I agree that "minimalism is a tool, not a personality trait", and that a clean interior of white walls does not make a minimalist. However, like you, I have found peace in having less stuff to deal with. Fewer belongings to manage means you have less waste. You don't buy things you don't need or waste time looking for things you think you have - and it reduces your cleaning time!
My new mantra is that everything must have a home. If I buy more clothes than fit in my wardrobe, then I need to get rid of some. If I have so much in my bathroom cabinets that it is hard to find anything, then I need a clear out. I also find having a 'not sure if I need this' box is a great half-way stage before taking it to the charity shop.
I think the most important thing is to be constantly reflective. I am in my sixties and have embraced living a simpler life after a leaving a very stressful career. This means I have hugely decluttered but still have a full house, but the things I have are either beautiful or useful. I admire the way you plan and even plan your reading, I smile when I see the tabs in your books, and that is just who you are. I’ve learned to really ease up and in the words of the famous poet, I now have the time to sit and stare, and I love it. Take care x
It's so easy to fall into the perfection trap, I've done it very so often myself, unfortunately. 😕 So, I wholeheartedly agree that minimalism can be a means, but not an end in itself. It's all about what gives you joy in life! ❤️
Besides, we change in life and that's a good thing. What was once useful can become a hindrance as we develop. No need to stay in a place that doesn't fit anymore. Set off to new shores! And stay true to yourself, not a label, not an image! 🥰
I think that is right. I have long hoped you would ditch labels invented by others and create your own. I see that happening and I love your labels. I would only add one - thinker x
I've never been a strict minimalist. For the last decade or so, I've called myself an "aspiring minimalist". To me, this means assessing the things I keep in my life. This isn't limited to just physical items, but also the content I choose to spend my time with. I'm happy to include your substack among that content. Kate (from the comments) has a mantra I agree with. Things must have a home. If there is no room, then something must go. However, I have my proclivities and make allowances for these things. For instance, I have 27 pairs of socks and more flatware than my partner and I could ever use. But they have a home and I delight in seeing them every time I open that drawer. Minimalism, to me, is maximizing the room in my head for the things that make me happy.
I'm glad you said this. While I think unnecessary clutter detracts and distracts us from living a productive life, I think discarding useful items (even if I only use it once a year) or family treasures and mementos is insanity.
My focus is and will forever be - protecting the environment and reducing my footprint. THAT alone will knock us into minimalism without even trying. The important thing I focus on is the world I'll be leaving my kids...and, their kids...and everyone else's kids. I focus on my consumption and do my best to make only a tiny footprint. But, I'm not fanatical. I eat out occasionally. I live in rural Kentucky where there isn't any mass transit AT ALL. So, I drive places. But, I have a tiny car that is light on gas. I work from home. We all should just focus on doing the best we can in our own life.
What a fantastic reflection on something that used to work, and now works differently! I went so hard into the minimalist mindset a few years ago that I not only binged things I owned constantly, but this also kept me from ever purchasing simple things I could actually use (like a muffin tin, sweatpants, or pens). This really served my while living in a converted school bus, but it went to far into the shadow side of holding my back from enjoying things for their beauty. Beauty for beauty’s sake. Also, happy almost birthday! I’m turning 35 this week. (Aren’t 30s just the best?!)
"For me, this looks like reading a book in a café, just because I can. Investing in quality time with loved ones. And going on countless adventures in nature, which has been made even easier now I’ve fulfilled my dream of owning my very own camper-van" - Molly, I think we may be soul sisters, as I approach my 32nd birthday this is what my life looks like too, and I couldn't be happier. Thank you for this lovely post!
I really appreciate these reflections, Molly! I used to want to aspire to be a minimalist too, and I got taken in by the white walls and grey/beige aesthetic, and then I realised how much it was making me miserable to have no colour in my life. My home is now full of colour but I still focus on the important principles of not owning too much but also not being super strict on myself! I think it's great that we've all got the space to change our minds about these things 😊
I am also grateful to minimalism for giving me more freedom and free time. Furthermore, the environment needs more detached people because global warming is an undeniable truth. For me, detachment works well, having books and time to read is enough. Hugs.
At 77 and of the opposite gender I have gone through a life that has passed too quickly always,I think, compiling with the thinking of the time,yet not quite being able to totally comply, being a traditional Yorkshire man with deep pockets. Yet still with only a few lasting hobbies I found so much junk that I'd accumulated when forced to downside. Now I 've started to fall into the same trap again. It felt good for a time to have nowt but that's not living. Strike the balance as you seem to have done. Remember life is not a rehearsal and it goes so quickly. So enjoy your walks with your dog, In rented property I cannot have a canine companion, one joy I had throughout my previous life. But now I am rising again as The Yorkshire Fenix(Old English spelling). Good luck in your life, I wish for you. Call in to see me if you get into my neck of the woods in Derbyshire in the Foothills of the South Pennines.
