Picture this: a clutter-free home, a simplified wardrobe, and a life filled with only the things that truly matter. Sounds pretty nice, right? Minimalist living can help you achieve just that.
At its core, minimalism is about living intentionally and being mindful of the things you bring into your life. It’s about living with less, but getting more value out of what you have.
Minimalism isn’t just about paring down your belongings either. It’s about simplifying all aspects of your life – from your routines to your relationships. Today, however, we’ll be focusing on how to live with less stuff.
Whether you’re a minimalist beginner or looking to refine your approach, here are 25 essential tips for living with less.
25 Essential Tips for Living With Less (Stuff)
Minimalist living is about finding greater value in your possessions by intentionally living with less. Rather than being consumed by the endless pursuit of more stuff, you’ll cultivate a deeper appreciation for what you already have. By doing so, you will unlock a sense of freedom and fulfillment that can’t be found in the relentless pursuit of more.
As sweet as this sounds, it’s not always easy.
With the constant bombardment of advertisements and societal pressure to accumulate more things, it’s easy to find yourself owning more than you need. That’s why it’s important to regularly check in with yourself to make sure that you’re living in alignment with your values and goals.
Here’s how to start.
1. Focus on Not Accumulating More, First
When you first embark on your minimalist journey, it can be tempting to grab a garbage bag and start tossing things out. But this approach misses the mark.
Minimalism is not just about getting rid of things; it’s about not accumulating more in the first place. By being mindful of your shopping and collecting habits, you will avoid falling back into old patterns after you’ve decluttered.
Think of it this way: if you have a leaky bucket, it doesn’t make sense to keep filling it up with more water. You need to patch up the holes first. Similarly, if you want to simplify your life and pare down your possessions, you need to address the root of the problem: your shopping and collecting habits.
So before you start packing up those garbage bags, take a moment to reflect on your relationship with stuff and make a commitment to not accumulate more.
2. Find What is Sustainable for You
Minimalism is often portrayed as a competition to own as little as possible. While the idea of owning fewer things can be appealing, it’s not sustainable if you’re simply getting rid of things without considering their value and purpose in your life. That’s why it’s important to focus on finding what is sustainable for you.
What does sustainability look like in the context of minimalist living? It means taking a thoughtful and intentional approach to your possessions. Instead of just getting rid of things for the sake of owning less, you should ask yourself why you’re holding onto certain items and whether they add value to your life. If you find that you’re constantly getting rid of things and then re-buying them later, it’s a sign that your approach to minimalism isn’t sustainable.
By letting go of the notion that minimalism is about owning as little as possible, you can create a minimalist lifestyle that feels both fulfilling and manageable long term. In fact, over the years, I’ve had to change my approach to minimalism. Click here to learn why.
3. When in Doubt, Throw it Out Wait it Out
When it comes to minimalist living, one of the biggest challenges is deciding what to keep and what to let go of. It can be tempting to get rid of things impulsively, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed by clutter. But when in doubt, don’t throw it out – wait it out!
If you’re on the fence about whether to get rid of something, don’t make an impulsive decision to toss it. Instead, set it aside and give yourself some time to think it over. In most cases, by keeping the item out of sight, it’ll be out of mind too. If after a month, you find that you haven’t thought about it at all, then it’s probably safe to let it go. But if you find yourself needing it, you’ll be glad you kept it.
Taking the time to carefully consider whether to get rid of something that you’re on the fence about will help you avoid the cycle of buying and decluttering that can be both wasteful and overwhelming. So next time you’re debating whether to get rid of something, remember that it’s okay to wait it out and make a thoughtful, sustainable decision.
4. Always Calculate the True Cost
Living with less stuff isn’t just about decluttering your home – it’s also about being mindful of the things you bring into your life. One of the most important tips for minimalist living is to always calculate the true cost of the items you’re considering buying.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying something new, but it’s important to take a step back and consider the true cost – both in terms of your money and time.
