Minimalism is a lifestyle that emphasizes simplicity, focusing on what truly matters and eliminating excess. At its core, it encourages individuals to declutter not only their physical spaces but also their mental and emotional landscapes.
By reducing material possessions and distractions, minimalism fosters a sense of clarity, freedom, and intentionality. It challenges the societal norms of consumerism and encourages a deeper connection to experiences, relationships, and personal growth.
Whether applied to home decor, daily routines, or overall mindset, minimalism seeks to create a more meaningful, fulfilling life by prioritizing quality over quantity.
The origins of minimalism can be traced to several influences, both in art and philosophy, that emerged in the mid-20th century. In the visual arts, minimalism developed in the 1950s and 1960s as a reaction against the expressive and emotional styles of abstract expressionism. Artists like Donald Judd, Frank Stella, and Dan Flavin focused on simplicity, using geometric shapes, clean lines, and industrial materials to create works that were devoid of personal or emotional expression.
This emphasis on form, function, and the removal of unnecessary embellishments set the foundation for minimalist design.
Philosophically, minimalism draws from earlier traditions that prioritize simplicity, such as Zen Buddhism, which advocates for a life of mindfulness and minimal distraction. The Japanese aesthetic of “wabi-sabi,” which values the beauty of imperfection and simplicity, has also influenced minimalist ideals, especially in design and architecture.
In recent years, minimalism has expanded beyond art and design to become a lifestyle choice, particularly in response to the consumer-driven, materialistic culture of the modern world. Figures like Marie Kondo, with her “KonMari” method of decluttering, and writers like Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, who popularized the “Minimalists” movement, have helped bring minimalism into the mainstream as a way to focus on what truly adds value to life.
Minimalism shares some philosophical overlap with the ideals of the 1960s counterculture, which was heavily influenced by the hippie movement. During that time, there was a strong emphasis on rejecting materialism, embracing simplicity, and seeking more meaningful, authentic experiences.
The hippie era’s focus on communal living, environmentalism, and anti-consumerism resonates with the minimalist ethos of reducing possessions to focus on personal growth and well-being.
However, while minimalism in its modern sense has distinct roots in mid-20th century art and design, the broader values it promotes—such as living with intention and rejecting excess—are certainly reminiscent of the values championed by the hippie generation. That era laid the groundwork for many of the social and cultural shifts that would later influence minimalist living, including an increased awareness of the importance of inner peace, connection, and simplicity in one’s lifestyle.
Minimalists generally reject materialism, but not in the way some might expect. Minimalism is about being intentional with possessions and focusing on quality over quantity. While materialism often involves the pursuit of excessive material wealth and possessions as a source of happiness or fulfillment, minimalists aim to simplify their lives by letting go of unnecessary items and distractions.
They believe that true contentment comes from valuing experiences, relationships, and personal growth rather than accumulating things.
Minimalism encourages individuals to reflect on what is truly meaningful to them and eliminate the excess that can clutter both their physical space and mental well-being. By reducing material possessions, minimalists seek to create more room for what matters most, whether that’s time for family, creative pursuits, or personal development. In essence, minimalism isn’t about rejecting all material goods, but rather focusing on what adds real value to one’s life and letting go of the rest.
In some ways, minimalists can be seen as rebels or part of a counterculture, particularly in their rejection of consumerism and materialism, which dominate much of modern society. Minimalism challenges the conventional belief that acquiring more possessions, chasing wealth, and keeping up with trends leads to happiness or success.
This is similar to how the counterculture movements of the 1960s rejected mainstream values and sought alternative lifestyles that prioritized personal freedom, environmental awareness, and deeper meaning over societal norms.
Minimalists push back against the idea that success is measured by accumulation—whether of things, status, or wealth. Instead, they embrace simplicity and intentionality, which can be seen as a rebellion against the consumer-driven culture that encourages people to constantly acquire more, often at the expense of their well-being.
While minimalism shares some countercultural traits, it is more about finding individual fulfillment through simplicity than about challenging the establishment for the sake of rebellion. It’s a personal choice to live with less, often as a way to gain clarity and focus, rather than to protest society at large. That said, in a culture obsessed with consumption, the minimalist lifestyle can certainly feel like a form of quiet resistance or a statement against the overwhelming pressures to accumulate and consume.