A really interesting read. I sense the purpose minimalism had for you as you transitioned from one phase of life to another . I feel that is perfection on its own
This is an interesting reflection. I always strive to be more minimalist but never seem to be able to stop the ever accumulating things in my dwelling. I am, though, a minimalist traveler, backpacking was a good training.
My mantra is also to use what I have as long as I can, to buy anything new if there is a real need, and where possible remove/give away what are already out of use.
Bless you Molly. To honour the addiction of the "rules" and then to toss them out the window. Thank you for sharing that because it can be really tricky to be boxed into something and not know how to leave it despite it being "What one wants".
You are very inspiring Molly.. Thank you for living a life that EMPOWERS and GIVES JOY while at the same time is a live that you are passionate about.
You are truly a beautiful gem, Molly. Thank you. 💖
Like you, minimalism has been an incredibly helpful tool that’s allowed me to declutter all the excess that weighed me down both literally and figuratively. Many of the items I’ve now released had carried expectations and unfulfilled, or now unwanted, dreams. Getting rid of those items has freed me to move forward, embracing who I am now and celebrating my life guilt-free. That said, I was never interested in molding myself to the “ideal minimalist.” I don’t look good in neutrals and I love hanging art on my walls. But that, I feel, is the true point of minimalism - to let go of the things that don’t bring you joy and are holding you back, while selectively choosing to surround yourself solely with the things that make you happy. Like everything in life, it’s a unique balance that only works when you are true to what matters most to you. I’m glad you’re finding your balance and joy in this next phase of your journey!
I agree that "minimalism is a tool, not a personality trait", and that a clean interior of white walls does not make a minimalist. However, like you, I have found peace in having less stuff to deal with. Fewer belongings to manage means you have less waste. You don't buy things you don't need or waste time looking for things you think you have - and it reduces your cleaning time!
My new mantra is that everything must have a home. If I buy more clothes than fit in my wardrobe, then I need to get rid of some. If I have so much in my bathroom cabinets that it is hard to find anything, then I need a clear out. I also find having a 'not sure if I need this' box is a great half-way stage before taking it to the charity shop.
I love that mantra! I use it to and it really works :)
Love this Mantra!! Thanks for sharing, what a gem.
I think the most important thing is to be constantly reflective. I am in my sixties and have embraced living a simpler life after a leaving a very stressful career. This means I have hugely decluttered but still have a full house, but the things I have are either beautiful or useful. I admire the way you plan and even plan your reading, I smile when I see the tabs in your books, and that is just who you are. I’ve learned to really ease up and in the words of the famous poet, I now have the time to sit and stare, and I love it. Take care x
I love this, thank you for sharing! :)
It's so easy to fall into the perfection trap, I've done it very so often myself, unfortunately. 😕 So, I wholeheartedly agree that minimalism can be a means, but not an end in itself. It's all about what gives you joy in life! ❤️
Besides, we change in life and that's a good thing. What was once useful can become a hindrance as we develop. No need to stay in a place that doesn't fit anymore. Set off to new shores! And stay true to yourself, not a label, not an image! 🥰
All the best! ❤️
So true!
I think that is right. I have long hoped you would ditch labels invented by others and create your own. I see that happening and I love your labels. I would only add one - thinker x
That is a good one!
I've never been a strict minimalist. For the last decade or so, I've called myself an "aspiring minimalist". To me, this means assessing the things I keep in my life. This isn't limited to just physical items, but also the content I choose to spend my time with. I'm happy to include your substack among that content. Kate (from the comments) has a mantra I agree with. Things must have a home. If there is no room, then something must go. However, I have my proclivities and make allowances for these things. For instance, I have 27 pairs of socks and more flatware than my partner and I could ever use. But they have a home and I delight in seeing them every time I open that drawer. Minimalism, to me, is maximizing the room in my head for the things that make me happy.
This makes so much sense. And I also love my sock collection!
I'm glad you said this. While I think unnecessary clutter detracts and distracts us from living a productive life, I think discarding useful items (even if I only use it once a year) or family treasures and mementos is insanity.
