Minimalism has been a useful tool in my own journey to living my version of a simpler life. It’s become something of a gateway to living with more intention.
That said, I would never describe myself as a minimalist. I struggle with labels and this one is no different.
I love minimalist design, sparse writing forms (such as haiku) and the idea of chipping away at the unessential in life, so we can make space for the essential.
I also mostly write under the broad umbrella of simplicity because I believe in its power.
Simplicity, 80/20 and minimalist concepts have had a profound impact on me. They have helped shape my overall outlook to life in the last decade. I believe others can benefit from a similar exploration and experimentation with these concepts, looking for ways to simplify down to a point they are happy with. A point that improves the quality of their own lives.
But, to be clear, I do not live a monastic life. Far from it. My life is rich with experiences and full with things I do care about.
I travel a lot compared to most. I still have a wardrobe full with clothes, a few guitars, a few too many books and CDs (yes, I still have CDs). I wear more than just blacks and greys. Some of my clothes are branded (shock horror!). I can still be found sampling coffee wherever I find myself. I’m okay with all of that because my simplicity journey is very much mine (to own).
We get to choose, or we should do at least, what our lives look like.
Minimalism is a part of my life but it doesn’t define my life. It’s a gateway tool to a better life. A life with less friction and more living. Streamlined but still ample room for the occasional indulgence.
Leverage the power of minimalism but stop short of letting it define you. You get to do that yourself.