Embracing minimalism can often lead to better financial well-being and reduced stress, largely because it encourages individuals to focus on what truly matters, rather than getting caught up in the cycle of consumerism, materialism, and societal expectations. By reducing unnecessary purchases and material possessions, minimalists typically save money and avoid the financial strain that comes with constantly upgrading or acquiring new things.
In terms of stress and anxiety, minimalism can also be beneficial. Letting go of the pressure to keep up with others in terms of possessions, appearances, or lifestyle choices can create a sense of freedom and peace.
When people stop tying their self-worth to external possessions or societal status, they often experience less anxiety and more clarity about their priorities. Minimalists tend to value experiences over things, which can lead to a more fulfilling life and greater emotional well-being.
By focusing on what brings true happiness—like meaningful relationships, personal growth, and simple pleasures—minimalism fosters a sense of contentment that doesn’t rely on material wealth. This shift can lead to greater mental peace and a more balanced, less stressful lifestyle. It’s about shifting away from the constant pursuit of more to appreciating what you already have and finding joy in simplicity.
Minimalists typically don’t see people who chase money, power, and material possessions as “dumb” or “a waste.” Rather, they may view this behavior as a misguided pursuit of happiness or fulfillment. For many minimalists, the belief is that these external goals—while not inherently wrong—often lead to dissatisfaction, stress, and a sense of emptiness.
They argue that chasing more money, power, and things can become a never-ending cycle that distracts from what truly matters, such as personal growth, meaningful relationships, and inner peace.
Minimalists often believe that the pursuit of material wealth or status can detract from one’s ability to focus on the things that genuinely bring happiness and contentment. They might view individuals caught in this cycle as being overly focused on external validation and material success, which they see as fleeting and unfulfilling in the long run.
However, minimalists usually don’t criticize or judge people who are striving for these things; instead, they tend to focus on the idea that there’s a more intentional way to live that might bring greater lasting happiness. Minimalism, in this sense, is seen as a more conscious approach to life—one where people prioritize what aligns with their values and passions over societal expectations. The minimalist perspective is less about condemning others and more about offering an alternative path to a more meaningful life.
People who pursue materialism, money, or power often end up feeling empty. While these things can provide temporary satisfaction or a sense of accomplishment, they don’t tend to offer lasting fulfillment or meaning.
The pursuit of material wealth or status often becomes a cycle, where the goalposts keep shifting—once a person acquires one thing, they may find themselves wanting something else, leading to a constant sense of desire or lack.
Minimalists believe that this pursuit often distracts people from what truly brings happiness, such as meaningful relationships, personal growth, or experiences that enrich their lives. When someone places too much value on external achievements or possessions, they may neglect the deeper, more intrinsic aspects of life, which can lead to feelings of emptiness, anxiety, or dissatisfaction.
Additionally, materialism and the pursuit of power can be tied to external validation, where self-worth is based on how others perceive one’s success. This can create a fragile sense of identity that is easily shaken when circumstances change. In contrast, minimalism encourages people to find their sense of fulfillment internally, through personal values, mindfulness, and cultivating genuine connections with others. This shift in focus—away from external markers of success to internal contentment—often leads to a deeper and more lasting sense of happiness and fulfillment.
Minimalists are often more likely to experience better mental and overall well-being. By intentionally simplifying their lives and reducing the clutter—both physical and mental—they can create a sense of clarity and peace. Here’s why:
Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Minimalists tend to focus on what truly matters to them, which helps them avoid the constant pressure to accumulate more possessions, achieve status, or meet external expectations. This can reduce the stress of trying to “keep up” with others and allow for a more relaxed, fulfilling lifestyle.
Improved Mental Clarity: When people have fewer material distractions and obligations, it’s easier to focus on what’s important. Minimalists often report feeling more present and aware in their daily lives, leading to increased mindfulness and mental clarity. This can help reduce feelings of overwhelm and create space for creativity, problem-solving, and reflection.
Better Relationships: By eliminating excess distractions, minimalists can invest more time and energy into building meaningful relationships. When possessions and external success are no longer the primary focus, there’s more room to nurture connections with others and focus on shared experiences that bring joy.
