Making the Most of Minimalism
Okay, I'll say it again. In spite of what some may think when they hear or see the word, minimalism does not necessarily mean that
- you are able to store everything you own in a backpack;
- you live in a white cubicle with one chair, one lamp, and a mattress on the floor;
- you cultivate a loner existence with no family, no friends, and no commitments.
So what do I mean when I say I'm a minimalist?
As a minimalist, I try to determine what I need in my life so that I can discover and fulfill my calling, while removing the things that distract or prevent me from doing that.
For example:
- I want a beautiful, comfortable, tidy home, but I don't want to spend all my time cleaning or caring for things. I don't want clutter to put up obstacles that keep me from dressing, cooking, or relaxing when I'm at home. I don't want a crammed-full environment that distracts me from my family or my work.
- I want to own some nice things, but I don't want to squander my resources on stuff I don't need, that I bought on a whim, or that will be of no use because it is poorly made. I don't want to be in debt for things that add no value to my life or because I'm trying to keep up with some consumer ideal.
- I want to be busy and fulfilled, but not so crazy that I'm constantly stressed or wishing I could bow out of something in order to have time to pursue something I really love. I want to leave room in my schedule to observe, think, read, write, give thanks, and treat people with kindness.
Just like anyone else, I want a lot from life.
But I've realized that the pursuit of more and more possessions might keep me from achieving what I most desire. I want a sense of satisfaction with what I already have, not a feeling of discontent that constantly drives me to acquire more. I want to realize how blessed I am, and how much more I have going for me than what I own.
By removing what I don't need, and refraining from adding more and more, I maintain space for what I actually value and enjoy. I maintain energy to do something more important than service my house or car or possessions, and I maintain financial resources for the experiences and people I care about. By limiting my commitments, I maintain time for the relationships and tasks that are my passion.
These choices bring me a great deal of happiness and contentment. They fill my life with a sense of purpose and peace.
Minimalism isn't simply about owning or doing less. In fact, it's not as much about what you remove as it is about what you keep.
A minimalist removes things that don't matter in order to maximize what he or she deems important.
You might choose to own less because you want to maximize:
- time and attention for your family and friends
- time and funds for travel and experiences
- time and funds to make a positive difference in the world
- time and energy for a passion project
- meaning, significance, and joy
When you choose minimalism, and pare away the things and activities you don't need or want, you're left with a clear view of what you really care about. And then you can cultivate that.
Want more? 5 Reasons to Simplify Your Life
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