Soulveda explores why minimalism is gaining popularity and the benefits associated with this eccentric yet wholesome concept.

Peace of mind and clarity

When you declutter your house, you do the same for your mind. Living with fewer belongings means fewer distractions and stimulations around you, which helps your mind stay calm and focused. You get clarity on what is important and what is not, as you start observing the finer experiences life has to offer. Your happiness no longer relies on your possessions.

Rediscover yourself

When you live a minimalist lifestyle, you rediscover yourself. Not spending too much time on gadgets can open new and unforeseen doors for you. The extra time on hand can be invested in cultivating creative habits and participating in motivating activities. There is a renewed opportunity to learn new things about yourself.

More space for creativity

In her article on Psychology Today, author and psychologist Sherrie Bourg Carter writes, “Clutter inhibits creativity and productivity by invading the open spaces that allow most people to think, brainstorm, and problem solve.” With a minimalist lifestyle, your creative side and cognitive abilities begin to unravel as your mind has fewer distractions and stimuli to respond to.

The road to true freedom

The New York Times bestselling author Dave Ramsey says, “We buy things we don’t need with money we don’t have to impress people we don’t like.” Countless people are guilty of chasing a materialistic lifestyle. It’s easy to allow greed or envy to drive our actions. Pursuing the path of minimalism helps to break free from the vicious cycle of obsession. It’s time to focus on self. What more, it translates into more money in the bank and less stress on the mind.

A life of purpose and passion

Choosing a life of minimalism is like having an empty canvas to paint the picture of your life’s dream. As your mind focuses on new things and observes the world like never before, you start doing things you like. You cultivate new habits and find ways to be more productive. A stress-free mind has greater motivation to set new goals and find your true calling.

Happier, stronger relationships

A minimalist approach can certainly make the grass seem greener on your own side. You don’t feel the compulsion to compare your life with that of others for yours is happy enough. The size of your car or your house becomes irrelevant. Instead of investing in luxuries, you invest in building human connections and creating lasting memories. Minimalism provides a fresh perspective on life that helps you redefine your relationships with your loved ones.

Enhanced confidence and self-esteem

Not everyone can break the spell of the material world. But if you are persistent in seeking true joy and inner peace, minimalism is the way to go. When you cut down your possessions, you can rely more on your innate abilities and find solace in your own company.

Travel far and wide

A moderate, minimal lifestyle enables you to travel more. The less you spend on things, the more you can spend to stay on the road. Above everything else, travelling takes you a step closer to discovering your true self. As Ibn Battuta, a scholar and explorer, once said, “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”