Before making a purchase, take a moment to think about how long it took you to earn the money you plan to spend. Was it a few hours of work? A full day? A week? Then consider what else you could have done with that time instead. Maybe you could have spent the afternoon with friends, taken a class, or pursued a hobby you love.
By calculating the true cost of the items you buy, you can ensure that you’re spending your time and money in a way that is aligned with your values and priorities. Maybe that $60 blouse is worth it to you, or maybe you’d rather spend that money on experiences or savings for the future.
5. Identify Your Needs vs. Wants
When it comes to minimalist living, one of the most important things you can do is identify your needs vs your wants. We all have things that we want – whether it’s the latest gadget or a trendy new piece of clothing. But when it comes down to it, what do we actually need to live a happy, fulfilling life?
Identifying your needs vs wants is key to creating a sustainable minimalist lifestyle. Take a moment to really think about what you need in your life to be happy and fulfilled. Do you really need that new pair of shoes, or do the ones you already have suffice? Do you need to upgrade your phone every year, or could you make do with a slightly older model?
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that we need more things to be happy, but the truth is that most of us can live with far less than we think. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it is something that will truly add value to your life. By doing so, you’ll be able to focus on the things that truly matter to you, and let go of the rest.
6. Let Go of Guilt
Living a minimalist lifestyle is about letting go of the things that no longer serve you. This includes gifts from loved ones that you wouldn’t have bought yourself, items you’ve purchased but never used, or things that you once treasured but no longer have a use for. But letting go of these items can be difficult, especially when you feel guilty for not using or appreciating them.
As hard as it may sound, in order to live with less, you’ll need to let go of that guilt. Remember that sometimes the purpose of a gift is simply to be given. Your loved one gave you the gift in question to show you that they care about you, not to guilt you into holding onto that gift forever.
Similarly, sometimes the purpose of acquiring an item is to teach you that you didn’t actually need it in the first place. Maybe you purchased a kitchen gadget that you thought would make cooking easier, only to realize that it’s been collecting dust in the back of the cabinet for months. By acknowledging that you don’t need the item and letting go of any guilt associated with it, you can free yourself from the burden of clutter and create space for the things that truly matter.
So, if you’re struggling to let go of possessions that no longer serve you, remember to let go of guilt as well.
7. Learn What Your ‘Gateway Purchases’ Are
Have you ever made a purchase and found yourself quickly wanting more of the same thing? This is what’s known as a gateway purchase, and it’s a common pitfall for those looking to live a minimalist lifestyle. Maybe for you, it’s home decor. You know that if you buy one piece of home decor, you’ll want to get another piece to match it. Or maybe it’s clothing – you buy a new shirt and suddenly you’re shopping for an entire new outfit.
By identifying your gateway purchases, you can learn to be more mindful of your spending habits and avoid falling into these patterns.
8. Notice Your Triggers
In order to live with less, you must pay attention to why you are acquiring more in the first place. One way to achieve this is to notice your triggers – the things that make you feel like you need to buy more stuff.
For some people, it might be a stressful day at work that leads to online shopping. For others, it might be a desire to keep up with the latest trends or to impress others.
By recognizing your triggers, you can take steps to avoid them. Maybe you decide to avoid certain stores or unsubscribe from marketing emails that tempt you with deals and promotions. Or maybe you set a strict budget for yourself and commit to sticking to it. Whatever approach you take, the key is to be mindful about your purchases. Doing so will allow you take control of your shopping habits and make more intentional choices about what you bring into your life.
9. Stop Replacing
One of the most insidious aspects of our consumer culture is the idea that we always need the newest and best thing. The latest phone, the trendiest clothes, the most high-tech gadgets.
It’s easy to get caught up in this cycle of constant replacement, but it’s important to recognize that it’s ultimately a futile pursuit. No matter how much stuff you buy, there will always be something newer and better just around the corner.
By letting go of this need to constantly replace, you can free yourself from the stress and expense of always trying to keep up with the latest trends. You can learn to appreciate the things you already have by using them for as long as possible before replacing them.
