When people hear the word minimalist, many people imagine someone who lives in an almost empty space, no color, no personality, just "less of everything." I used to think that way too. But my understanding of minimalism changed the moment I realized it wasn't about removing joy from my life, but about removing noise.
A minimalist is someone who intentionally chooses, over having excess. It's a person who keeps what adds value, whether that's possessions, relationships, routines, or thoughts, and gently lets go of what no longer serves them. Minimalism is not deprivation; it's “clarity.”
For me, minimalism came at a season in my life when I was feeling utterly overwhelmed. To the world, I was accomplishing much, school responsibilities, writing, leading, serving in church, but inside, I was scattered. I filled my days up with stuff yet was always exhausted. Somewhere along the line, I realized I was carrying too many things that demanded my attention but gave me nothing in return.
Minimalism impacted my life in that I learned how to pause.
I started to simplify my life in small ways. I cut back on distractions in regards to my phone. I was more mindful with how I spent my time. I stopped committing to too much and learned to recognize that “no” was not a symptom of laziness or pride, but rather an expression of self-respect. As I eliminated these things, I was surprised to find that I was able to be present in those things I was passionate about.
But the most fundamental change occurred within myself. My mind became quieter. Now I made decisions based on purpose rather than pressure. Now I didn’t feel guilty about resting or gauging my worth in comparison to my activities.
A simplified lifestyle led me back to a place of peace, and that peace led me to growth.
If I had any nuggets of wisdom for someone who is just setting out on a minimalist path in life, it would be: start where you are, and start gently.
You don’t have to start over completely or change your whole life at once. Start with a drawer, a habit, a boundary. Ask yourself tough questions like: Does it have value in my life? Is it where I am going? If it is not, it is time for it to go away.
In addition, always remember this fact, your minimalist lifestyle does not have to resemble anyone else's. This is a fact that proves that minimalism is a personal lifestyle choice.
“Minimalism didn’t give me less life; it gave me space to live better. And that, to me, is the true beauty of choosing less over excess.”
This image belongs to millycf1976 and was manipulated using Canva.
Always a pleasure
Yes, I love the nugget. Minimalism isn't an overnight change; it starts with intentionality and gradually, showing up daily, it becomes something you will come to love and enjoy. It's a gradual process.
Yeah... I'm glad you read through and was able to get the point.
Minimalism is also about knowing what matters to you, choosing clarity and peace of mind over what does not matter at all.
It's a steady and gradual process indeed.
Thank you for stopping by ❤️
I love that last sentence. From an outsider’s point of view, a life without extremities isn’t really living, whereas those that know, know how much they value living that way. I like your take on this. I’m glad I got to read it.