Minimalism is defined as “a style or technique that is characterized by extreme spareness and simplicity”.

Now you may have heard of the minimalism movement spreading all over the Internet, possibly via theminimalists.com,  or it may be a completely new concept to you. Regardless, I’m sure we all have a lot to learn on the subject.

As I’m personally going through drastic yet exciting life changes, minimalism has become an important part of my journey. Simply put, I’m slowly realizing how less really is more. I can indeed live with fewer material things and be ecstatically happy, experience breathtaking moments, and live a simpler life. All the while feeling richer than ever before.

Cut the fat. We all carry around excess luggage in our lives, whether in reality or metaphorically. Cutting it out leads to more fulfilling lives.

As I embark on this minimalist journey and start decluttering certain parts of my life, I wanted to share with you a few tips on how you may incorporate the art of minimalism as well, starting with your very own home:

1. Look around your house and get rid of anything you inhenrently don’t need. I know, it sounds easy, but it’s not. Some things we’re attached to for sentimental reasons, others we’ve just hoarded through the years and their mere presence makes us feel more comfortable for absolutely no real reason. However, the less stuff you have around your house, the less clutter you’ll see, hence the tidier your home will be. And that’ll make your mind less cluttered in the process. Start off with just one room, and see how you feel. I’m personally doing it by sections in my home. First because I’m lazy as my mom always calls me, and second, the initial psychological impact of detaching myself from so many things feels less severe. Sure, there are moments where I hesitate to get rid of something, but deep down I know it’s useless to hold on to it, so I just close my eyes and place it either into my “donate” or “trash” bag.
2. Go through your closet, and anything that you haven’t worn in the past year, get rid of. Many people need clothes and would be overjoyed to receive them. Or you may have worn something only once but it’ll suit your best friend better instead. Meanwhile they’re just hanging in your closet collecting dust. It’s amazing how we actually need so few clothes to survive and still look stylish. I believe in owning just a few good quality pieces and making them versatile. There’s no sense in buying for the sake of buying and filling your closet with outfits you’ll only wear once. I’ve already started the exercise and gave away a good number of shirts, dresses, and accessories. It felt amazing, especially to see everyone’s happy faces. Of course, it helps that I tend to only purchase beautiful pieces. (humility is overrated)
3. Only hold on to things that add joy or purpose to your life. Ask yourself that question before donating or getting rid of anything. “Does this item make me happy? Do I use it frequently?” If the answer is no, then remove it from your home and your life. Yes, there’s a slightly stinging feeling the moment you part ways. But quickly the feeling fades away and you forget even owning it in the first place.

“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.” – Leonardo da Vinci