Increased Sense of Purpose: Minimalists often focus on personal values and experiences rather than material accumulation, which can lead to a stronger sense of purpose and fulfillment. This deeper connection to one’s values can lead to greater emotional well-being and resilience against external pressures.
Financial Health: Since minimalists are less likely to overspend on unnecessary things, they often have a healthier relationship with money. This can lead to less financial stress, more savings, and a greater ability to prioritize meaningful investments in life—whether that’s travel, health, or personal development.
Physical Health: Minimalism also tends to overlap with a focus on self-care, such as healthy eating, exercise, and maintaining a balanced lifestyle. Without the distractions of accumulating possessions or constantly chasing new goals, minimalists may find it easier to prioritize their physical health.
Overall, the minimalist approach to life—emphasizing simplicity, intentionality, and mindfulness—can contribute to a more balanced, centered, and healthy mental and physical state.
In many ways, minimalists can be seen as possessing true wealth, but it’s wealth of a different kind than what is typically measured in money, possessions, or status. For minimalists, true wealth comes from living a life aligned with their values, prioritizing what brings them fulfillment and happiness, rather than what society often equates with success.
Their “wealth” is more about:
Mental and Emotional Fulfillment: Instead of feeling trapped in a cycle of consumption or seeking external validation, minimalists often experience peace of mind, emotional clarity, and a deeper sense of purpose.
Time and Freedom: By minimizing distractions, unnecessary possessions, and material pursuits, minimalists often gain more time and mental space to do what truly matters to them—whether that’s spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing passions, or simply enjoying life without the constant pressure to acquire more.
Personal Growth and Health: Minimalists tend to invest in their physical and mental health, relationships, and personal development, which leads to a wealth of vitality, happiness, and well-being.
Experiences over Things: For minimalists, the richness of life comes from experiences—whether it’s traveling, learning, or building meaningful connections—not from the accumulation of material goods. These experiences often provide far greater, longer-lasting value than any possession could.
Freedom from Debt and Financial Stress: With fewer material obligations and a focus on what they truly need, minimalists often live within their means, avoiding debt and financial strain. This can create a sense of financial security and freedom.
In essence, while minimalists might not chase traditional forms of wealth, they often possess a form of wealth that brings deeper, more lasting satisfaction: the freedom to live intentionally and the ability to focus on what truly enriches their lives.
There are several present-day examples of minimalism, both in terms of lifestyle and individuals who embody minimalist principles. Here are a few notable examples:
The Minimalists (Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus)
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, known as “The Minimalists,” are two of the most prominent advocates of minimalism today. They have built a platform around the idea of living a simple, intentional life, free from the clutter of excess possessions and societal expectations. Their website, books (like Minimalism: Live a Meaningful Life), and Netflix documentary (Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things) have inspired many people to embrace minimalism as a way to achieve greater happiness, financial freedom, and mental clarity.
Marie Kondo
Marie Kondo, the author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, is a globally recognized figure who has popularized minimalism through her KonMari method. Her approach focuses on decluttering and organizing by keeping only the items that “spark joy.” Kondo has helped millions of people simplify their homes and lives, encouraging them to let go of possessions that no longer serve a meaningful purpose.
Dave Bruno
Dave Bruno is known for the “100 Thing Challenge,” where he made a commitment to reduce his possessions to just 100 items. His experiment and subsequent writings have inspired many to consider the impact of consumerism and rethink the value of their belongings. Bruno’s approach emphasizes the power of intentionality and living with less.
Colin Wright
Colin Wright is an author, blogger, and entrepreneur who embodies a minimalist lifestyle. He’s known for his book How to Travel the World on $50 a Day and for living a life that prioritizes experiences and freedom over material possessions. Wright also practices a location-independent lifestyle, choosing to live in different places around the world for a few months at a time, which aligns with minimalist values of reducing belongings and focusing on experiences rather than accumulation.
