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Crash Course: Minimalism – Getting Started
Before we jump into the nitty gritty, let’s do a quick review (refer to Crash Course: Minimalism if need be). Minimalism is not about throwing all of your things away and living in a tent and peeing in the wilderness, it’s about living within your means, choosing to rid yourself of items and things that don’t bring you happiness and joy, refocusing and prioritizing what’s important in this life. It’s not an excuse for people who lack ambition or aren’t successful, it’s about thinking in simpler terms and not letting culture spoon feed you the belief that more stuff that you “need” is the key to your happiness. With that being said, let’s jump into the specifics!
Step 1: Why?
The first thing you have to do is decide why you’re choosing to live a minimalistic lifestyle. The reasons vary from person to person. Maybe you want to get out of debt. Maybe you’re tired of spending your Saturday mornings cleaning the house. Whatever it is, you need to make it personal and make it known. Write a list of reasons why and hang it up somewhere that you’ll be reminded of it on a regular basis. It helps keep you focused, determined, and reminds you why you’re doing this.
Need help finding a purpose? Consider watching Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things . Or consider reading some books like Minimalism: Live a Meaningful Life or The Joy of Less .
Step 2: Develop a Plan
Minimalism isn’t an overnight thing, it’s a process that can take a lot of time and can be daunting to begin. To start out, write down a list of a few things you want to accomplish by taking this on; think SMART (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time based) goals.
SMART Goals Link
These could include things like go through your closet, clean out the downstairs closet, organize files on your laptop, or read an enjoyable book for 15 minutes every night. Again, hang your list somewhere you will see it often so you can plan accordingly. Then once you finish your first list, you can write up another one. Remember to cross off the item once you’ve completed it. Physically marking off the project as done helps to improve your confidence and boost your mood along with an array of other health benefits.
Can’t think of where to begin? Don’t stress trying to recreate the wheel. Tons of people have done this before you and shared their journey. Consider checking out some blogs to help you develop your plan. Some of my favorites are Be More with Less and Becoming Minimal and The Minimalists .
Step 3: Do it
The third step is where a lot of people get lost. They like the idea of minimalism and they can think of stuff they’d like to do, but never actually take the time and effort to get the task done. This is why we started off small with your to do list. It’s much less daunting to say “I’m going to go through my shoes Wednesday night” than “I’m going to declutter my entire house this weekend.” Choosing to focus on one task that helps reach a larger goal is easier to swallow. So just do it. Write it on your calendar. Add it to your planner. Commit to conquering your first task on your list and actually do it. Need some accountability or help? Ask your spouse, a friend, a family member, your dog, and explain to them why you’re doing this, what it means to you, and how you need their help and guidance to accomplish it. If you’re honest and sincere, I highly doubt they’ll turn you down.
Tried asking people and ran out of option? There are Facebook groups , blogs (as mentioned above, or consider keeping up with mine to see how my journey unfolds!), and YouTube channels to help guide you.
Step 4: Keep at It
It’s important to note that minimalism is a lifestyle, meaning it takes constant thought, effort, and practice. It’s not a one-and-done kind of deal. You can start small and work towards the final goal.
Awesome Work Image Link
Once you complete your first list, keep making lists with projects to tackle. Once your home and life are where you feel you want them to be, then remember that when you’re out shopping and want to purchase that impulse buy item conveniently located at checkout, or when that $30 steak sounds good, but you know it’s not in the budget. Do you really need that new pair of $45 black shoes that look the same as your black flats at home? Minimalism should always have a seat in the back of your mind that helps you make final decisions on what’s best for you. When facing a purchasing decision, think about the cost of that product and if the worth of it is justified in your mind. But remember cost isn’t just monetary; it includes the space to store it, the effort to clean/maintain it, the gas it takes to transport it, the time it keeps your attention, etc. If at any point in the list you start to question the value, then maybe you don’t need that new item or to go on that expensive vacation. Don’t get me wrong, the goal isn’t to make your life no fun, it’s to help you make informed decisions. For example, one thing I will never give up is going out to eat. Some people think I’m crazy because it’s super expensive or utterly unhealthy, or whatever kind of view they may have. But to me, I’m okay paying $40 for my boyfriend and I to enjoy a delicious meal and spend quality time together. To me, that money, energy, time, effort, etc. is justified because it’s an enjoyable experience with people I care about.
More?
So that’s it! Here is your basic outline to getting started with minimalism. Keep your eyes open for some more blog posts about my personal journey and other helpful tips, resources, and products. Leave your thoughts and comments below!