Minimalism Simplified.

"Wealth consists not in having great

possessions, but in having few wants"

-Epictetus

Minimalism isn't a new concept. It can be found in various ancient philosophical streams, notably stoicism.

I was first introduced to minimal- ism through Matt d'Avella's youtube channel. After watching it I was certain this is how I want to lead my life and explored further. I watched Netflix's documentary on minimal- ism, read several articles and books on it as well. Unsurprisingly, I adop- ted minimalism and it transformed me,

Let's begin by defining minimalism.

Joshua Becker of Becoming Minim- alist offers this definition: "Minimal- ism is the intentional promotion of the things that bring you joy and the
removal of those that do not."

For me minimalism is freedom. Freedom from consumerism, free- dom from duplicity, freedom from distractions. It allows me to focus on my values and be mindful.
Why should you adopt minimalism?

Nobody wants a life filled with clutter and material things they won't care about in a few years. We all wish for a life filled with experi- ences but never do anything about it and succumb to the consumerist culture promoted by corporations.
Minimalism lets you slow down and

embrace life.

Minimalism allows you to focus on the essential parts of life, on your relationships and experiences and removes the frivolous. It is a life of intentionality and clarity.

Another reason you should adopt minimalism is to help save our planet. Fast fashion and the con- stant desire for more is coming at the cost of our environment. We still have time to save ourselves and adopting this lifestyle is the best way forward.

How to begin?

I believe in taking small steps when starting anything transformative. Here are a few small steps you can take to adopt this lifestyle without going through much trouble.

1. Think twice before you buy
anything

We often buy things impulsively and regret later.

This simple rule helps you prevent buying things which you shall most likely not use or even regret buying in the first place. It helps you to be intentional while buying anything new.

2. Dispose unnecessary things

We all own things we have not used in a long long time, yet we keep holding on to them with the hope they will come to use in the future. Spoiler: they probably won't be of use.

Go through your things and dispose of just one item every day for a month, you will witness a notice- able difference. Your desk will look cleaner and your wardrobe will be
better organised.

3. Practice the one-in, one-out rule

For every new item you buy, com-

mit to getting rid of an item you no

longer need or want.

You could also look at it as buying something as a betterment or replacement of something you already own.

Remember, minimalism is not about getting rid of everything you own. It's about intentionally choos- ing to keep and use what brings value to your life, and letting go of the rest.

Do checkout Joshua Becker's blog here and book here.