4 Years of Minimalism & The Top 5 Lessons I've Learned

1. Start With Your Physical Space

Here's the thing I've come to realize – and I know this isn't true for everyone – but for me, my physical space is a direct reflection of how I feel inside.

Looking back at my twenties, seeing all that clutter, my closet literally bursting at the seams, I remember feeling restless and anxious all the time. I didn't even know where those feelings were coming from!

But I kept shopping, never realizing that my overflowing closet was the root cause. That's why I think examining your physical space is such a powerful place to start. It can really shift your mindset and empower you to take control of other areas of your life too.

Don't overthink it. Just take a weekend, go through your space, and take action on that clutter – all those things that have been sitting there for years, unused and unloved.

Once you've done that, take a moment and really notice how you feel. I think you'll naturally start to think about the other areas of your life that feel chaotic and cluttered too.

2. What Does a Simple Life Look Like For You?

For the longest time, I kept saying to myself that I just wanted a simple life, but I don't think I really knew what that meant. What is my version of a "simple life" anyway?

Now, when I say that, I know I mean a life I can manage and truly enjoy. I want to be able to use my resources on the things that truly matter to me in life.

I think it's crucial to have a bigger vision, a roadmap of where we are now and where we want to be. This vision helps us take those steps to close the gap between where we are and where we want to be.

Your version of a simplified life might require drastic measures, like finally ditching the city life and moving to a smaller town. Or maybe you just want a single day of peace and quiet to yourself every weekend.

Think about the small changes you can make right now to get one step closer to that vision. And also consider what you might have to give up to make that happen. Is the trade-off really worth it?

3. How Will You Make Use of the Resources Towards What You Want?

Often, when people think of minimalism, they picture a super empty home, maybe with just a couch and a few things scattered around.  Honestly, that image never really resonated with me.

Minimalism, for me, has always been about living life to the fullest. Simplifying my life was a way to get there.

I wanted to do cool things, creative things, meet amazing people, travel, and experience all the beautiful moments life has to offer.

In return, I was totally willing to give up a lot of things – material wealth, status, climbing the corporate ladder, even a sense of security and luxury. It's definitely a trade-off. 

So, ask yourself this: what do you really want to do with that extra space, time, and freedom?

Remember, these are just tools to help you build the life you desire. But figuring out what that life looks like for you is the real challenge.

4. What are the Habits and Mindset That Can Sustain This Lifestyle?

I used to overcomplicate things by constantly worrying about the unknown. But I'm learning to trust that I'll figure things out when the time comes, because, well, I always have. 

There's no point in getting worked up about something that hasn't even happened yet, right? This little mindset shift has simplified my life so much and brought me so much inner peace.

Like I said in the beginning, minimalism does start with stuff, but it becomes this filter through which you see the world. 

I find myself constantly asking questions: is this bringing me value or joy? Do I really need this right now? Have I outgrown this? What's holding me back at this point? It's become second nature to me now, and it does a great job of maintaining this simple and intentional life.

5. What Can You Control vs. What Can You Let Go?

I think of a minimalist life as an intentional life, not just drifting through life and reacting to everything. It's about being deliberate and mindful, taking control of the direction of your life. 

But if I've learned anything in the last four years, it's that we don't control everything. We can't control other people, situations, or curate life to our exact liking. There comes a time when you have to let go of that control and let life do its thing.

When I had a falling out with a friend a few years ago, it was obviously devastating. But looking back, I know I had to go through that to learn about boundaries, self-love, and who my true friends are. 

I feel like that's how it always goes when life takes over. There's a bigger lesson waiting for us at those times, even if we can't see it when we're decluttering.

Just remember, it's not just about the physical things. We're essentially freeing ourselves from past regrets, relationships that drain us, and situations beyond our control.

I truly believe it's symbolic – we make space for life to happen, to truly live in the moment. So, let things be, let people be, and maybe things will end up way better than you ever could have imagined.

Your Minimalist Journey

I'm so grateful for all of you. I'm constantly inspired by your stories and comments, and I'm so happy we're on this journey together. 

Maybe you could leave a tip in the comments for someone who's just starting out on their minimalist journey?