Bee Johnson
Bea Johnson is another key figure in the modern minimalist movement, but with a particular focus on sustainability. She is known for pioneering the “Zero Waste” movement, which encourages people to reduce waste in their lives and minimize their environmental impact. Through her book Zero Waste Home, Johnson shares her family’s journey toward reducing consumption, waste, and clutter, and promotes a minimalist lifestyle that aligns with eco-consciousness.
Tom and Lisa from “Minimalist On Purpose”
Tom and Lisa, creators of the “Minimalist On Purpose” blog and YouTube channel, share their experiences of transitioning to a minimalist lifestyle and how it has positively impacted their mental, emotional, and financial well-being. Their approach emphasizes living with intention and focusing on what truly matters in life, such as personal growth, relationships, and health.
Minimalist Architects and Designers
Architects and designers like Tadao Ando, John Pawson, and Marie-Claude Bérubé are also key figures in minimalism, particularly in the realm of architecture and interior design. They emphasize clean lines, open spaces, and functional design that eliminates unnecessary elements, creating environments that foster tranquility and clarity.
Digital Minimalists
In the digital age, Digital Minimalism is a growing trend where individuals intentionally limit their use of technology to avoid distractions and focus on more meaningful activities. People like Cal Newport, author of Digital Minimalism, encourage limiting time spent on social media and digital devices in favor of activities that foster real-world connections and personal growth. Many people now embrace practices like having a “phone-free” time or using technology only for specific, purposeful activities.
Tiny House Movement
The tiny house movement, though not limited to a single individual, embodies minimalist principles by encouraging people to downsize their living spaces to reduce material possessions and live more sustainably. This movement has inspired many people to build or purchase small homes that are efficient, functional, and minimal in design, freeing them from the financial burden of large, expensive homes.
These examples demonstrate that minimalism isn’t just about reducing material possessions—it’s also about prioritizing what truly brings meaning, peace, and happiness into one’s life, whether that’s through relationships, experiences, personal development, or sustainability.
There are several important aspects of minimalism that can deepen your understanding and appreciation of this lifestyle. Here are some key points to consider:
Minimalism is Personal and Customizable
Minimalism isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s a deeply personal lifestyle choice, and it can be adapted to suit your values and goals. Some people may focus on simplifying their physical possessions, while others may focus more on simplifying their schedules, relationships, or digital habits. The central idea is to prioritize what’s truly meaningful to you and eliminate distractions or excess that prevent you from living intentionally.
Minimalism Isn’t About Deprivation
Contrary to what some might think, minimalism isn’t about depriving yourself or living with as little as possible. It’s about consciously choosing what adds value to your life and letting go of things that don’t contribute to your well-being. Minimalists may still own things or have experiences, but those things are carefully selected and serve a purpose, rather than being accumulated out of habit or societal pressure.
Focus on Experiences Over Things
A core principle of minimalism is that experiences—whether they’re travel, spending time with loved ones, or pursuing hobbies—offer greater and longer-lasting fulfillment than material possessions. Minimalists often prioritize creating memories over buying things, which can lead to more meaningful, enriching lives.
Decluttering as a Mindset
While physical decluttering is often associated with minimalism, it’s also a mindset. Minimalists often practice mental decluttering—letting go of unnecessary worries, fears, or preconceived ideas—and emotional decluttering, where they release emotional baggage or toxic relationships. This approach can help reduce stress and make space for more positive, empowering thoughts and behaviors.
Financial Benefits
Living a minimalist lifestyle often leads to better financial health. With less emphasis on purchasing unnecessary items, minimalists tend to save more money and avoid the financial stress that comes from overspending or accumulating debt. This financial freedom can also reduce anxiety and allow for more flexibility in pursuing meaningful goals, whether that’s retiring early, traveling, or investing in personal growth.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Many minimalists also adopt sustainable practices as part of their lifestyle. By consuming less and being more mindful about the products they purchase, minimalists can reduce waste and their overall environmental footprint. This aligns with eco-consciousness and the growing desire to minimize consumption to help protect the planet.
The Power of Saying No
Minimalism often requires learning to say no—whether it’s to social commitments, unnecessary purchases, or activities that don’t align with your values. By setting boundaries and being intentional about where you invest your time and energy, you can create more space for things that matter.
