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We live in a world of excess. We are constantly bombarded with advertisements and messages telling us that we need to buy more, do more, and go further than what is necessary for our survival. The problem is that the pursuit of excess has left many people feeling empty inside. They have so much stuff they can't even remember what it all is or when they acquired it - but they know one thing: It doesn't make them happy. In this article, we take a look at the benefits of a minimalist lifestyle.There is no official definition for what "minimalist" means; it's up to you to define it for yourself. However, common themes run through all minimalist programs: The focus is on owning less and enjoying life more. The program also emphasizes taking time to find out what is truly important in your life. There is no timetable for achieving " minimalism" in your life; it's a personal journey that can take years. The following are examples of why less is more and what are the advantages of a minimalist lifestyle:
1) Creates room for what's important
When you minimize your life, there is more focus on the things that truly matter. You spend less time worrying about what to wear and more time thinking about who and where you want to be and what you want to accomplish. Your relationships with friends and family become stronger because you no longer feel pressured to live up to unrealistic expectations of yourself or others.
2) More freedom and flexibility
When your life is simplified, you have more freedom to do what you want when you want. You're not tied down by possessions or obligations that don't bring you happiness. You can go on spontaneous trips without worrying about how you will fit everything in your suitcase. You can also change your mind about things more quickly because there is less chance of regret if you do.
3) Focus on health and hobbies
A minimalist lifestyle can also be healthy for both your body and mind. When you don't have as much stuff to take care of, you have more time to focus on taking care of yourself. You can go for walks or runs in the park, take up a new hobby, or eat healthier foods. All of these things can improve your physical and mental health.
4) Reduces carbon footprint
In addition to reducing the impact on your own life, a minimalist lifestyle can also positively affect the environment. The less stuff you have, the fewer resources it takes to produce and maintain those items. This can be beneficial for people concerned about climate change and global warming because it helps reduce the amount of CO2 emissions released into the atmosphere.
5) Less focus on material possessions
One of the main goals of a minimalist lifestyle is to reduce your focus on material possessions. When you have less stuff, you don't need as much money to maintain it. This can be helpful for people who are struggling financially or who are in debt. It can also help you live more simply and focus on the essential things in your life.
6) More peace of mind
When your life is simplified, you have less to worry about. You don't have to waste time cleaning or organizing your possessions because there are fewer of them. When you declutter, the room around you will feel airier and much more orderly. (Some say, that after a major decluttering they can breathe better). You also don't have to worry about losing or breaking your stuff because you won't have as much of it. This can lead to a more peaceful and relaxed state of mind.
7) More happiness
One of the main goals of a minimalist lifestyle is to be happier. When you focus on fewer possessions and obligations, you have more time for the things that make you happy. You can spend weekends relaxing at home instead of running errands. You can also travel more and explore new places without feeling guilty about leaving your stuff behind.
8) Less fear of failure
When your life is simplified, you have less to lose. This can be empowering because it reduces the fear of failure and makes you more willing to take chances. You may also find it easier to start new projects or goals if they are not connected to your existing schedule or lifestyle.
9) More confidence
Those who adopt a minimalist lifestyle often find that they have more confidence in themselves. This is because you are freed to focus on the things that make you great instead of worrying about what other people think of your possessions or lifestyle choices. You will be better able to pursue your passions and goals without feeling insecure or ashamed because you don't have as much to lose.
10) Fewer decisions
Owing fewer things will reduce the number of decisions you'll need to make. For example, the question of what to wear will automatically answer itself when you have only one winter coat (instead of 4 or more). By shopping less you won't need to decide between things and you won't need to constantly make new room for your new possessions. You won't spend hours searching through the department store or amazon to buy something new at the expense of doing something else that was more meaningful. The guilty feeling after shopping - because the new item was too pricy after all or does not fit a 100% - will be gone.
In Conclusion
Minimalism is not for everyone, but it can be a gratifying way to live your life. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the amount of stuff you have, or if you're not sure what is important to you, consider trying out a minimalist lifestyle. You may be surprised at how much better you feel when you focus on the things that matter.
Photo: © ikostudio / stock.adobe.com
Editor, 12/02/2021