So next time you feel the urge to upgrade your phone, take a moment to consider whether you can make do with what you already have.
10. Let Go of Things That Don’t Serve a Unique Purpose
Letting go of things that don’t serve a unique purpose is essential if you want to live with less stuff. Take the example of a toaster. Sure it’s convenient, but it only serves one purpose – toasting bread. And if you have an oven with a broil function, you can easily toast your bread without the need for a separate appliance taking up counter space. Not to mention the added bonus of no more crumbs to clean up!
The same principle applies to other items as well. Do you really need that fancy avocado slicer when a simple knife will do the trick? Do you need a separate blender and food processor when a high-quality blender can do both? By letting go of items that don’t serve a unique purpose, you will free up valuable space in your home.
11. Set Realistic and Actionable Goals
Setting realistic and actionable goals is key to achieving success in any area of life, including living with less stuff. Rather than setting lofty, abstract goals like “become a minimalist” or “shop less,” it’s important to break down your goals into manageable steps that are actually achievable. For example, if you want to declutter your wardrobe, don’t just aim to get rid of a few items here and there. Instead, set a goal like to get rid of 10 items per week for the next month. This makes your goal much more tangible and gives you a clear deadline to work towards.
Another benefit of setting realistic and actionable goals is that it helps you stay motivated. When you have a specific goal in mind, it’s easier to see the progress you’re making and stay motivated to keep going. You can track your progress along the way and celebrate your successes as you reach each milestone. This can be incredibly empowering and help you develop a positive mindset around living with less.
12. Always Quantify an Item’s Usefulness
It’s easy to accumulate things without even realizing it, but it can be hard to let them go. Quantifying an item’s usefulness can help.
Ask yourself, how often do I actually use this item? If the answer is once in a blue moon, it may be time to get rid of it.
Maybe it’s an old kitchen gadget that you’ve only used once or a sweater that you haven’t worn in years. These items may have been useful at one point, but if they no longer serve a purpose in your life, it’s time to say goodbye.
By quantifying an item’s usefulness, you can make more intentional decisions about what to keep in your life. When you have a clear idea of how often you use an item, it’s easier to decide whether it’s worth holding onto or not. So next time you’re considering buying or holding onto something, ask yourself, “How often will I actually use this?” The answer can help you live a more minimal and intentional life.
13. Remember That Some Things Cost Way More When You Hold Onto Them
When you shell out a significant chunk of cash on something, it can be tough to admit that it’s just not working out anymore. Maybe it’s taking up valuable space in your closet, or it’s collecting dust in your garage. By holding onto these items, you may actually be spending more money in the long run.
Think about that expensive bike you bought a few years back with the intention of taking up cycling as a new hobby. But as it turns out, you only used it a handful of times. Not only did you spend a lot of money on the bike itself, but you also invested in accessories, maintenance, and storage solutions that all add up. By letting go of the bike, you’re potentially saving yourself from unnecessary future expenses.
14. Recognize the Difference Between a Minimalist Aesthetic and a Minimalist Lifestyle
The minimalist aesthetic is all about clean lines, neutral colors, and simple shapes. It’s pleasing to the eye and can make a space feel calm and serene. But just because you have a minimalist aesthetic doesn’t necessarily mean you’re living a minimalist lifestyle. You might have a home that looks like it belongs in a design magazine, but inside your cabinets and closets, you’re hoarding all sorts of unnecessary things.
The problem with getting caught up in the minimalist aesthetic is that it can become more about the appearance of minimalism than the essence of it. It can lead to a never-ending pursuit of the perfect minimalist look, which can actually be counterproductive to the minimalist lifestyle. It’s important to remember that true minimalist living isn’t about having a perfect Instagram-worthy space, but rather about finding joy and freedom in a simpler way of life.
15. Don’t Obsess
When it comes to minimalism, it’s easy to get caught up in the details. How many pairs of pants should you own? How often should you declutter? These questions can quickly turn into obsessions that take away from the true goal of minimalism: living with intention and purpose. I know this because I’ve been there.