Increased Focus on Personal Growth
Without the distractions of clutter and excess, minimalists tend to focus more on personal development and self-improvement. This might include things like developing new skills, reading, practicing mindfulness, or pursuing physical health goals. Minimalism creates the mental space to nurture one’s growth and development.
Freedom and Flexibility
With fewer possessions and fewer obligations, minimalists often experience a sense of freedom and flexibility. They may feel less tethered to a specific place or way of living, allowing them to move, travel, or adapt to new circumstances more easily. This freedom can foster a sense of adventure, creativity, and peace.
Minimalism and Creativity
Far from stifling creativity, minimalism can actually enhance it. With fewer distractions and excess, people often find that they have more mental energy and clarity to focus on creative pursuits. Whether it’s art, writing, or starting a new project, the simplicity of minimalism can create the right environment for creative ideas to flourish.
Long-Term Happiness
The focus of minimalism is often on long-term well-being rather than short-term gratification. By focusing on what truly contributes to a meaningful life, minimalists tend to find deeper happiness and fulfillment. This can be seen in the prioritization of relationships, health, and experiences over the temporary joy that material goods can provide.
It’s a Journey, Not a Destination
Minimalism isn’t something that you “achieve” and then are done with—it’s an ongoing journey. As life changes, your priorities and possessions may change too. Minimalism is about being adaptable and open to reevaluating what adds value to your life as circumstances shift.
Minimalism is About Intentional Living
The most important thing about minimalism is living with intention. It’s about making conscious choices about what you allow into your life and what you let go of. Whether it’s material items, habits, or even relationships, minimalism encourages you to be deliberate and thoughtful in everything you do.
By embracing these aspects of minimalism, people can create a more focused, intentional, and fulfilling life. Minimalism isn’t just about having fewer things—it’s about aligning your lifestyle with your true values and finding peace in simplicity.
Adopting a minimalist mindset can bring numerous benefits to many areas of life. By focusing on what truly matters and letting go of distractions, excess, and unnecessary stress, you and others can experience:
Mental Clarity and Peace
Minimalism encourages you to declutter not just your physical space but also your mind. With fewer distractions and obligations, you can experience a greater sense of peace, focus, and mental clarity, which can lead to better decision-making and overall well-being.
Increased Happiness
Shifting focus from accumulating things to pursuing meaningful experiences and connections can bring a deeper, more lasting happiness. Instead of temporary satisfaction from material items, minimalism emphasizes finding joy in simplicity, personal growth, and relationships.
Less Stress and Anxiety
A simpler life often leads to fewer worries. Without the weight of overconsumption, constant comparisons, or maintaining possessions that don’t serve you, you can reduce anxiety and stress, leading to a more relaxed, peaceful state of mind.
Improved Financial Health
By minimizing unnecessary purchases and focusing on what’s truly essential, you can save money, avoid debt, and achieve financial freedom. This can give you more flexibility to invest in things that enhance your life, whether that’s experiences, savings, or self-care.
More Time for What Matters
With fewer possessions and fewer commitments, you can free up time and energy for the things that truly matter—whether it’s family, hobbies, health, or personal development. Minimalism helps you prioritize your time based on what adds value to your life.
Environmental Impact
A minimalist mindset often leads to fewer purchases and a more sustainable lifestyle, which can help reduce waste and environmental impact. By choosing quality over quantity and being mindful of your consumption, you contribute to a healthier planet.
Personal Growth
When you let go of materialism and societal expectations, you can focus more on your personal growth and development. Whether it’s through learning, self-reflection, or trying new experiences, minimalism gives you the space to grow into the person you want to be.
Stronger Relationships
When you remove distractions like unnecessary possessions or time spent on things that don’t matter, you make more room for meaningful relationships. Minimalism can help you connect with others on a deeper level, focusing on quality time and shared experiences.
Freedom
Minimalism provides freedom from societal pressures and the constant pursuit of material gain. It allows you to live life on your terms, free from the constraints of consumerism, which can be incredibly empowering.
Adopting this mindset, even in small steps, can help shift your perspective and create a more fulfilling, intentional life. It’s about choosing what truly brings value and letting go of the rest, which can make a significant difference in overall happiness and well-being.
