What Is Minimalism?

What is minimalism? Minimalism is defined as a design or style in which the simplest and fewest elements are used to create the maximum effect.

However, for me, it has become a lifestyle. It’s not really the design element that I have focused on. 

So what does minimalism mean to me?

Minimalism is being intentional about what is in my home. This does create a more simple design style because it is uncluttered. However, I have learned that minimalism does not mean that my home cannot be warm and welcoming. 

Minimalism allows me to focus on what is important. I surround myself with only the things I really love and enjoy. I have let the things go that I held on to “just in case” or because I just needed something to be in that space. Instead, I am intentional about what I own.

Minimalism allows me to be intentional on how I spend my money. Rather than buying things just because they are on sale, I would prefer to save my money until I find that piece that I know I will enjoy for a long time. 

Minimalism reaches further than just the things in your home, it will affect your time. When you become intentional about what you buy and what you keep in your home, you also will find you have more time to enjoy things because you have less to keep up with. Less to clean and pick up. 

I have also become more intentional with my time by cutting out the things that aren’t important. 

What is minimalism not? It is not a list of rules. I watched several videos and read articles where people suggested I get rid of all my dishes and only have one per person in my family. But that doesn’t work for me? I am intentional about welcoming people into my home. We enjoy having friends and family over for dinner. You can create your own rules about what is important to you. 

Minimalism does not mean that you can’t have collections. Sure, you can’t classify everything as a collection, that becomes clutter. But just open the cabinet above my coffee machine and you will find a collection of Starbucks coffee mugs. I have collected these from all over the world and they are special to me. Minimalism means I am intentional about my collections. 

So if the world minimalism scares you away, don’t let it! Minimalism is a beautiful lifestyle where you cut out all of the stuff that we are told we are supposed to own and find what really matters to you. It allows you freedom to express yourself by being intentional on what you display in your home and what you use your time to clean and take care of. 

What does minimalism mean to me? It means being intentional. Having focus and clarity. Freedom from clutter. 

This month we are going to be focusing on minimalism. What questions do you have? What would you like to hear more about? 

I know that minimalism has been a wonderful tool for me to find margin for the good things!