My focus is and will forever be - protecting the environment and reducing my footprint. THAT alone will knock us into minimalism without even trying. The important thing I focus on is the world I'll be leaving my kids...and, their kids...and everyone else's kids. I focus on my consumption and do my best to make only a tiny footprint. But, I'm not fanatical. I eat out occasionally. I live in rural Kentucky where there isn't any mass transit AT ALL. So, I drive places. But, I have a tiny car that is light on gas. I work from home. We all should just focus on doing the best we can in our own life.
I so agree :)
What a fantastic reflection on something that used to work, and now works differently! I went so hard into the minimalist mindset a few years ago that I not only binged things I owned constantly, but this also kept me from ever purchasing simple things I could actually use (like a muffin tin, sweatpants, or pens). This really served my while living in a converted school bus, but it went to far into the shadow side of holding my back from enjoying things for their beauty. Beauty for beauty’s sake. Also, happy almost birthday! I’m turning 35 this week. (Aren’t 30s just the best?!)
I can so relate, I was the same with a muffin tin for a long time! 😅 I love being in my 30s!
"For me, this looks like reading a book in a café, just because I can. Investing in quality time with loved ones. And going on countless adventures in nature, which has been made even easier now I’ve fulfilled my dream of owning my very own camper-van" - Molly, I think we may be soul sisters, as I approach my 32nd birthday this is what my life looks like too, and I couldn't be happier. Thank you for this lovely post!
Aw how lovely!
I really appreciate these reflections, Molly! I used to want to aspire to be a minimalist too, and I got taken in by the white walls and grey/beige aesthetic, and then I realised how much it was making me miserable to have no colour in my life. My home is now full of colour but I still focus on the important principles of not owning too much but also not being super strict on myself! I think it's great that we've all got the space to change our minds about these things 😊
So true, we are always evolving! Thank you for sharing Leah :)
Happy birthday Molly❤️. Loved reading your take on minimalism and it’s very apt.
Thank you Savita!
I am also grateful to minimalism for giving me more freedom and free time. Furthermore, the environment needs more detached people because global warming is an undeniable truth. For me, detachment works well, having books and time to read is enough. Hugs.
Yes! Time is so precious :)
At 77 and of the opposite gender I have gone through a life that has passed too quickly always,I think, compiling with the thinking of the time,yet not quite being able to totally comply, being a traditional Yorkshire man with deep pockets. Yet still with only a few lasting hobbies I found so much junk that I'd accumulated when forced to downside. Now I 've started to fall into the same trap again. It felt good for a time to have nowt but that's not living. Strike the balance as you seem to have done. Remember life is not a rehearsal and it goes so quickly. So enjoy your walks with your dog, In rented property I cannot have a canine companion, one joy I had throughout my previous life. But now I am rising again as The Yorkshire Fenix(Old English spelling). Good luck in your life, I wish for you. Call in to see me if you get into my neck of the woods in Derbyshire in the Foothills of the South Pennines.
Thank you for sharing! :)
A really interesting read. I sense the purpose minimalism had for you as you transitioned from one phase of life to another . I feel that is perfection on its own
So true :)
This is an interesting reflection. I always strive to be more minimalist but never seem to be able to stop the ever accumulating things in my dwelling. I am, though, a minimalist traveler, backpacking was a good training.
My mantra is also to use what I have as long as I can, to buy anything new if there is a real need, and where possible remove/give away what are already out of use.
That is a good mantra! :)
Bless you Molly. To honour the addiction of the "rules" and then to toss them out the window. Thank you for sharing that because it can be really tricky to be boxed into something and not know how to leave it despite it being "What one wants".
You are very inspiring Molly.. Thank you for living a life that EMPOWERS and GIVES JOY while at the same time is a live that you are passionate about.
You are truly a beautiful gem, Molly. Thank you. 💖
Thank you for your kind comment lovely :)
Like you, minimalism has been an incredibly helpful tool that’s allowed me to declutter all the excess that weighed me down both literally and figuratively. Many of the items I’ve now released had carried expectations and unfulfilled, or now unwanted, dreams. Getting rid of those items has freed me to move forward, embracing who I am now and celebrating my life guilt-free. That said, I was never interested in molding myself to the “ideal minimalist.” I don’t look good in neutrals and I love hanging art on my walls. But that, I feel, is the true point of minimalism - to let go of the things that don’t bring you joy and are holding you back, while selectively choosing to surround yourself solely with the things that make you happy. Like everything in life, it’s a unique balance that only works when you are true to what matters most to you. I’m glad you’re finding your balance and joy in this next phase of your journey!
So interesting to hear your experience Alicia, thank you for sharing!