Starting with minimalism can be both exciting and transformative. The first steps are about creating a solid foundation to begin letting go of excess and making space for what truly matters. Here’s a guide to help you get started on your minimalistic lifestyle:
Clarify Your Values and Goals
Minimalism is deeply personal, and it’s important to understand what truly matters to you. Take some time to reflect on your values, goals, and what you want to prioritize in your life. This could include things like family, health, personal growth, financial freedom, or experiences over possessions. Clarifying what matters most will help guide your decisions as you simplify your life.
Start Decluttering
One of the most obvious and impactful steps is decluttering your physical space. Begin by focusing on one area at a time (e.g., a room, closet, or drawer). The goal is to let go of things that no longer serve you or align with your values. Ask yourself these questions:
Do I use this regularly?
Does this add value to my life?
Does this make me happy or serve a purpose?
Once you’ve made these decisions, donate, sell, or recycle the items you no longer need. Decluttering can create immediate mental and physical space, helping you feel lighter and more focused.
Evaluate Your Time and Commitments
Minimalism isn’t just about physical possessions; it’s also about simplifying your schedule and commitments. Look at how you spend your time and ask if each activity or obligation aligns with your goals or values. If you’re overbooked or constantly busy with things that drain you, it might be time to say “no” more often and focus on what really matters. This could mean:
Cutting back on social commitments that aren’t fulfilling.
Streamlining your work or personal life to avoid unnecessary stress.
Scheduling more downtime to recharge.
Mind Your Consumption Habits
Minimalism encourages mindful consumption. Pay attention to the things you buy and ask yourself if they’ll truly add value to your life. Before purchasing something, consider:
Do I need this?
Will it improve my quality of life or bring me lasting happiness?
Can I live without it or repurpose something I already have?
It’s about making intentional, conscious decisions rather than buying things out of habit or impulse.
Adopt a “One In, One Out” Rule
A helpful strategy to avoid accumulating more things is adopting a “one in, one out” rule. This means that whenever you buy something new, you get rid of something that’s no longer serving you. This keeps your space and life in check while preventing clutter from building up.
Simplify Your Digital Life
Many people don’t realize how overwhelming digital clutter can be. Unsubscribe from unnecessary emails, organize your files and photos, and reduce the number of apps or social media platforms you use. This not only declutters your digital space but can also help reduce distractions and improve focus.
Focus on Experiences Over Possessions
Minimalism emphasizes the value of experiences over material possessions. Instead of buying things for temporary satisfaction, focus on creating memories through travel, learning, relationships, or activities that nourish your soul. Investing in experiences often brings more lasting happiness than buying more “stuff.”
Create More Space for What Matters
Once you’ve cleared out unnecessary possessions and commitments, start filling that space with things that align with your values and passions. This could include:
Making time for hobbies or activities that bring you joy.
Strengthening relationships with family and friends.
Investing in personal growth, health, or mindfulness practices.
Minimalism is about quality over quantity, so ensure that what you keep or introduce into your life enriches it in a meaningful way.
Practice Gratitude
Minimalism often involves appreciating what you already have rather than seeking more. Practice gratitude for the things and people that truly bring value to your life. Focusing on gratitude helps you stay grounded and content with less, further reinforcing the minimalistic mindset.
Start Small and Be Patient
Minimalism is a journey, not an overnight transformation. Start small and take gradual steps toward simplifying different aspects of your life. Don’t feel pressured to get rid of everything at once or completely change your life overnight. With time, you’ll discover what works best for you.
By starting with these foundational steps, you can create a simpler, more intentional life. Minimalism is about reclaiming your time, space, and energy so you can focus on what truly brings you happiness, peace, and fulfillment.