When I first started my minimalist journey, I spent countless hours scouring Reddit sub-forums for advice on how to live with less stuff. But the more I read, the more confused and overwhelmed I became.
One day, it hit me. The whole point of minimalism is to simplify your life, not complicate it with rules and restrictions. I realized that it’s not about how many items I own or how often I declutter. It’s about creating a life that aligns with my values and goals.
So, I stopped obsessing over the details and started focusing on what truly mattered to me. I kept the furniture that I needed and held onto my favorite pair of jeans. And you know what? I felt more free and fulfilled than ever before.
So, if you’re just starting your minimalist journey, remember this: don’t get bogged down by the details. Instead, focus on what matters most to you and let that guide your decisions.
16. Let Go Of Your Attachment
When you let go of your attachment to things, you can begin to see them for what they truly are.
Our things are not a reflection of our personalities or achievements. They are simply objects that we have chosen to keep in our lives. That fancy bag that you bought yourself to symbolize your first big girl job doesn’t have your achievement sewn into it. It’s simply a material object that served a temporary purpose in your life.
So, the next time you find yourself struggling to let go of an item, try to detach from the emotional connection you have formed to it. Remember that it is just a thing, and its value should not be tied to your sense of self-worth or identity. By doing so, you will be one step closer to living a minimalist lifestyle and enjoying the freedom and clarity that comes with it.
17. Be An Outfit Repeater
I may have gasped at the idea of being an outfit repeater in the past, but in the world of minimalism, it’s actually celebrated.
Being an outfit repeater simply means wearing the same outfits more than once. This may seem boring, but it’s actually a freeing experience. By repeating outfits, you can focus on quality over quantity. You can invest in timeless pieces that you truly love and that will last you a long time, instead of constantly buying cheap, trendy clothes that will fall apart after a few wears. Plus you can save time and energy by not having to constantly think about what to wear. And let’s be real, no one is paying attention to whether or not you wore the same outfit last week!
18. Notice Whether You Are Holding Onto Things Because You Think You Should
Do you ever find yourself holding onto things simply because you think you should? I sure do.
When I moved to Washington, everyone told me that rain boots were a must-have for the Pacific Northwest. So, I went out and bought a pair. But after a year of living here, I realized that I hardly ever wear them. Instead, I wear my water-repellent boots that get the job done just fine. It was hard to let go of my rain boots because I kept telling myself I should have them just in case, but in reality, I never used them.
The key to living a minimalist lifestyle is to let go of the things that don’t serve a purpose in your life, even if they seem practical. It’s important to recognize when you’re holding onto something simply because you think you should. Letting go of these items will make room for the things that are actually practical in your life.
19. Get Creative, Repurpose Your Items
Repurposing the items you already own is a great way to reduce clutter in your home. Let me explain.
Ditch your bath mat and use a small hand towel instead. Not only will it serve the same purpose, but it’s also more versatile. When it’s not being a bath mat, it can be used for other things.
Another example is repurposing the same item for different activities. When I bought a ski helmet, I thought I would only use it skiing. However, I found that it’s actually my favorite thing to wear when I go biking in the winter. Instead of wearing bulky ear-warmers under my helmet, I got rid of them altogether and now use my ski helmet for winter biking. It’s a simple way to repurpose something I already owned.
So if you want to avoid cluttering your home with unnecessary items, challenge yourself to make the most out of every item you own!
20. Take Better Care of Your Things
Living with less isn’t just about decluttering. It’s also about taking care of the things you have so they can last longer and serve you better. Instead of treating your possessions as disposable, start treating them as valuable assets that you want to preserve for as long as possible.
Doing so may take a little extra effort, but it can be a rewarding and satisfying part of minimalist living.
When you invest time and effort into maintaining your possessions, you create a stronger connection with them. It’s like developing a friendship with your things. You start to appreciate them more and take pleasure in their longevity.