To dive deeper into minimalism and learn more about the topics we’ve discussed, there are several great resources across books, blogs, documentaries, and podcasts that can provide you with more insights and inspiration. Here are some of the best places to explore:
Books
- “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” by Marie Kondo
Marie Kondo’s book focuses on decluttering and organizing your space using the “KonMari” method, helping you keep only those things that “spark joy.” - “Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things” by Joshua Fields Millburn & Ryan Nicodemus
This book by The Minimalists (Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus) explores the concept of minimalism and how it can lead to a more meaningful and intentional life. - “Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less” by Greg McKeown
A practical guide to focusing on what’s essential in both work and life, this book provides actionable steps for prioritizing your time and energy. - “Goodbye, Things: The New Japanese Minimalism” by Fumio Sasaki
This book explores Sasaki’s personal journey of decluttering and embracing minimalism in his life, offering a powerful reflection on the emotional and psychological benefits of living with less. - “The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own” by Joshua Becker
Joshua Becker’s book emphasizes the benefits of owning less and how simplifying your life can lead to more freedom and happiness.
Websites & Blogs
- The Minimalists (theminimalists.com)
Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus share their philosophy of minimalism, offering advice, articles, and resources on how to live a simple, intentional life. They also have a podcast and documentaries. - Becoming Minimalist (becomingminimalist.com)
Founded by Joshua Becker, this blog offers articles on minimalism, decluttering, and simplifying your life. It also features practical tips for anyone looking to live with less. - Minimalist Baker (minimalistbaker.com)
While not strictly about minimalism in the traditional sense, this blog focuses on simple, healthy recipes that align with the minimalist lifestyle of simplicity and efficiency in the kitchen. - No Sidebar (nosidebar.com)
A website dedicated to the philosophy of minimalism, offering tips and articles on how to simplify life, including topics on home, work, relationships, and personal growth. - Zen Habits (zenhabits.net)
This blog by Leo Babauta explores topics such as simplicity, mindfulness, and productivity. It offers practical advice for embracing minimalism and living a more focused, peaceful life.
Documentaries & Films
- “Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things” (2016)
Available on Netflix, this documentary follows Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus as they explore the lives of minimalists and how adopting a minimalist lifestyle can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment. - “The Minimalists: Less Is Now” (2021)
Another documentary from The Minimalists, it delves into how the minimalist philosophy has transformed their lives and shares stories of others who’ve embraced living with less. - “Tidy Up with Marie Kondo” (Netflix)
Marie Kondo’s Netflix series takes viewers into people’s homes as she helps them declutter and find joy in keeping only what truly matters.
Podcasts
- The Minimalists Podcast
Hosted by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus, this podcast dives deep into minimalism, offering personal stories, interviews, and advice on how to live a simpler, more meaningful life. - The Slow Home Podcast
Hosted by Brooke and Ben McAlary, this podcast focuses on living intentionally, with episodes on minimalism, sustainable living, and simplifying your life. - Essentialism Podcast
Greg McKeown, author of Essentialism, discusses how to focus on what really matters by eliminating distractions and committing to the essential. - Optimal Living Daily
This podcast curates the best content on minimalism, personal development, and lifestyle design, making it easier to learn from the best writers on the subject.
Social Media & Online Communities
- Instagram Accounts
- @theminimalists – Joshua and Ryan share content about minimalism, both inspiring and practical.
- @minimalism – A community-focused account offering tips and quotes on living with less.
- Reddit
- r/minimalism – A vibrant community discussing all aspects of minimalism, from lifestyle tips to inspiration and success stories.
- r/declutter – A helpful subreddit for those looking to declutter their homes and lives.
- YouTube Channels
- The Minimalists – A YouTube channel by Joshua and Ryan, featuring videos that delve into minimalism and simplifying life.
- Matt D’Avella – A filmmaker and minimalist who creates content about minimalism, intentional living, and personal development.
Online Courses
- The Minimalists’ “Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things” Online Course
If you want a more structured learning approach, The Minimalists also offer online courses that dive deeper into how to live a minimalist life. - “Essentialism” by Greg McKeown (Udemy, LinkedIn Learning)
If you’re interested in a structured, professional approach to minimalism, these courses offer guidance in applying minimalism to your work and personal life.
Supportive Communities
Joining online groups, attending workshops, or even finding a local group focused on minimalism can provide encouragement, advice, and community support as you begin your journey.
By exploring these resources, you’ll find practical tools, inspiration, and deeper insights into minimalism, and you’ll be able to implement it in a way that fits your personal goals and values.
If you liked this Share It!
Unleash your BOHOtude – visit BOHOtude Apparel for a selection of free-spirited apparel.