So hand wash your delicates, store your gear properly and be gentle on your glassware. The longer your things last, the less you’ll need to own.
21. Resist Trends
Let’s face it, following trends can be exhausting. Every season there’s a new “must-have” gadget that promises to change your life. But do you really need it? No!
By constantly chasing after the latest trends, you’re only adding more clutter to your life. Instead, invest in high-quality items that will stand the test of time, rather than disposable fads that will be outdated in a few months. When you resist trends, you give yourself permission to embrace your individuality. So don’t worry about keeping up with the Kardashians, focus on living your best minimalist life.
22. Avoid Sales and Discounts
Ah, the siren call of a good sale. It’s tempting to buy something just because it’s discounted, even if you don’t really need it. But let me tell you, avoiding sales and discounts is key to living with less.
Think about it – buying something just because it’s discounted isn’t actually saving you money. Let me explain.
If you buy something just because it’s discounted from $50 to $25, you’re not actually saving $25. You’re actually losing $25 because you’re buying something you didn’t actually need or want.
So next time you’re tempted to buy something just because it’s on sale, remember this. If you wouldn’t buy that item full price, don’t buy it at all.
23. Invest in Quality Over Quantity
Investing in quality over quantity is key to minimalist living. Sure, buying the cheaper alternative may seem like a good idea at first, but you’ll soon find yourself replacing it when it breaks or wears out. Instead, invest in high-quality items that will last. Doing so will not only save you money in the long run, but it’ll also save valuable space in your home.
Think about it, would you rather have 10 cheap t-shirts that you need to replace every few months, or 2 high-quality ones that will last you for years? The latter option not only saves you money, but it also saves you the hassle of having to constantly replace items.
So, next time you’re tempted to buy the cheaper option, ask yourself if it’s really worth it in the long run.
24. Declutter Regularly
Having a minimalist home is like maintaining a garden. You can’t just plant the seeds and expect them to grow on their own. You need to water them, weed them, and give them attention regularly. Maintaining a minimalist home requires regular attention too.
Now I’m not telling you to water your home, although it would be funny to see you try. This attention is actually in the form of regular decluttering. Regular decluttering may seem like a chore, but it’s really an opportunity to reflect on what truly matters to you and let go of the excess that’s holding you back.
The ‘one in one out rule’ is a great way to keep your possessions in check. The rule is simple. For every item you bring into your home, you must get rid of one its place. if you buy a new shirt, donate or sell an old one that you don’t wear anymore. It’s a simple yet effective way to prevent accumulation and keep your space clutter-free.
Keeping a donation box in your closet is another way to simplify the decluttering process. It makes it easy to regularly add items you no longer need, without having to search around for a place to donate them.
25. Stop Asking Yourself, ‘Am I a Minimalist Yet?’
As cheesy as it sounds, minimalism isn’t a destination, it’s a journey. If you’re constantly asking yourself if you’re a minimalist yet, you may be missing the point of minimalism altogether.
Minimalism isn’t about reaching some kind of finish line. It’s not about trying to fit all of your belongings into a single backpack or living in a completely empty home. It’s about living with less, so you can focus on what truly matters in your life.
Instead of asking yourself “am I a minimalist yet?” ask yourself “what small changes can I make today to simplify my life?” and trust that the rest will follow.
In Conclusion
Well, there you have it – 25 essential tips for living with less! If you’ve been holding onto that broken toaster from 1995, it’s time to let it go. And those clothes that haven’t seen the light of day since your high school prom? Donate them!
Living with less won’t just declutter your physical space. It’ll declutter your mind and your life as well. By holding onto (and buying) only the things that bring you joy, you can live a simpler, more intentional life.
Roslyn Wilson says
Excellent simple ideas to adopt
barefootminimalists says
Hi Roslyn! Thanks for reading 🙂
We repurposed 2-drawer, wood file cabinets as end tables in our living room. Less furniture; more useful.
Hi Linda! That’s such a great idea. I love creative storage solutions.